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Courtesy Brother James Joost, FSC
Thirteen Brothers in various stages of initial formation in the Lasallian Region of North America (RELAN) gathered March 26–29 at the Alverna Center located on the Saint Teresa Campus of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota in Winona.
“Being together is a nice opportunity to be in community and share with my Brothers about ministry and life,” said Brother Roberto Martinez, FSC, from the District of San Francisco New Orleans.
The initial formation gathering centered around the topic of celibacy. Brother John Mark Falkenhain, OSB, from the Saint Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in Indiana presented and facilitated conversations over the weekend.
“The discussion initiated by Brother John Mark provided an opportunity to talk openly as a community about a topic that can be hard to talk about,” said Brother Roberto.
Brother Stephen Markham, FSC, organized the gathering and said the group had a wonderful time together. “The six postulants and seven temporary professed Brothers spoke highly of Brother John Mark and his input on the topic of celibacy,” Brother Stephen said.
Additionally, the Brothers had the opportunity to have discussions with five international Brothers currently studying at Saint Mary’s: Brothers Christian Diaz (Colombia), Miguel Mendoza (Peru), Pius Nsukula (Congo), Robertolingo Vargas Guerrero and Jose Antonio Vargas (Mexico). The Brothers discussed their formation and cultural experiences.
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Courtesy Brother James Joost, FSC
“I always get energized and my vocation is reaffirmed when I am afforded the opportunity to spend time with the other Brothers in initial formation,” said Brother Ryan Anderson, a postulant from the Midwest District.
The Brothers in initial formation will gather again in October at Mont La Salle in Napa, California. The gatherings, which happen twice a year, are opportunities for Brothers to connect on a Regional level to participate in formative experiences together, as well as build community with each other.
“I find that the deep bond we share as Brothers in Christ rejuvenates me and brings me great joy in my vocation and life as a Brother,” said Brother Ryan.[/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]