Lasallian Association for Mission

Lasallian Association for Mission

Lasallian Association for mission is the result of a communion of people animated by the Lasallian Charism and committed to the educational service of the poor.” Association is a way of expressing how we belong to each other and the mission. This belonging implies a responsibility for the mission, ethos and charism. 

We recognise that association for mission is part of the Institute’s foundation when De La Salle joined with twelve Brothers to make a vow of association on June 6th, 1694. The Brothers vow of association is central to their vocation. Lasallian association for mission has developed over the centuries to include lay people who find a vocation in the Lasallian mission and charism. Association is as important now as it was in 1694. It is critical to mission survival that Brothers and committed Lasallian Partners work “Together and by Association” to ensure that the Lasallian ethos remains on the educational landscape in the countries of the District.

One of the greatest resources that the District has at its disposal is the calibre of lay women and men who are fully committed to the Lasallian mission and are living a Lasallian vocation.

This vocation is revealed to them by a process of association, whether named that or otherwise. This journey towards association includes an experience of mission, a connection with the story and history of our Founder, a willingness to attend and take seriously Lasallian formation, an openness to be of service in a greater capacity in the District and a developed understanding that their work and vocation supports the mission and charism beyond the confines of their school or pastoral centre. In the Institute’s understanding of association, they are de facto Associates.

There are a number of structures that foster association and provide a pathway for a sense of belonging, vocation and responsibility for mission. The District has been blessed with generous lay people who form committees and councils. These commitments can at times create a challenge and put stress on heavy workloads. There needs to be attention and sensitivity to this reality. Some examples of structures that can be used to build association are:

• Lasallian Animators (currently in place in Ireland and Malta, and in process in GB)

• Local Lasallian Animation Teams 

• District Executive Mission Council

• National Mission Councils

• Young Lasallian Council

Formation continues to be a place to call, invite and accompany people to a greater understanding of vocation and association. It should be noted that the investment in formation has been a valuable one. There is also a growing effort of formation for young people with programmes like the Lasallian Camp and Lasallian Leadership programmes.