Formation for Mission

The Staff Induction Programme for new Lasallian educators was conducted in two sessions on 10 and 24 January 2025, with a total of 73 participants from the nine Lasallian institutions in Singapore. This one-day programme held at La Salle House aimed to familiarize new staff with the Lasallian mission, history, values, and pedagogy while fostering a sense of belonging within the wider Lasallian family.

The programme began with a warm welcome and breakfast, followed by an opening prayer led by Br. Nicholas Seet. The first session introduced participants to the Lasallian identity through ice-breakers and personal reflections on the core values of Faith, Service, and Community. A video presentation on Catholic Education in Singapore reinforced the deep-rooted Lasallian spirit and its impact on education.

Session two focused on the life and legacy of St. John Baptist de La Salle. Through storytelling and reflection facilitated by Br. Jorge  Gallardo de Alba (Run 1) and Br. Collin Wee (Run 2), participants gained insights into the historical and spiritual foundations of the Lasallian mission. Key works such as The Conduct of Christian Schools and Meditations for the Time of Retreat were introduced to help staff align their teaching philosophy with Lasallian principles.

The afternoon sessions explored the global Lasallian presence, the history of the Lasallian mission in Singapore, and the five core principles that guide Lasallian education. Interactive discussions allowed participants to reflect on their roles within this educational movement and consider how they could embody the Lasallian pedagogy of fraternity in their schools.

The programme concluded with a reflective paraliturgy, reinforcing the commitment to the Lasallian mission. The event successfully provided new staff with a strong foundation to embrace their roles as Lasallian educators.
Feedback from participants was positive, with many appreciating the opportunity to connect with fellow educators and deepen their understanding of the Lasallian mission. Follow-up sessions will further support their integration into the Lasallian community.

The Lasallian Formation Day (LFD) 2025 was successfully held on 21 February 2025 at St. Joseph’s Institution, bringing together 670 staff members from seven Lasallian schools. This annual event provided an opportunity for Lasallian staff to deepen their understanding of the Lasallian mission and strengthen their vocation as teachers committed to faith, service, and community.

The day began with a Mass for Catholic staff, followed by a communal breakfast, fostering fellowship among participants. The opening address, delivered by Mr Kenny Rebeira, chairman of the Christian Brothers School Board, centered on the theme “Lasallians as Pilgrims of Hope”,, emphasizing the role of educators in nurturing fraternity, compassion, and faith within their school communities.

Formation was at the heart of the event, with staff engaging in breakout sessions tailored to their years of experience. Newer educators explored the life and vision of St. John Baptist de La Salle, while more experienced staff reflected on the 12 Virtues of a Good Teacher and their application in contemporary education. Some groups examined the Lasallian mission's historical growth, while others discussed mentoring, fraternity in pedagogy, and sustaining Lasallian culture within schools. Off-site visits to places like the Botanical Gardens, MOE Heritage Centre, and the Bras Basah area added experiential depth to these discussions.

The sessions concluded with a consolidation, where key insights were shared, and educators reaffirmed their commitment to their vocation. The event concluded with a closing prayer, school rally, and a communal meal, reinforcing the spirit of unity and mission.

The annual Lasallian Formation Day  provided a vital space for educators to reflect on their roles, renew their passion, and carry forward the Lasallian mission with renewed purpose in their respective schools.

From 10 to 14 March 2025, the Brother-Formators’ Gathering took place in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Attending the gathering were Brothers Philip Bancha, John Ong, Iñigo Riola, and Moris Tang. Together, they spent these days in prayer, dialogue, and fraternity. Each day was marked by moments of prayer and reflection, with the Brothers gathering for morning prayers and evening Mass, as well as engaging in discussions on topics related to formation and vocation ministry.

This gathering provided an opportunity for Brothers involved in initial formation to step away from their daily responsibilities, reflect on their experiences, and share concerns. It was also a time to renew their spirit for the mission of accompanying young men in initial formation. Br. Philip shared: “Having a retreat or time away from the community allows me to rededicate myself to the Lord and restore my strength.”

The sessions throughout the week explored significant themes shaping formation today. One key discussion focused on the impact of trauma on candidates and communities. It highlighted how personal experiences influence the discernment process and how formators can help foster healing and resilience. Another session examined how to connect and relate with Generation Z, drawing insights from data on the values and perspectives of young people. The Brothers also reflected on the essential skills and qualities needed for religious life, particularly in living within a community. Group sharing provided space for meaningful exchanges and reflections on these topics.

Br. John shared: “The reading materials used for group sharing were very relevant to our formation and accompaniment ministry. They made us reflect on the kind of formands we have, the issues and concerns they are facing, and the kind of formators and accompaniment they need.” Br. Moris also reflected on the gathering: “During the sessions, I was able to hear different perspectives on accompanying and guiding our formands. I also had the opportunity to share and learn about the differences between the traditional formation approach and the formation process for Generation Z today.”

This gathering not only deepened the Brothers’ understanding of the evolving needs in formation but also renewed their commitment to their ministry. It reinforced the importance of ongoing formation for Brothers, particularly for formators, ensuring they are well-equipped to accompany young people on their vocational journey.

The LEAD Formation Coordinators Meeting happened last 7-8 March 2025 at the SJI Brothers Community in Singapore. The Formation Coordinators had the task to develop and design a Formation Road Map for the District.

The session opened with inspiration shared by Mr Kenny Rebeira, Chair of the Formation and Shared Mission Committee. Br Michael Valenzuela FSC was present on both days, providing inputs for our Formation Coordinators. 

The Formation Coordinators for each sector are the following: Br Nico Mariano FSC (Japan), Br Butch Alcudia FSC (Malaysia), Br Moris Thargyi FSC (Myanmar), Ms Brigitte Limbo and Ms Nicky Templo-Perez (Philippines), Mr Bernard Teo (Singapore), Br Philip Bancha FSC (Thailand) and Br Paolo Mata FSC (Hong Kong).

The group began with their online meetings in 2024. This is the first time they have gathered in person. The Formation Coordinators extend their heartfelt gratitude to Br Larry Humphrey FSC and the community in SJI for their warm and most generous accommodation.