Memphis, TN – Christian Brothers in Initial Formation throughout the Lasallian Region of North America (RELAN) gathered in Memphis for their annual retreat, April 5-8, 2018. These young Brothers, in different stages of formation gather to learn more about the Brothers’ Institute, deepen their faith, and further commit to the Lasallian educational mission.
Hosted at Christian Brothers University, the young Brothers, including the Brother Novices, received plenty of insights and history of the Brothers’ mission in Memphis, and had opportunity to be together and by association in prayer and formation. During the weekend the Brothers had the opportunity to be together for the Founder’s feast day, April 7th.
On Friday, April 6, an all-school Founder’s Day Mass was held in the campus gymnasium of Christian Brothers High School in Memphis, celebrated by Msgr. John McArthur, AFSC, the school’s chaplain, assisted by Father Tony Romo, SVD and Deacon Henry Littleton, along with CBHS alumni priests and other visiting priests. The Brothers in Initial Formation were joined by many Brothers, most from the Midwest District, where Christian Brothers High and University reside.
During the Liturgy, the Brothers professed their annual promises or vows, determined by their stage in formation. Postulants and novices made promises. Temporary professed Brothers and Professed Brothers renewed their vows.
Our DENA Brothers included David Deradoorian, who serves St. Raymond High School in the Bronx, and Novices Paul Avvento and Steven Barbaro. Their singing of the Ecce Quam Bonum (Psalm 133) at the conclusion of the Mass was inspiring to the students, faculty, and guests of Christian Brother High.
For more details of the Mass at CBHS, visit their website >
Special thanks to Brother James Joost of the San Francisco New Orleans District for providing many of the photos you see here.
From Social Media:
Great to be with Brothers on Founders Day! Excited for Mass at CBHS this evening. @RichGalvin1 pic.twitter.com/Pm4vhWCWLD
— Paul Avvento (@pavvento) April 7, 2018