In order to foster and enrich our Lasallian charism, we recognize the need to invite and encourage all members of Lasallian communities to associate for mission. We aim to ensure that each local ministry is supported by, and in turn, supports district, regional and international formation initiatives. (DENA Mission Assembly: Directional Statement)
Eatontown, NJ – The annual gathering of DENA Animators was held recently in Eatontown, NJ. The gathering began with a joint luncheon with the DENA Association for the Lasallian Mission Committee during which the two groups had an opportunity to discuss how together they work to support the Lasallian mission.
The Animator Workshop began with a presentation by Kathleen Kernich from Catholic Relief Services regarding the CRS-DENA Global High School Program. Six of our secondary schools have applied to be recognized as Global High Schools for the 2015-2016 school year.
The Workshop continued with opportunities for reflection and sharing on the role of the Lasallian Animator in DENA ministries. Workshop presentations included: The Lasallian Animator: Called and Sent (Maryann Donohue-Lynch), Social Media: Spread the Good News (Phil De Rita), DENA Directional Statements (Alan Weyland), Being a Lasallian–Catholic Community of Welcome in a Multi-faith World: A Conversation (Maryann Donohue-Lynch, facilitator) Best Practices that Inspire (Lynda Burlon- De La Salle “Oaklands; Brother Fred Mueller-La Salle Academy, Providence; Ted Frank-Bishop Loughlin Memorial HS, Brooklyn)
There was also time to plan for future events and consider how the role of the Lasallian Animator is evolving in our DENA ministries.
As one participant remarked “I look forward to this gathering every year as having the opportunity to meet with and share with my colleagues from other DENA ministries gives me the ‘shot in the arm’ I need to feel a part of this Lasallian family. I am grateful for this time of “together and by association.” The presentations were filled with information and practical examples of what I can do in my ministry. I am thankful to the Office for Mission and Ministry for providing this annual opportunity.”
Participating Ministries
- Saint John’s College HS, Washington DC
- Calvert Hall College HS, Towson MD
- De La Salle Collegiate HS, Warren MI
- CBA, Lincroft NJ
- Bishop Loughlin Memorial HS, Brooklyn, NY
- CBA, Albany NY
- La Salle School for Boys, Albany NY
- Saint Peter’s HS, Staten Island NY
- De La Salle College “Oaklands,” Toronto, ON
- La Salle University, Philadelphia PA
- St. Gabriel’s System, Philadelphia PA
- West Catholic Preparatory HS, Philadelphia PA
- La Salle Academy, Providence RI
- San Miguel School, Providence RI
- TIDES Family Service, Warwick RI
- Trinity HS, Manchester, NH
- Saint John Paul II Academy, Boca Raton FL