Religion teachers, department chairs, campus ministers, and mission leaders from Lasallian ministries gathered for the 2026 Brother Luke Salm Religious Education Workshop, held November 1–3 at the Bon Secours Retreat and Conference Center in Marriottsville, Maryland.
Organized by the District of Eastern North America’s Office for Mission and Ministry, the annual workshop provided an opportunity for participants to exchange ideas, share teaching practices, and reflect on their shared commitment to Lasallian education and faith formation.
Convened by Brother Ernest J. Miller, FSC, this year’s gathering explored how Lasallian education can respond to the evolving needs of young people while remaining rooted in faith, justice, and the teachings of Saint John Baptist de La Salle.
A central highlight was the keynote presentation by Kevin Ahern, Ph.D., professor and chair of the Department of Religion and Philosophy at Manhattan University, who invited participants to reflect on the question, “Can Lasallian Education be More Human in the Age of AI?”
Drawing on Catholic social teaching and the Lasallian educational tradition, Ahern explored the opportunities and challenges presented by artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. His sessions encouraged educators to consider how technology influences teaching, learning, human relationships, and the formation of young people.
On November 2, participants continued these conversations through interactive workgroups and breakout sessions focusing on religious education and pastoral ministry.
Owen Schugsta and Michele Dimaira of La Salle College High School in Wyndmoor, Pennsylvania, led a session on “Creating Meaningful Learning Experiences in the Religion Classroom.” The presentation highlighted practical teaching strategies, creative classroom activities, and ways to encourage student engagement, reflection, and critical thinking while maintaining academic rigor.
In a parallel session for pastoral ministers, Justin Martineau of DENA’s Office for Mission and Ministry presented material from the Springtide Research Institute, providing an opportunity to reflect on the experiences and needs of young people in relation to faith formation and pastoral accompaniment.
Later that afternoon, Thomas Guro presented the Signum Fidei Series, highlighting educational resources that support the teaching of Lasallian history and heritage. His presentation included a preview of a developing video series exploring the life of Saint John Baptist de La Salle and its potential use in schools and formation programs.
The evening continued with a World Café session facilitated by Justin Martineau, bringing participants together for reflection and dialogue. The conversations encouraged participants to exchange perspectives on their shared responsibilities as educators, the importance of building community, and ways to strengthen relationships with students and colleagues.
On November 3, Antoine Béland presented “Living Lasallian Educational Evangelical Activity in Québec,” highlighting the Lasallian mission and educational initiatives in the region.
Jim Logan of DENA’s Office for Mission and Ministry followed with “In Association: DENA Notes and Observations,” contributing to the workshop’s continuing conversations on the shared Lasallian mission and association across ministries.
Throughout the three days, communal prayer, personal reflection, and fellowship provided space for participants to reconnect with their vocation as Lasallian educators and strengthen relationships with colleagues from across the District.
Participating schools included Calvert Hall College High School (MD), Central Catholic High School (PA), Christian Brothers Academy (NJ and NY), De La Salle College “Oaklands” (ON), La Salle Academy (NY), La Salle College High School (PA), Saint John’s College High School (DC), and Saint Raphael Academy (RI).
The workshop concluded with “Moving Forward Together” and a sending-forth prayer led by Brother Ernest J. Miller, FSC, inviting participants to carry the lessons and conversations of the gathering back to their respective ministries through their daily work with young people.
Watch the video highlights below for a closer look at the 2026 Brother Luke Salm Religious Education Workshop.
