A relatively new acronym has entered the Lasallian lexicon – VAT. It references a ministry’s Vocation Animation Team and finds it’s inspiration from the Institute’s Circular 475 and DENA’s most recent District Chapter. Representative from ten of our District’s secondary schools gathered at Christian Brothers Center in Narragansett, RI with Mr. Chris Swain, Director of Lasallian Formation Ministry for RELAN, and the staff of DENA’s Office of Vocation Ministry. Prayer, input, conversation, and planning came together to generate enthusiasm and creativity regarding the nurturing of a culture of vocation at the ministries represented by the group. The individual Brother from the Office of Vocation Ministry who is the liaison with a particular school will work with the local VAT members, and the school administration, to implement that school’s plans.

Sincere thanks to Brother Michael Shubnell and Ms. Cheryl Butler from the staff of Christian Brothers Center for their assistance and hospitality as well as their financial consideration that minimized the cost of the gathering. Gratitude is extended as well to Brother James Dries, Director, and the members of the CBC Community at Narragansett for their fraternal welcome.

The attendees came from Bishop Loughlin Memorial HS, Calvert Hall College HS, CBA-Syracuse, De La Salle College “Oaklands”, De La Salle Collegiate, La Salle Academy-NYC, La Salle Academy-Providence, La Salle Institute, St. Joseph’s Collegiate Institute, and Saint Peter’s Boys High School. (A family emergency prohibited the representative from CBA-Lincroft from being present.) Brothers Paul, Edward, and Peter will be in touch with representatives from the schools that were absent to brief them on new District initiatives and ways they can honor their Covenant agreement with DENA by collaborating with our Office of Vocation Ministry to grow vibrant Vocation Animation Teams.