Brother Robert Schieler, FSC, Superior General, had quite a packed itinerary, visiting more than 20 ministries and Brothers’ communities throughout the District of Eastern North America as part of his Pastoral Visit to the Region! From November 6 through 20, Br. Robert traversed through 7 states and 2 countries, highlight being his keynote address at the District’s Association Celebration broadcast from La Salle University in Philadelphia on November 8th.

During his time in the District, accompanied by General Councilor Br. Timothy Coldwell, and our Brothers Visitor Dennis Lee, Lawrence Goyette, and Richard Galvin, Br. Robert met with Brothers, Lasallian Partners, donors and friends, Mission Executive and District Councils, Young Lasallian professionals, Lasallian Volunteers, and most importantly, Lasallian students. In receptions and Community meals, informal gatherings and formal meetings, Br. Robert shared his vision for the future of the mission, and listened to how the mission is being lived out here in DENA.

Right after his keynote address, Br. Robert met with La Salle students, faculty and staff representing different segments of university life. Br. Robert also sat in on the University’s annual poverty simulation at the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. The interactive exercise immerses students into role-playing capacities that give them a greater understanding of financial instability and prepare them to treat clients and patients who are living at or below the poverty line. “This University is committed to the local and international community,” Br. Robert said to La Salle’s nursing and health sciences students. “You not only learn, but you learn to give back. Our happiness is in giving back to others.”

In discussions with students, Br. Robert was able to hear how Lasallian education has an impact on individuals. “When living in my comfort zone, I am not living my faith,” said Mia, a Junior at La Salle Academy in Providence, during a sit down with the Superior General. She made it clear that her Lasallian education asks more of her. “I need to step out of that zone in order for my faith to be nourished and to grow.”

Life long Lasallian connections were present to Br. Robert during his visit. Bob Conway, Board member for La Salle School for Boys,  spoke on behalf of La Salle’s staff and administration at the reception. He reflected on why his connection and love for La Salle School as well as the Lasallian family is so strong. Mr. Conway reflected on the fact that he has held many titles in life,  including Mayor of Troy, Lasallian Leadership Institute graduate (along with Br. Robert), and La Salle Board member. “However,” he reflected, “the one I hold closest and dearest to my heart is that of being a Brothers’ Boy!” Mr. Conway credits his life’s successful journey to the care he received from the Brothers as a student and graduate of La Salle School.

Lasallian formation was a common theme during Br. Robert’s many visits. Questions of how more Lasallians can take part, and how formation should be looked at as a crucial part of leadership succession planning. At CBA Syracuse, Br. Robert met with teachers and staff who have graduated or are currently enrolled in Lasallian formation programs, and how it has changed their perspectives on the mission. “Attending the John Johnston Institute,” reflected Mr. Patrick Mullaney, Social Studies teacher, “has allowed me to become the Lasallian I wanted to be.”

Share at #SGinRELAN

During Brother Superior’s Pastoral visit, he will be accompanied by RELAN General Councillor Brother Timothy Coldwell FSC and one of our Brothers Visitor while at many of the ministries of DENA.

Pastoral Visit Priorities and Initiatives

• Direct service to the poor

• Creative expressions of the Lasallian mission

• Respond to the challenge “Beyond the Borders,” and exemplify a revitalized response to the Lasallian mission

Read This: General Councilor for RELAN, Brother Timothy Coldwell, shares his reflections on the Superior General’s Visit

About Brother Robert’s Pastoral Visit