If you have been around a Lasallian institution for a few years, then it is likely that you are already familiar with most of the acronyms, programs, and priorities of the Lasallian tradition of education. You should be able to recognize the resources that are provided for Newcomers, and you may now be interested in delving a little more deeply into Lasallian history, or pedagogy, or spirituality.
One way of revisiting the life of St. John Baptist de La Salle, the inspiration behind this educational movement -finding out his perspective on teachers, teaching, students, and schools – is to reach “Touching the Hearts of Students.” A larger, excellent biography is “The Work is Yours.” The recent Institute document on “Association” provides a wonderful introduction into the essentially collaborative nature of Lasallian ministry. And the Lasallian glossary will fill in the gaps about the meaning of esoteric Lasallian terms. The videos that you will appreciate include “I Am Lasallian” and the various Mission Videos that have been made, especially ones like “The De La Salle North Difference.” And, of course, there are the websites of the District and of the Region that are worth exploring more thoroughly, especially in terms of programs like the Buttimer Institute and Huether. For a more comprehensive list of resources, go to the RESOURCE CATALOGUE and check off the “5+ EDUCATORS” box in the search options.
You will already know that these things are best processed with others, whether through casual conversation, faculty retreats, or District workshops. The more you enter into the process of real learning (AKA “Formation”), the greater the opportunity to understand, engage in, and enjoy the Lasallian Catholic educational experience.
Br. George Van Grieken, FSC – Workshop & Retreat Resources
Below are a set of resources that have been used for workshops and retreats provided by Br. George Van Grieken, FSC, and the Lasallian Resource Center in Napa, CA. They include sets of PDF handouts, Powerpoints, and other items that those who attended those workshops and retreats, or those who are interested in the same topic, may find helpful. As much as possible, proper attribution has been provided, and other internet references are cited.