The Class of 2003

Religious Education

Living the “New Evangelisation” at De La Salle

When in the 1980s Pope John Paul II announced a “New Evangelisation” for the Church to undertake, he inverted the established evangelistic paradigm. Whilst the Church’s activity in new missionary lands would continue, the focus now shifted from reaching out, to looking in. It was the re-evangelisation of predominantly Christian-populated countries, the Holy Father prophetically opined, that required new missionary vigour in order to restore faith and hope to a generation lost to secularism and the pursuit of pleasure for pleasure’s sake. The New Evangelisation takes place, not in foreign lands, but in our homes, schools and parishes. Acutely aware of its place in this task, De La Salle College endeavours to provide opportunities for students to hear the gospel and express their faith in new and exciting ways. To this end, students in Years 9 and 10 have participated in R.E. Reflection Days facilitated by Catholic Youth Ministry. In a dynamic program of drama, music, talks and small group discussions, a team of young people give witness to the great challenge and joy of living a Christian life. This witness is indispensable to achieving the Church’s evangelistic goals. Many young people today do not receive the Catholic tradition as “their own,” but as belonging to somebody else. In the parish, the Faith belongs to the priest and one’s parents; at school it belongs to the Brothers and teachers. The witness of other young people assists our students to embrace what they have received and take responsibility for living the truth of the Gospel.

Mr Ian Smith Religious Education Coordinator

Faith Development

For those who have studied in the area of Faith Development, the more one learns, the more difficult it is to say anything categorically. It is an important area, but a “grey” one. Young people change, grow and develop. To parents and teachers, that much is obvious. The key question is: “How does faith develop?” De La Salle College has a responsibility to the young people in its care and to the parents who entrust their children to us to provide opportunities for growth, for development. In that regard, the College is very successful. Many opportunities are provided – not all of them could be considered religious. Mission Action Day, Lasallian Service, St Vincent de Paul, and S.A.L.T. are a few of the opportunities that are provided that give the young men a chance to work for others and reflect on themselves and society. Another key plank in Faith Development is a sound religious education program, which is led ably by Mr Ian Smith and delivered by more than 30 staff across the year levels. Another important part of faith development is liturgy. This year the College was fortunate enough to have Fr Tiernan Doherty CP work with the students in the first semester, primarily at Tiverton, leading class Masses and the Sacrament of Penance. The Catholic faith is a sacramental one, so his ministry was invaluable. We have also had two whole school liturgies for Founder’s Day and the Social Justice Mass, as well as liturgies for Ash Wednesday and the Easter liturgies. Importantly, there are also the retreats at Years 11 and 12. Conducted in Term 1, they are a valuable means of Homeroom bonding, as well as an opportunity for the young men to reflect on their lives, as well as their relationship with God and others. Hopefully, the retreats can be a chance to hear God’s “still small voice” (1 Kings 19:12). Finally, it is important to acknowledge that all Faith Development happens in God’s time.

Mr Patrick Jurd Faith Development Coordinator