The Lasallian Partners, who were such a significant part of this experience, permitted us to realize how far we have already come over the past seven years in sharing the Lasallian mission and in strengthening the bonds of association so necessary for its future. The admirable commitment, often at great personal and family sacrifice, of numerous men and women in this immensely challenging work on behalf of the young and the poor in the fields of education, evangelization, and child care work inspires us. The presence of a mother and her child in our midst was a graced reminder of the many parents and guardians all around the world who have also forged with us a partnership on behalf of the education and formation of their children. To all of you who desire to identify yourselves more closely with Lasallian mission or spirituality Christians who seek to give concrete expression to your own baptismal consecration in the ministry of education, and members of other religions and persons of good will who share in the Lasallian mission we commit ourselves to take seriously your every effort at association. We are happy to report that the capitulants of the 43rd General Chapter have been audacious in the key decisions which they made.
New situations ask for new structures.
The formation of a Standing Committee of Brothers and Partners for the Lasallian Mission, the convocation of an International General Assembly of Brothers and Associates each having voice and vote prior to the 44th General Chapter, the promotion of new forms of collaboration and association among Brothers and Partners, the evaluation of all existing Lasallian works and the creation of new initiatives, and the clear and strong re-commitment of the Institute and Lasallian mission on behalf of the most fragile and vulnerable members of our societies are only a few of the bold initiatives which will sustain the momentum which helps the Lasallian family be an even more effective instrument of God and of the Church today. To achieve this, we are counting on you, the Lasallian Youth. We know that the reason for our vocation, in the words of our Founder, is to touch hearts and at the same time we feel that our hearts are touched by all of you. We are certain that with your creativity, drive and enthusiasm and by your commitment to the different youth movements and to the Volunteer program, you will help us reach the goals that the Chapter has proposed to us. From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank these young Brothers for the great hope in our future that they have inspired in us and desire to communicate to all of you, Brothers and Partners alike, how great is the confidence we have in our future and in the remarkable young Brothers with whom God continues to bless our Lasallian family.