Ministry Leaders conference strengthens Lasallian identity
Heads, Principals and Pastoral Centre Directors from across the District gathered to celebrate the theme of ‘All is Connected’ at the District Lasallian Ministry Leaders Conference 2025.
The event, which is one of the highlights on the District calendar, was hosted at the Clayton Dublin Airport Hotel on Thursday November 20th and Friday 21st, and over the course of two memorable days, Ministry leaders had the opportunity to renew acquaintances, learn about many initiatives, and to share experiences. The wonderful spirit helped strengthen the sense of community, Lasallian identity, and shared purpose.
The gathering opened with a moment of prayer and a welcome by Joseph Gilson inviting all to recognise how deeply ‘All is Connected’ in our Lasallian mission.
Day One brought all together in prayer, reflection and shared conversation. Guided by ‘All Is Connected’, the sessions invited all to recognise the ties that unite our communities, our work and our care for creation. All were grateful for each contribution, each insight, and each moment shared.
Examples of best practice were shared, and Melissa George, St Gregory’s Head Teacher, reflected on the importance of hearing about such initiatives including and emphasis of prayer spaces, growing the Lasallian family and how learn to understand the needs of others in a changing society.
One of the many highlights was the keynote address from Prof Paul Pace, that invited us to recognise how care for creation, sustainability and our Lasallian mission are deeply interwoven.
It proved to be an engaging, relevant and enlightening address that focused on our need to reflect on the integral ecological commitment we should have as Christians, as Lasallians, and as educators. Prof Pace reminded all that it is a challenge for everyone but it is very important to continue to reflect on the messages of Popes Francis and Leo, not only as schools and communities, but also personally, in order that we help create a better planet for the future.
In a short reflection, Stephen Cachia reminds us that our responsibility as educators extends beyond the classroom—towards forming communities that honour the dignity of our young people and the world they inherit. May this call to ecological commitment continue to shape our choices, our curriculum and our daily actions.
The conference was also an opportunity to pay tribute to two Principals who had retired in the past year, and special presentations were made by Brother Visitor Ben Hanlon as mark of appreciation to John Murphy (De La Salle College Macroom) and Jim McGee (Monastery NS Ardee).
Warm tributes were paid to both men, highlighting the significant contribution they made to their students and their efforts in keeping the Lasallian ethos alive in their school community.
