Eight Brothers Renew Vows

In a significant moment for the Pakistan Sector, eight Brothers have been approved to renew their vows of brotherhood. This decision was made during the District Council meeting on 22 June, marking a continued commitment to the Brothers’ spiritual journey and service. Each Brother brings unique experiences and perspectives to their vocation, collectively strengthening the Lasallian mission.

For the Brothers, renewing their vows is a profound act of reaffirming their dedication to the principles of association, stability, chastity, poverty and obedience. This spiritual commitment involves continuous soul-searching and discernment, ensuring they are aligned with their vocation and the mission of the Institute. Their decision to renew their vows reflects their ongoing commitment to their faith and community service.

Brothers Adan Malik, Nabeel Pius, Moon Gill, Taimoor Salvater, Zafar Iqbal, Qulb-e Noor, Jabran Bhatti and Sajawal Bhatti celebrated their commitment at the Pakistan Sector Retreat, where they pledged brotherhood for another year in a special vows ceremony.

The journey of each Brother reflects the diverse ways in which the Lasallian charism can be lived out. Their stories interweave to create a tapestry of faith, service and community that characterises the De La Salle Brothers.

Brother Adan Malik emphasises the importance of experiencing Christ's presence in practical ways. In his application, he states, "Encountering Jesus means coming face to face with the greatest friend I could ever imagine." Br Adan has studied key Institute texts, including the life and history of the Founder, the Rule and the conduct of the schools. His focus on Christ's friendship sets the tone for the personal relationships that each Brother develops in their spiritual journey.

This personal connection with Christ is echoed in the experience of Brother Nabeel Pius, who finds God's presence in his daily life, especially in his interactions with students. He shares, "When I get up, start my day with prayer going in the school and see my students, I experience God within my students, especially when I feel my students need my help and care." Br Nabeel's perspective highlights how the Brothers' vocation is lived out in their educational ministry.

The process of becoming a religious Brother often involves significant personal transformation. It includes stages such as Aspirancy, Postulancy and Novitiate, each designed to enrich faith, deepen spirituality and enhance readiness to serve. The Brothers are guided by experienced mentors throughout each stage and engage in theological studies, spiritual readings and community service.

The importance of community life in the Brothers' vocation is particularly highlighted by Brother Moon Gill, who values his community experiences, stating, "Living in the community has been a very unique learning channel." Brother Moon has found joy in serving others and following the founder's example. Brother Moon’s emphasis on community reflects a core aspect of the Lasallian way of life.

This sense of community and service is further articulated by Brother Taimoor Salvater, who reflects on the spirit of the Institute, saying, "The spirit of Faith, Service and Community make our life unique for the service of others." He has found inspiration in the founders' teachings and daily encounters with Jesus through prayer, illustrating how the Brothers' spiritual life informs service.

The theme of growth through ministry is further exemplified by Brother Zafar Iqbal, who expresses gratitude for his vocation and finds growth in his daily work. He reflects, "My ministry makes me grow every day in my vocation and accomplish all given responsibilities with the grace of God." Brother Zafar has also developed a positive attitude towards different cultures, mainly through his experience of living and working in a predominantly Muslim society. His experience underscores the Brothers' adaptability and openness to diverse contexts.

This openness to growth and formation is also evident in the journey of Brother Qulb-e Noor. He shares, "These expeditions of Formations have made me stronger and firm in my conviction, moral character and vocation." Br Qulb E-Noor has studied important Institute texts, including the Rule and the Declaration on the Lasallian Educational Mission, demonstrating the ongoing nature of the Brothers' formation.

The Lasallian tradition and its focus on education is particularly emphasised by Brother Jabran Bhatti, who views his role through this lens. He sees the finality of religious life as "to live a life that is dedicated to spiritual growth and service to others," with a particular focus on education and serving the marginalised. Brother Jabran's studies of key Institute texts have deepened his understanding of the Brothers' way of life and mission, showing how the Lasallian heritage continues to shape the Brothers' vocation today.

Lastly, Brother Sajawal Bhatti brings together many of these themes in his reflection on his journey. He emphasises the role of the Holy Spirit and God's love, saying, "The work of the Holy Spirit and the love of God in my religious journey has been helping me in my Christian and Lasallian commitment to continuously love God and to be a servant of God."

Brother Sajawal's active involvement in teaching and formation exemplifies the multifaceted nature of the Brothers' ministry. His statement, "I am very happy to work in the formation house and teach in the school. My apostolic life has strengthened me to continue to participate in this sacred educational mission," encapsulates the joy and commitment of the Brothers.

Across these individual journeys, a common thread emerges—a deep commitment to the Lasallian mission of education, focused chiefly on serving the poor and marginalised. The Brothers collectively view their vocation as a call to live out the charism of Saint John Baptist de La Salle, dedicating themselves to the spiritual and educational development of young people.