Newly Appointed District Council Poised to Strengthen Lasallian Mission

The District of Australia, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Papua New Guinea have officially appointed a new District Council for the 2025–2029 term, and this announcement has been welcomed with both enthusiasm and anticipation. The Council exists to foster unity among communities in the District and to provide leadership in the Brothers’ shared educational mission in accordance with the Rule of the Brothers of the Christian Schools, which emphasises fraternal collaboration and the responsibility of ensuring the vibrancy of the mission in every local context. The appointment followed a careful District-wide ballot, which was conducted electronically, culminating in the confirmation of the members of the new Council by the Brother Superior General.

Among the newly appointed Councillors is Brother Sajid Bashir, a dedicated educator from Pakistan who has served as a teacher and principal in various Lasallian institutions, including Don Basco Home Orphanage and La Salle High School, and who has overseen formation houses in Faisalabad. Brother Sajid has demonstrated a profound commitment to serving vulnerable communities and promoting access to education, especially for those at risk. His experiences in both classroom teaching and leadership roles including Pakistan Sector Coordinator has prepared him well for contributing to the governance of the District.

Brother Patrick Lynch, a New Zealander born in Otahuhu, Auckland, has had a distinguished career in the field of Catholic education, having served as Principal of De La Salle College, Mangere East, and later as Chief Executive Officer of the New Zealand Catholic Education Office. Recognised publicly, with a Knighthood in 2015, for his services to education and society, he brings to the Council considerable expertise in governance, public relations, and the promotion of high standards in schools. His broad experience encompasses both local and international forums and has earned him significant respect across the Lasallian family.

Brother Anthony (Tony) Cummins, born in Melbourne, has worked extensively in secondary education and youth ministry, taking on roles as a teacher, coordinator, vocation director, and member of District Councils in earlier terms. Over the years, he has combined pastoral sensitivity with strategic insights, having taught at several Lasallian schools across Australia and New Zealand and having helped guide formation programmes at the District and Regional level. His experiences, particularly in coordinating vocations and youth ministry, as well as playing a significant role in the implementation of the District's Lasallian Volunteer programme, will bring a valuable perspective to the Council’s deliberations.

Brother Steve Hogan, from Taranaki, New Zealand, has a broad background of principalship and teaching in schools such as De La Salle College in Mangere East, La Salle College in Hong Kong, and Oakhill College in Sydney. Having successfully managed complex institutions in diverse cultural settings, he will provide seasoned leadership in educational strategy and community-building. His proven ability to navigate challenges and introduce innovative practices is expected to strengthen the Council’s capacity to support the District’s various works.

Brother Patrick McCarthy has excelled as a teacher, counsellor, principal, and chaplain in numerous communities over the decades. His dedication to pastoral outreach and psychological support in educational settings, including work with at-risk youth and families, underscores his deep commitment to the personal development of students and staff. His long-standing engagement in transformative projects, such as establishing Kids Helpline, evidences his creativity and compassion in meeting contemporary pastoral needs.

This new District Council is charged with guiding the Brothers, Partners and educational communities in living out the Lasallian mission while attending to the well-being of all who serve in that mission. Working alongside the new Brother Visitor, the Council will examine current practices, explore new directions, and ensure that governance structures remain responsive to the evolving needs of the District. Their combined skills and insights will be instrumental in strengthening Lasallian communities, enhancing collaboration and shaping educational initiatives that bring about sustainable progress.

The Brothers and colleagues throughout the District wish the new Councillors every success and offer gratitude for their willingness to embrace this responsibility. Their leadership is expected to bear fruit in fostering a spirit of unity, faith, and zeal, thereby allowing the District to address the challenges of the future with both discernment and optimism.