Two Young Men Accepted for Reception of Habit of the De La Salle Brothers

In a significant development for the Lasallian community, the District Council has approved the applications of Amaan Javed and Adeel Younas for the Reception of Habit. This decision, made during the District Council Meeting on 26 September, marks an important step in the spiritual journey of these two young men from Pakistan. The reception took place on 14 October, highlighting a meaningful milestone not only for them but also for the entire community. This moment reflects their personal growth and strengthens the collective mission of the De La Salle Brothers, making it an exciting time for everyone involved.

Amaan Javed, born on 28 December 2000, has demonstrated a strong commitment to the Lasallian mission. He completed his matriculation from Government High School and his intermediate studies from La Salle College Faisalabad. Amaan's passion for reading spiritual books reflects his deep interest in religious life.

Amaan reflected on his journey in his personal statement: "I have been taught by different Brothers academic education, Catechism and about Lasallian Charism." He further expressed his calling, stating, "I realised that Almighty God is calling me through prayer to follow the footsteps of the founder and to work for the education of the poor and to devote my life for Lasallian mission."

Adeel Younas, born on 27 November 1998, shares a similar educational background, having completed his matriculation from Government St Thomas High School and his intermediate studies from La Salle College Faisalabad. Adeel is associated with St. Fidelis Catholic Church in Khushpur and, like Amaan, has a keen interest in spiritual literature.

In his personal statement, Adeel expressed his journey of discernment: "During five years of my formation in Miguel House, I also completed my academic studies. During this early stage, through prayer, I realised that God was calling me to follow Him." He further reflected on his vocation, saying, "In discerning my vocation, I became acquainted that the Brothers are working for the welfare of the youth, especially the poor, through education. Their dedication and charism have inspired me a lot, and I consider myself fortunate."

Both candidates have been under the guidance of Br Saddique Gill, their director at St Miguel House of Formation, and Br Sajawal Bhatti, their sub-director.

Becoming a De La Salle Brother involves several stages of formation. Amaan and Adeel have completed their postulancy, which is the initial stage of formation preceding the novitiate. During this time, they have had the opportunity to experience the Institute's religious community and apostolic life first-hand.

The postulancy program, as outlined in the Rule of the Institute, provides candidates with the means to pursue growth in maturity, enrich their faith, and discern the authenticity of their vocation to the Brothers' life. It includes initiation into Christian life and instruction, with a focus on deepening their life of faith.

The Reception of Habit is a significant ceremony that marks the transition from postulancy to novitiate. It symbolises the candidates' commitment to the religious life and the charism of Saint John Baptist de La Salle. During this ceremony, Amaan and Adeel will don the religious habit of the De La Salle Brothers, signifying their entry into a new phase of their spiritual journey.

The District Council, which plays a crucial role in the governance of the Institute, carefully reviewed the applications of both Amaan and Adeel. The Council's responsibilities extend to various aspects of the Institute's life, including the admission of candidates to the novitiate.

According to the Rule, the District Council's mission is to promote the unity of the District and assist the Brother Visitor in exercising his duties. Their acceptance of Amaan and Adeel reflects the Council's confidence in the candidates' vocations and their potential to contribute meaningfully to the Lasallian mission.

As they prepare for the novitiate program beginning at the end of this month, Amaan and Adeel embark on a transformative journey of spiritual growth and service. The novitiate period will involve intensive formation, deepening their understanding of the Lasallian charism and preparing them for a life dedicated to education and faith.

Their commitment to the Brothers' life not only continues the legacy of Saint John Baptist de La Salle but also inspires other young people to consider a path in religious life and education. Amaan and Adeel’s journey is a testament to their dedication to serving the poor through education, reflecting the core values of the Lasallian mission in Pakistan. We wish them well with their continuing formation.

Source: Kate Mason, District Communications Manager