WHO ARE THE DE LA SALLE BROTHERS?

The De La Salle Brothers are ordinary men leading extraordinary lives. They venture wherever the need is greatest to provide education, guidance and inspiration to youth in need, regardless of religion, race and culture. Their mission is to provide a human and Christian education to young people, especially the poor.

A Catholic Order, their mission began more than 300 years ago. Often this mission takes the Brothers to inhospitable areas, where even the local government cannot persuade teachers and administrators to go. There, the Brothers strive to give disadvantaged youth hope and a positive vision for the future – be it through education or welfare services.

BR BILL FIRMAN: Australian born Brother Bill Firman has been a member of the De La Salle Brothers since 1962. In September 2009 he answered a request to assist in the development of teacher education in Malakal in Southern Sudan. There he is currently heading up a teacher training college. His experience as three-time Principal of De La Salle schools in Australia and New Zealand and CEO of BoysTown makes him the perfect candidate for the role which is expected to be a 5 – 10 year appointment.

Read Br Bill’s weekly blog from Southern Sudan to learn about this amazing country and the challenges people face in rebuilding this war torn country.

BR MARK MCKEON: As Auxiliary Visitor (second-in-charge) of the De La Salle Brothers in the Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea District, Br Mark McKeon gives us some insight into this role with his weekly blog.

A De La Salle Brother for the past for 25 years, Brother Mark’s work has taken him to Papua New Guinea, Rome, New Zealand and many parts of Australia. He has worked as a teacher, a sports coach, Director of Religious Studies and Director of Vocations and Youth Ministry.