Supporting the Lasallian Mission: Reflections from the Midwest District Chapter Mission Assembly

Michael A. Airdo and Mollie E. Werwas were honored to participate in the Christian Brothers of the Midwest District Chapter Mission Assembly last week.

Bringing together Brothers and Lasallian Partners from across the Midwest, the Assembly provided an opportunity for prayer, reflection, dialogue, and discernment as participants considered the future of the Lasallian mission and its continued commitment to faith, service, community, and educational excellence.

As proud legal counsel to the Christian Brothers of the Midwest, Airdo Werwas is privileged to support the Brothers and their ministries. We are grateful for the opportunity to spend time with so many dedicated individuals whose commitment to the mission of Saint John Baptist de La Salle continues to transform lives and strengthen communities throughout the District.

A special thank you to Brother Michael Fehrenbach, FSC, Visitor, and Scott Kier for their leadership in organizing the Mission Assembly and for the invitation to participate in this meaningful gathering. We also extend our gratitude to Sister Imma De Stefanis, RSCJ, and Sister Reyna Gonzalez, RSCJ, of the Society of the Sacred Heart, whose thoughtful facilitation of the Assembly's discussions helped foster meaningful dialogue, reflection, and discernment throughout the gathering.

The Assembly concluded with a moving address by Brother Armin Luistro, FSC, Superior General of the Brothers, who challenged and empowered those gathered to embrace their role as co-stewards of the Lasallian mission. Drawing a connection between the election of Pope Leo XIV and the future of the Lasallian mission, Brother Armin said:

“Pope Leo XIV, born and raised right here on the South Side of Chicago, stands as a living testament to this new reality. As he steps forward as the chief steward of the universal Church, his leadership beautifully mirrors the exact journey of the Midwest District. Just as a son of Chicago has been called to hold governance for the global flock, Lasallian Partners across the Midwest are being asked to claim their rightful, baptismal role as authentic co-stewards alongside the Brothers.”

His remarks served as a powerful reminder of the shared responsibility entrusted to both Brothers and Partners in carrying the Lasallian mission forward.

Thank you to all who made the Assembly such a meaningful and inspiring gathering. We look forward to continuing to support the important work of the Christian Brothers and their ministries in the years ahead.