In the Pakistan Sector, eight Brothers renewed their vows of brotherhood, through which each one brings unique experiences and perspectives to their vocation, collectively strengthening the Lasallian mission and reaffirming their dedication to the principles of association, stability, chastity, poverty and obedience. This spiritual commitment involves a continuous soul-searching and discernment, ensuring they are aligned with their vocation and mission of the Institute.
It was in this spirit of faith that 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. The journey of each Brother reflects the diverse ways in which the Lasallian charism can be lived out and 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 as to motivate personal relationships: “Encountering Jesus means coming face to face with the greatest friend I could ever imagine”.
The same experience is also told by Brother Nabeel Pius, who finds God’s presence in his daily life, especially in his interactions with students: “[…] I experience God witin my students, especially when I feel my students need my help and care”.
The importance of community life in the Brothers’ vocation is particularly highlighted by Brother Moon Gill, who states, “Living in community has been a very unique learning channel. Brother Moon has found joy in serving others and following the Founder’s example. 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”.
The theme of growth through ministry is further exemplified by Brother Zafar Iqbal, who is deeply interested in the subject of 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: “My ministry makes me grow every day in my vocation and accomplish all given responsibilities with the grace of God.
This openness to growth and formation is also evident in the journey of Brother Qulb-e Noor: “These expeditions of formations have made me stronger and firm in my conviction, my moral character and vocation”.
The Lasallian tradition and its focus on education are particularly emphasised by Brother Jabran Bhatti. For him, the finality of religious life is “to live a life that is dedicated to spiritual growth and service of others”, with a particular focus on education and the serving the marginalised. also stressing the role of the Holy Spirit and God’s love: “The work of the Holy Spirit and God’s love in my religious journey have helped me in my Christian and Lasallian commitment.
Brother Sajawal Bhatti‘s active involvement in teaching and formation exemplifies the multifaceted nature of the Brothers’ ministry and encapsulates the joy and commitment of the Brothers: “I am very happy to work in the formation house and to teach in the school. My apostolic life has strengthened me to continue to participate in this sacred educational mission”. Brother Sajawal emphasizes 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 “.
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 collective 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 and to the Lasallian commitment to continuously love God and to be his servants.