First, we begin our class by following a tradition that has been followed by nearly 10,000 graduates of CBC and nearly a million students annually throughout the world--the traditional mantra. The mantra used at the beginning of every class taught by the Christian Brothers and their associates is..."Let Us Remember That We Are In The Holy Presence of God." This expression, or mantra, is part of the lived charism and vision of our founder--St. John Baptist de La Salle. Remembering that we are in the Holy pesence of God during prayer and work can help us accomplish great things. At CBC, we too share De La Salle's enthusiasm for prayer and are constantly aware of the holy presence of God--before, during and at the end of every class.
How did this tradition begin? How did these traditions lead us to our identity at CBC? The answer is rather simple--but the story involves millions of people through history, and now you continue in this legacy! Our heritage, started in France in 1691 by St. John Baptist De La Salle--Today is known the world over as our "Lasallian Heritage."
Click on the link for more information about our worldwide Lasallian connection: Our Global Family
Our Story began with the founder of the Brothers of the Christian Schools (Christian Brothers)--St. John Baptist De La Salle. When we say our mantra, "Let Us Remember That We Are In The Holy Presence of God," we are invited to take a moment to pause and reflect about our God and Creator--the One from which all good things come. De La Salle prayed constantly for guidance in his work with the Brothers and the education of their students.
Today, in the tradition of our "Lasallian" heritage, we too begin every class with our mantra and use it as a springboard to guide us into our formal prayer. Because Prayer was important to Fr. De La Salle its importance will be reflected in our class as well. Prayer can take on various forms--the type of prayer used is up to us. In our class, Human Person, we begin class everyday with a type of prayer called a "contemporary parable." Parables are stories that can be powerful forms of prayer--prayers that invite us to reflect upon a moral or lesson to be learned about God, our neighbors and ourselves. Historically, Jesus likewise used parables to teach his students (Disciples) lessons about themselves and about God.
Third, after the contemporary parable is read you will be asked to reflect upon the story in your computer--a daily journal of sorts. In your reflection, share a thought(s) that came to mind about the story. Perhaps you might wish to share how the story connected with you--reminded you of a time in your own life or a story you could relate with. How does the story relate to others? God?
To view a sample reflection journal view the following link: Sample
Fourth, after everyone has had a chance to compose a few thoughts (7-9 lines), the class will be asked to share a few insights orally. Each student will have the opportunity to share and listen to the insights and wisdom of your peers. I am continually amazed at the level of maturity and amount of wisdom demonstrated by you the Freshmen class--who ever said that high school students today don't have a lot to offer? Obviously, they haven't had a chance to meet you!
Fifth, our class expectations! To view our "Class Expectation" click on the following link: Expectations
Do you remember the key points?
Take out a sheet of paper--Record your answers! Use your notes later for your "Class Server" on-line quiz! Good Luck!
I'm sure you will earn 100% on your quiz--Keep your notes!
Finally, there is one final tradition--St. John Baptist De La Salle encouraged us to live and do all things with the presence of Jesus in our hearts. We remember the founder's words by ending every class and activity with the phrase...