Dear Members of the Hong Kong Lasallian Family,

Happy Easter!

We are on a special journey with the Universal Church: the Jubilee Year, with the theme of “Pilgrims of Hope.”  We are asked to think about the deep message of hope that Easter brings this year, which is a time of forgiveness and renewal.

Today, we are called to be pilgrims of hope in the world, just like the first disciples who went on a trip in the dark and without knowing what would happen. They found the empty tomb and the radiant presence of the Risen Christ.  It is written in Pope Francis’s Bull of Indiction, “Spes non confundit,” which means “Hope does not disappoint.”  This strong affirmation speaks to the heart of Easter: the promise of new life, the victory over hopelessness, and the unwavering faith in God’s love.

Our Lasallian purpose is very much in line with the Jubilee Year’s call to pilgrimage.  We are asked to go on a journey of faith that changes us, just like St. John Baptist de La Salle did.

We should repent, forgive, and seek a deeper connection with spiritual life, just like the Jubilee did. We should also “extend hope” by bringing the light of Christ into our schools, communities, and families and giving those who are looking for it the hope that comes from the Resurrection. We “are asked to “walk together” which means to go on this journey with our students, coworkers, and everyone else we help, giving them strength and confidence as they face the future.

As we enjoy Easter and the fact that Christ beat death, let us also remember the hope that keeps our Lasallian mission going.  As pilgrims of hope, may we “fan the flame” of faith by believing in God’s big picture and sharing the joy of the Resurrection through our words.

Let us be lights of hope, shining the light of the risen Christ on everyone we meet.  May this Easter, this Jubilee Year and also our 150th anniversary in Hong Kong, give you new faith, unshakable hope, and love that knows no limits.

Christ has risen from the dead! Alleluia!

Fraternally yours,

Br Dennis Magbanua FSC
Head of the Hong Kong Lasallian Family