Some criteria and pathways for deliberating and taking action

9. Some Provinces are now establishing communities in new locations. Although Brothers continue working in the classroom, they are choosing to live at some distance from their school, e.g., in poor neighborhoods and sectors, so in need of the presence and witness of the Church. Rather than construct something new, these Brothers are choosing to live in already existing homes in their poor area, or they are building a place to live on property owned by the school or available in the area. Sometimes this type of community brings together Brothers from different age groups and ministries, thus enhancing diversity.
Such developments should help bring about a series of transformations:

·         The practice of a new community dynamic in interpersonal relationships, in faith-sharing, and in being open and accessible to young people.

·         A better knowledge and understanding of the lives of ordinary working people resulting from moving to their neighborhoods.

·         Greater involvement in the local Church, educating its members and solving parish problems.

·         A heightening of awareness concerning community budgets and the need to formulate community responses to uplift the poor.

·         The development of a community lifestyle more in keeping with the economic standards of the people among whom the Brothers live.

It goes without saying that the Provincial Council must closely regulate exchanges between the Province fund and community budgets, keeping in mind the need for solidarity among communities.