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The best part of living in community is the continual Lasallian and fraternal challenge to live out the best version of myself.

My Brothers don’t try to change me. They accept my personality and live out the family values of respect, service to one another and gratitude. All the while, they encourage me to grow as a man of faith and as a disciple of Christ.

My first year living in community was in the Bronx, New York City, as a residential aspirant. This, “try-it on” experience, was a discernment opportunity to participate in the community life and ministry of the Brothers without the commitment of joining.

Working as a community Service Coordinator while also living and praying in community served as the bridge between faith and action that would eventually lead me to formally apply to the De La Salle Christian Brothers.

It was humbling to be invited to take the next step and enter formation with the Brothers as a Postulant thus moving to Philadelphia where I have lived and served for the past two years.

Some of the best memories in community are from around the dinner table. To eat with the Brothers is to share laughs, smiles, enriching conversation, great food and fraternity. One of the best meals I had in community was when our community hosted a Christmas Open House and multiple communities of brothers, sisters and volunteers gathered to share food, laughs and unity.

My definition of community is not only comprised of Brothers. I find community and hope when I am with other young people who share a common vision and desire for peace and justice.

When I am with others, both religious and lay men and women, I find it consoling to know that no matter how different we may be outwardly, we all still comprise the Body of Christ.

I am grateful to the Brothers, family members, friends and folks that have supported me in my faith journey thus far. A big blessing to all who have prayed for me and I ask that you please pray that other young men and women may consider a commitment to religious life.

If you are discerning your vocation, be willing to grow and learn, be willing to take a risk in God and always be yourself.

Brother Kyle Mena is a Postulant with the Brothers of the Christian Schools. He currently lives and ministers in Philadelphia.