#LasallianLife
Faith, Reason, and Exciting News!
January 6, 2023
One of the most influential theological contributions from the recently passed Pope Benedict XVI were his writings regarding the harmony between faith and reason. He frequently reflected that one must develop both the heart and the mind - allowing them to work in concert throughout our lives. He said, “Reason and faith can come to each other's assistance. . . reason without faith is doomed to flounder in an illusion of its own omnipotence. Faith without reason risks being cut off from everyday life.”
In many ways, Lasallian education is founded on this principle - balancing heart and mind. Developing the mind without the heart is similar to learning to masterfully position the sails on the swiftest ship yet failing to be able to chart a course. Developing the heart without the mind is similar to immaculately discerning the nautical map but never developing the skills to manage the sails. To make the most of our journey that is our lives, mind and heart must work in concert. The mind provides the skills, the heart provides the direction. Developed together, our ship glides blissfully on top of the water, fixed upon the perfect course. Lasallian researcher, Brother Michel Sauvage reflects on this concept:
“His [De La Salle’s] concern for the success of his schools cannot be explained by merely religious reasons. It is true that Catechism occupies a central position in Lasallian schools; nevertheless, De La Salle is more clear than many others of his time because he is able to perceive the secular value of this educational experiment: that is, to prepare the children not only for the next life, but for an earthly life which is both useful and happy.”
Throughout the next few weeks and months, our senior students will begin to receive decisions and scholarships from the colleges and universities where they have applied. This is their next step in developing faith and reason - heart and mind.
I am extremely proud to announce that we have recently received news that senior student Sravan Kodali has been named a recipient of the Cameron Impact Scholarship. From the Cameron Impact Scholarship website:
The Cameron Impact Scholarship is a four-year, full-tuition, impact-driven undergraduate scholarship awarded annually to 10-15 exceptional high school students who have demonstrated excellence in leadership, community service, extracurricular activities, and academics. The Cameron Impact Scholar is unique among their peers in their desire to directly impact their communities and in the world at large. Our Scholar aspires to contribute to positive forces for change and plans to tailor their education to that end. The Cameron Impact Scholarship covers the full tuition, fees, and books at any accredited U.S. based college or university that the recipient chooses to attend (https://www.bryancameroneducationfoundation.org).
In the past six years, CBA is the only high school in CNY to have a student receive this prestigious scholarship. During that time, we are fortunate to have two CBA students receive this distinguished award - Abby Kambhampaty in 2021 who is currently attending Dartmouth College, and now Sravan in 2023.
We are extraordinarily proud of Sravan and grateful to our faculty and staff for their guidance that made this recognition possible. The Cameron Impact Scholarship provides an opportunity for Sravan to use faith and reason, heart and mind, to take the next step in impacting the lives of others.
I have no doubt that Sravan will continue to use his Lasallian education well, living a “life which is both useful and happy.”
“May God continue what he has begun in you (De La Salle).”
Congratulations, Sravan!
Mr. Matthew Keough
President, Christian Brothers Academy
Click here to read more about Sravan’s accomplishments that led to this scholarship.
*Additional note: Sravan will be featured on Syracuse's News Channel 9 for his achievement. Please check their website for coverage.
