ANZ: Chanel College, Masterton, marks 150 years of Marist mission in Aotearoa

Chanel College, Masterton, marked 150 years of Marist mission in Aotearoa with a whole-school Mass on Friday 30 October. Parishioners, Brothers Martin and Chris joined students and staff for the celebration.

Chanel College students and staff form “150” for an anniversary photograph

In his homily, Fr Matt White invited students to imagine the challenges faced by the first Marist Brothers when they arrived in Aotearoa New Zealand in 1876. They had travelled from France with few resources, trusting that faith and education could make a difference in the lives of young people.

Brothers Martin and Chris beside a newly planted native tree at Chanel College

Fr Matt traced the Marist story in Masterton from the founding of St Joseph’s College for boys in 1945 to the formation of Chanel College in 1978. Chanel's story also carries the Brigidine legacy of St Bride's. The two traditions came together in one college community under the patronage of St Peter Chanel.

Fr Matt White delivers his homily at Chanel College’s 150th anniversary Mass

That legacy was brought into the present through a student voice video. Students reflected on how they live the Marist mission at Chanel, alongside a tribute to the missionaries, teachers, families and Brothers who helped shape it.

Kōka Pepe, Chanel College’s Director of Religious Studies, with Brothers Martin and Chris and the 150th Marist Mission in Aotearoa plaque

After Mass, Brothers Martin and Chris planted five native trees beside the school stream. The kōwhai, whauwhaupaku (five finger) and coprosma represented the five characteristics of Marist spirituality. The planting gave practical expression to the Marist values of service and care for creation, and continued a kaupapa inspired by the Ruamāhanga Restoration Trust’s work to care for waterways across the Wairarapa.

Fr Matt White blesses Te Kuripuni, the plants and stream ‘rakau’, during the anniversary celebration

The Te Kuripuni stream marker (rākau) was also blessed. The anniversary was marked with a whole-school “150” photograph and shared morning tea.

The ‘Te Kuripuni’ rakau beside the stream, where native trees were planted to mark the 150th anniversary

The celebration gave thanks for the generations who have carried the Marist mission in Aotearoa and renewed its call to serve others. At Chanel, that mission continues through acts of welcome, service and care for people and creation.

Pics and words courtesy: Chanel College, Masterton