First Provincial Visit of 2026: Br Darren Visits New Caledonia, Pays Respects to Late Marist Sisters

Br Darren Burge, Provincial of the Star of the Sea Province, is currently visiting New Caledonia in his first Provincial visit of 2026. During his time there, he is meeting with Brothers Jean-Paul Delesalle and Georges Benigaud, who live near Noumea.

Br Georges Benigaud, Br Darren Burge, and Br Jean-Paul Delesalle

The visit includes several key engagements. Br Darren will update the community on the recent chapter held in Fiji and will meet with the Archbishop of Noumea on Friday. This short but significant visit focuses on learning more about the Marist presence in New Caledonia, the successes and challenges facing the mission, and discerning future options for Marist ministry in the region.

Br Darren paid his respects to two members of the Marist Missionaries Sisters who died last week

During his visit, Br Darren also paid his respects to two members of the Marist Missionary Sisters who died last week and are buried in the Brothers' cemetery at Paita. We give thanks to God for the gifts and lives of Sister Carla and Sister Nicole.

Br Darren with Sister Ancilla a former superior General Marist Missionary Sisters

-Contributed by Br Neville Solomon in New Caledonia