From PNG to Samoa: Graduations, Cultural Days, and Community Engagements Keep Our Pasifika Marist Family Busy

It has been an eventful couple of weeks across Pasifika - from the graduation of Brothers in Papua New Guinea, to cultural day celebrations at our school in Solomon Islands, and students enjoying a hands-on day of work in Samoa. Pasifika has been buzzing with activity. Read all updates here.

Congratulations, Brothers Mark Kenatsi & Br Carlvin Rumina!

On the fortieth anniversary of the Marist Brothers' presence in Madang, and the thirtieth anniversary of the Divine Word University, two Brothers were awarded degrees on 5 March 2026.

Br Carlvin Rumina, currently serving in Kiribati, was awarded his Bachelor of Arts in Social and Religious Studies in absentia.

Br Mark Kenatsi received his Master's in Educational Leadership, presented by Professor Joseph Lingawa-Kekeya - a longstanding friend and collaborator of the Marist Brothers. The ceremony saw more than 790 graduands on the day.

Congratulations, Brothers!

Fiji: Br Anitelea Fidow Represents Marist Brothers High School at Archdiocese of Suva Chaplaincy Formation Course

Br Anitelea Fidow was invited to attend the Archdiocese of Suva Chaplaincy Formation Course on behalf of Marist Brothers High School - a significant initiative aimed at strengthening pastoral care across all Catholic schools in Fiji.

The course comes in response to growing concern among educators, church leaders, and the Government of Fiji regarding the wellbeing of young people. Rising issues such as drug use, social media influences, and other social challenges facing today's youth have made the presence of a dedicated school Chaplain not only necessary but essential. In recognition of this, the Government of Fiji has committed to supporting a Chaplain in every Catholic school across the nation.

The formation course covered a comprehensive range of topics designed to equip Chaplains with the knowledge and tools needed to serve their school communities effectively. These included:

• Safeguarding - ensuring the protection and safety of all students

• Basic Counselling - providing foundational skills to support students' emotional and mental wellbeing

• Role and Job Description of a Chaplain - clarifying the responsibilities and expectations of the position

• Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) - outlining the formal agreement between schools and the Archdiocese

Participants also explored the pedagogy of teaching Religious Education through a modern, inclusive approach - one that is responsive to the diverse needs of today's students and reflective of contemporary best practices in faith-based education.

Further sessions addressed pressing social issues affecting young people, as well as deep reflective work centred on identity - exploring the fundamental question: Who am I? - encouraging Chaplains to foster a strong sense of self and purpose in the students they serve.

He also attended the Drug Awareness programme in the Archdiocese of Suva, where he was invited to take part in this important initiative for our Catholic schools.

Solomon Islands: St Joseph Tenaru Celebrates Cultural Diversity in Colourful Display

Students, teachers, and community members at St Joseph Tenaru came together last week in a vibrant celebration of culture and heritage, marking the school's annual Cultural Day.

Held under the theme "Diverse Cultures: Celebrations in Communion," the event showcased the rich tapestry of traditions represented within the school community. Colourful traditional dress, dance, and customs were on full display as participants took pride in sharing their unique cultural identities.

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Samoa: Catholic Teachers Gather for Special Assembly Across Samoa

Catholic teachers from across Samoa - spanning preschool to tertiary level - recently united for a special gathering to celebrate their shared vocation.

The event opened with Holy Mass at the Cathedral, presided over by Archbishop Mosese. Following Mass, the program continued at Marist Brothers School, bringing educators together in both faith and fellowship.

Archbishop Mosese set the tone for the gathering with a heartfelt reminder to those present: being a teacher is, above all, a work of the heart.

Marist Brothers Students Learn Beyond the Classroom

Students at Marist Brothers Primary School, Mulivai, recently demonstrated that education extends well beyond the classroom, taking part in hands-on manual work that put their teamwork, leadership, and independence to the test.

Guided and supported by their teachers, the boys threw themselves into the activities like helping with cleaning their huge field with enthusiasm - turning the session into a rewarding mix of play, fun, and real learning.

Contributed by Brothers Frank Hough, Mark Kenatsi, Anitelea Fidow, Steve Vaea, & Epalle Taega