Newly Elected Star of the Sea Provincial Council Holds First Meeting, Sets Direction for the Future

The newly elected Star of the Sea Provincial Council gathered for its first meeting, marking a significant moment as it begins shaping the direction of the Province for the next three years. The Council comprises Br Darren Burge (Provincial), Br Ken McDonald (Vice Provincial and Provincial Delegate, Pasifika), Br Peter Horide (Provincial Delegate, Aotearoa New Zealand), Br Greg McDonald (Provincial Delegate, Timor-Leste and Cambodia), Br Bryan Davis (Provincial Delegate, Australia), and Br Sefo Une, who supports the Provincial Delegate for the Pasifika (Pacific).

The meeting offered Council members an opportunity to reflect on the key themes emerging from both the General Chapter and the Provincial Chapter, while beginning the important work of discerning practical pathways forward for the life and mission of the Province.

Alongside this forward-looking focus, the Council addressed matters affecting the Province as a whole, including considerations related to the appointments of Brothers. Members also worked on establishing the committees and commissions that will help guide and support the Province’s priorities over the next three years, ensuring the mission continues with clarity, collaboration, and purpose.

The Council welcomed several invited guests who shared their expertise in areas central to the Province’s governance and future planning. Discussions included financial stewardship, emerging directions for mission and ministries, and matters of risk and compliance - all contributing to the Province’s commitment to responsible and sustainable leadership.

Updates were also shared from across the countries that form the Province, providing insight into current realities, emerging opportunities, and the diverse settings in which the Marist mission is carried forward. These conversations strengthened the Council’s understanding of the breadth of the Province and grounded its discussions in the lived experiences of the communities they serve.