The Marist presence shines - strong and quietly enduring - in Samoa, writes Mark Pauschmann

Mark Pauschmann, in his role as Executive Director of Province Ministries, has been visiting Marist communities across the province. During his recent visit to Samoa, he witnessed firsthand how the Marist spirit continues to thrive, even in the face of a few challenges. The strength of community, dedication to mission, and enduring sense of faith remain clearly visible among the Brothers and Champagnat Marists, he reports.

Spending the week in Samoa was both humbling and hope-filled. From the moment I arrived, I was touched by the warmth of the community and the strong but quiet presence of the Marist spirit across both the primary and high schools and within the wider Marist community.

The Marist family at Marist Primary School in Mulivai.

Br Sefo Une was a gracious and generous host, taking time to show me around the Marist properties in Apia and making me feel at home. Alongside the Brothers, his warm hospitality allowed me to witness firsthand the strength and hope that continue to shape the Marist mission in Samoa.

Love of work displayed by our young students.

At Marist Brothers Primary School, the Champagnat Day signs created by the students were simple yet moving expressions of Marist spirit. Despite challenges such as staffing pressures and limited resources, the dedication of Br Siaosi Ioane and his team to both learning and faith is clearly evident in school life.

At St Joseph’s Marist High School, the new Principal, Anne-Marie Tauliil-Lia, has been in the role for just ten weeks but is already generating real momentum. She brings fresh energy to the staff, strengthens student learning, and deepens the school’s Marist identity. Congratulations to her on such a promising start.

St Joseph College students, Samoa.

I had the privilege of joining staff for a professional learning session on the SOLO taxonomy, exploring ways to develop deeper thinking skills beyond memorisation. What stood out was not only their openness to growth but also their generosity, many staff give their own time after hours for extra tuition, despite being paid significantly less than teachers in other schools. This speaks volumes about their commitment to students and the school’s mission.

Champagnat Day signs at Marist Brothers Primary School, Mulivai.

I was also fortunate to join students praying the Rosary in the quadrangle, a moving moment of reverence and unity. Spending time with the Form 10 boys in their plantation was another highlight. Their pride in their work and support for one another reflected the values lived daily across the school.

Mark Pauschmann and Br Sefo Une.

I leave Samoa hopeful for what continues to grow here, quietly, faithfully, and always in the Marist way.

Words and pictures by Mark Pauchmann, Executive Director for Province Ministeries