From 11–25 September, three staff members and 12 students from Sacred Heart College, Adelaide, travelled to the Solomon Islands for an immersion experience. Immersions provide an opportunity for both visitors and host communities to learn from one another, gaining a deeper understanding of different cultures, ways of life and the challenges faced by communities. The group stayed at the newly renovated Marist House, located across from St Joseph’s School Tenaru and the students and staff were warmly welcomed by the Brothers, lay Marists and local school community. A key part of the immersion was the 'buddy system' where each Sacred Heart student was paired with a student of St Joseph's. The students spent time together in classes, participated in sports, followed their buddies through their daily routines and helped with various chores and activities. The group also visited a number of other schools and community organisations, including a local village, Mercy School, Bishop Epalle School, Amoana Christian Academy and the DIVIT Rural Training Centre. Through these experiences, the students were able to see different aspects of life in the Solomon Islands while building friendships and gaining a deeper appreciation of the local culture and community. View more pics: Words and pics courtesy: Damian Ruiz, Sacred Heart College, Adelaide

Sunday, 13 September was a very special day for the Marist Brothers and the wider Marist family in Australia, as Brothers across Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne gathered to celebrate their Jubilees. This year, the Jubilees honoured Brothers marking significant milestones in their vocation – 80 years, 75 years, 70 years (Platinum), 60 years (Diamond) and 50 years (Golden) as Marist Brothers. Provincial Br Darren Burge with Br Andrew Moraghan who is celebrating his Diamond Jubilee (60 years) In Sydney, the celebrations were attended by Provincial Br Darren Burge. In Brisbane, Br Ken McDonald presided over the celebrations, while in Melbourne, Br Tony Clark represented the Provincial. Jubilarians in Brisbane with Vice Provincial Br Ken McDonald - Brothers Tony Burrows and Bill Selden celebrating their Diamond Jubilee (60 years) as Marist Brothers The Jubilees provide a wonderful opportunity to honour the remarkable journeys of the Brothers, who have dedicated their lives to furthering the Marist mission, both in Australia and across different parts of the Province, like Papua New Guinea, Timor-Leste and beyond. Throughout their vocations, the Brothers have served the Marist mission in many different ways. While many have dedicated themselves to teaching, others have contributed through formation, accompanying and forming young adults, serving as community leaders, and taking on countless other roles in support of Marist communities and ministries. Br Tony Clark with Br Julian Casey who is celebrating his Platinum Jubilee (70 years) as a Marist Brother In his address, Br Darren thanked the Jubilarians for their service, unconditional commitment and courage, which they have demonstrated throughout their years of ministry and continue to show today. He expressed the Province’s deep gratitude for the lives they have given in service of the Marist mission and presented each of the Jubilarians with a certificate of commemoration in recognition of their many years of faithful commitment. View more pics from Sydney Jubilee celebrations: View more pics from Brisbane Jubilee Celebrations: View more pics from Melbourne Jubilee Celebrations:

Congratulations to Br Georges Benigaud, who celebrated his Diamond Jubilee as a Marist Brother during a special Marist Family Mass in Paita, New Caledonia, on 8 September. The Mass was celebrated by Fr François Grossin SM and attended by Vice Provincial Br Ken McDonald, Br Neville Solomon and members of the Champagnat Marist Family. Br Georges renews his vows Br Ken also presented Br Georges with a special token of appreciation from Star of the Sea Province in recognition of his 60 years of faithful service. During the Mass, the congregation sang hymns in French and Sr Koleti, Regional Superior of the SMSM Sisters, hosted a traditional lunch to mark the occasion. The celebration provided an opportunity for the Marist Family to give thanks for Br Georges' 60 years of religious life and his many years of faithful service in the Pacific. Br Georges with Vice Provincial Br Ken Br Georges is one of two French Marist Brothers who reside in New Caledonia. He lives in community with Br Jean-Paul Delesalle, who will celebrate his own Diamond Jubilee next year. Having joined the novitiate in 1966, Br Georges moved to the Pacific from the Hermitage in France in 1971 and has devoted much of his religious life to serving the people and Marist communities of the region. Br Georges at holy communion For more than three decades, Br Georges played an important role in technical and vocational education at Collège Champagnat, serving as the Deputy Director and Head of Technical Education from 1977 until his retirement in 2011. Since then, he has continued his service through pastoral work with the Archdiocese of Nouméa and in the local parish. Congratulations, Br Georges, and thank you for 60 years of faithful service! View more pics:

On 15 September, Marists in Fiji marked a significant leadership transition as Br Kees formally handed over the role of Country Coordinator in Fiji to Br Sefo Une after 48 years of service in the country, including the past 30 as Country Coordinator. Br Kees passes the mantle of leadership to Br Sefo Une The ceremony, titled “Light to Light,” took place among Marists who have known and worked with Br Kees for decades. In a simple but symbolic gesture, both Brothers were given candles. Br Kees’ candle was lit; Br Sefo’s was not. Br Kees then lit Br Sefo’s candle, a moment that represented the formal passing of leadership. The act reflected a core Marist understanding of mission - what is received is also to be handed on, so that the light continues to shine. The changeover was followed by prayer, a traditional Sevusevu ceremony and a Fijian meal. Brothers and lay Marists gathered for the occasion, with families contributing food for a potluck dinner. During the Sevusevu, Br Sefo was formally welcomed into his new role while the community expressed its gratitude to Br Kees for his long years of leadership and presence in Fiji. Both Brothers addressed those present. Br Kees spoke with clear affection for Fiji and the deep bonds he has formed over four decades in the country. After the ceremony, the Marist family prayed for Br Sefo and pledged their support to him as he begins his term as Country Coordinator. Br Kees served as District Superior of Fiji from 1995 to 2002, having first arrived in Fiji in 1978. Over the decades, he has played an important role in the growth and development of the Marist mission in Fiji. May Mary, Our Good Mother, and Marcellin continue to accompany Br Kees and Br Sefo in the years ahead. View more pics: -Contributed by Br Petero Navuku, Fiji

On 9 September, the students, staff and families gathered at LaValla School in Cambodia to celebrate the Grade 6 graduation, with two special guests joining the school community for the occasion, Star of the Sea Provincial Br Darren Burge and General Councillor and Oceania Link Councillor Br Rajakumar Soosai Manickam, who was visiting LaValla and Cambodia for the first time. Brothers Rajakumar and Darren with the teachers at the school The ceremony began with the raising of the national flag, followed by the formal procession of the Grade 6 students. Students were called forward in pairs to receive a traditional Cambodian krama from Teachers Chiva and Nouen, before Br Darren presented each graduate with a framed certificate. Br Rajakumar giving graduation certificates Three speakers addressed the graduating class - LaValla Principal Um Sreynan, Executive Director of Marist Solidarity Cambodia, Sokny Leang, and Br Darren. Two Grade 6 students then gave responses of gratitude on behalf of their class - inf luient Khmer and English. The two-hour program also showcased the creativity and talents of students across the school. The school band accompanied several singing groups, with students playing keyboards, guitars and drums alongside traditional Cambodian instruments. Br Darren giving graduation certificates One song, in particular, captured something of what LaValla means to its students, “It is through the kindness of you all that we have studied and built a new destiny.” There was also the customary surprise performance from Grade 2 Teacher Im. This year, younger students performed a traditional Cambodian dance, accompanied by Rado singing a solo. Br Rajakumar also presented academic awards to students from each grade. Students singing a song at the ceremony This year we had a greater number of parents and grandparent guardians here joining their children and staying a few days. On Wednesday, the first group of students left for the provinces for the six weeks Pchum Ben holidays. Five of the Grade 6 students will not return in late October, four will attend local high schools near their families which is a priority and one student will undertake language skills training. Br Brian and Br Allen with the teachers at the school The school community wished all five students well as they take their next steps, while reminding them that they will always be welcome back at LaValla as visitors. View more pics: -Br Brian Kinsella, Chair, Marist Solidarity Cambodia

Recently, the Executive Director for Province Ministries, Mark Pauschmann, visited the beautiful islands of New Caledonia - one of the eleven countries in our Province. The Marist Brothers have a long and rich history here, dating back to the late 1800s when the first Brothers arrived to serve in schools and communities, laying deep foundations in education, faith, and service that continue to shape lives today. In his reflection, Mark writes about meeting with two French Brothers currently serving in Nouméa, and about how he sees both the present reality and the future possibilities for the Marist mission in New Caledonia. Read more: My time in New Caledonia was marked by the warm and genuine welcome of the Brothers in Nouméa. They continue to live their vocation here in a steady, familiar way - faithful to what they have always done and deeply connected to the people. Five schools on Marist‑owned land still carry our name, and as a Province we remain committed to sustaining a Marist presence here, honouring the history and contributions of the Brothers. Today, this presence is expressed through simple but meaningful acts - supporting parish life, assisting the Archdiocese with printing needs, bringing communion to parishioners, and maintaining a quiet but faithful witness in the community. These humble efforts continue to embody the Marist spirit of service and closeness, and in light of recent unrest, they may well be the foundation from which our mission evolves into new forms in the future. Lycée Professionnel Marcellin Champagnat (LPMC) During our visit, we met with the School Director, Monsieur Laurent Pain, who warmly welcomed us and shared insights into the school’s life and development, especially in the wake of the recent crisis and in preparation for the Province’s next phase. With Laurent Pain, Director of LPMC Despite challenges, LPMC continues to provide steady, quality education to over 600 students - an increase from just over 500 pre‑crisis. The school offers hands‑on vocational training in Construction, Maintenance, Electrical Engineering, and Metalwork, supported by well‑equipped workshops and classrooms. Set among green spaces, the school also offers boarding, although numbers declined during the crisis. Currently, about 110 boys live in the main boarding house and approximately 30 girls board at Ste Thérèse. With Sr Monica and Parish Priest of Paita What stood out was the gentle but genuine way the Marist spirit is lived. Champagnat Day was celebrated with a school‑wide Mass on 6 June, and a Jubilee Year cross was created featuring a heart at its centre. We also learned about the quiet pastoral work of a staff member of the Pastoral Team, who offers voluntary faith‑based activities outside school hours, as formal Religious Education is not permitted during class time. This kind of gentle ministry reflects the Marist ethos and holds promise for future engagement. Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (SMSM) Visiting the SMSM was a memorable and grounding experience. We were welcomed by sisters working together outdoors, shovelling gravel - a simple image of humility and shared life. Their hospitality over tea and crepes was warm and genuine, and our conversation, flowing naturally in a mix of French and English, revealed their joy, openness, and quiet strength. It was a moment of true encounter - both grounded and grace‑filled. Meeting with Archbishop Susitino Sionepoe S.M. Our meeting with the Archbishop was marked by warmth and openness, with a shared concern for the Church’s future in New Caledonia. He expressed deep appreciation for the Marist presence over the past 150 years and showed keen interest in supporting future involvement, particularly to meet the growing social and spiritual needs of young people. There was mutual recognition of the importance of forming adults who can accompany youth, and of creating spaces where young people can grow in faith, identity, and leadership. With Archbishop Susutino Sionepoe S.M. Looking ahead, there was also openness to collaboration between the Archdiocese and the Marists in areas such as school pastoral care, youth-focused ministry, and revitalising places like Saint‑Léon as centres for formation and leadership. New Caledonia’s strong internet connectivity offers further opportunities to strengthen ties with the global Marist network through online exchanges and shared resources. The Archbishop welcomed working together to support the mission of the local Church during this time of change. Meeting with Manoël van Aerschodt, Director of Catholic Education (DEC) The DEC oversees a large network of schools serving over 2,400 students and employing about 200 teachers across primary, secondary, and vocational settings. With the gradual transition from religious congregations such as the Cluny Sisters and Little Sisters of Mary, the DEC is navigating pastoral staff shortages while continuing to promote faith-based formation. With the Archbishop and Br Neville Solomon They are exploring ways to activate centres like Saint‑Léon as spaces for youth formation outside regular school hours, including before and after school and on weekends. There is openness to sports and community projects that enhance youth engagement. Despite recent social and political unrest, Catholic schools largely avoided damage, and the resilience of their communities is a key strength to build on. My visit confirmed what has long been true - the Marist presence in New Caledonia is not measured only by buildings or numbers, but by the quiet, faithful witness of those who serve here. In schools, parishes, and community life, the Marist spirit is alive - often in small, almost hidden ways - yet with a depth that touches hearts. View more pics: Contributed by Mark Pauschmann, Executive Director for Province Ministries.

The strong and enduring Marist connection between Aotearoa New Zealand and Tonga was honoured last month through a special project to restore the graves of two Brothers who played important roles in establishing and strengthening the Marist presence in Tonga. From 19 to 26 August, Br Samisoni, the only Tongan Marist Brother in the Province, was in Tonga alongside former Brothers Brendan Hickey and Brian McKenzie, undertaking restoration work on the graves of Br Urban Howie and Br William McIntosh at Lapaha, Tonga. Br Urban Howie's grave in Tonga The graves have not been upgraded for many years. The restoration included remodelling the graves, sealing the grave vaults and installing new headstones. One of the graves has already been partly remodelled, with further work continuing during the visit. It was a true team effort. Brothers Patrick and David provided vital assistance throughout the project. New headstones were prepared in Auckland and shipped to Tonga, while Brother Samisoni and Brendan Hickey maintained close contact with key people in Tonga, including the Principal of Takuilau College and former students. Their ongoing coordination helped ensure that all local preparations and arrangements were carefully organised. Br William McIntosh's grave in Tonga While the work is practical, it is also deeply symbolic. The graves belong to two Brothers whose lives were closely connected to the story of the Marist Brothers in Tonga - a story that began with years of requests, grew through the establishment of schools and communities, and continues today through the generations of students and families who have been part of the Marist mission. Work in progress: The first Marist mission in Tonga Before the 1970s, there was already a strong Marist connection with Tonga. The original Marist mission in Tonga began on 30 June 1842, when Fr Joseph Chevron and Br Attale Grimaud arrived in the country with the Vicar Apostolic and around 30 Tongan Catholic converts from Wallis. The missionaries were given permission to establish themselves at the fort of Pea on Tongatapu by the local high chief, Moeaki’i. Despite receiving protection from Moeaki’i, the Marists had very limited resources and faced difficult conditions during the early years of the mission. The work crew proudly gathered at the grave of Brother William, where the final result of their efforts received a ritual blessing Br Attale played an important role in establishing the new mission. In addition to helping construct the mission house and church and attending to its practical needs, he became well known among the local population for his medical skills. He treated everyone regardless of their background - Catholic or Protestant - which was significant at the time and became particularly respected for his work as a doctor and surgeon. Br Attale died on 7 August 1847, and the whole population of Pea turned out to pay their last respects to him. The centennial cross erected in 1942 in the Ha’atoka Cemetery at Pea stands above his tomb. At the completion of the work, a blessing service was held at the beautifully restored graves The Marist mission continued to develop in the following years. By the time Br Ptolomee Royer was appointed to Tonga in September 1859, the political and religious environment had changed, with greater religious tolerance allowing the Marists to expand their presence. Br Ptolomee worked in several parts of Tongatapu and was also known for his practical skills, particularly as a builder and dentist. He contributed to the development of the mission through his work constructing buildings and providing medical and dental care to the local community. Br Ptolomee died on 5 September 1863, aged 42, and was buried at Ma’ufanga near the cemetery cross he had constructed. Br Samisoni, Brendan Hickey and Brian McKenzie were guests of honour at Takuilau College. They joined staff and students for a local celebration of the 150th anniversary of Marist education in Aotearoa New Zealand The graves of Br Attale and Br Ptolomee remain part of the wider history of the Marist presence in Tonga and pre-date the arrival of the Marist Brothers in the country more than a century later. A new Marist mission The decision to re-establish a Marist presence in Tonga came after many years of requests from the country’s Bishops. Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, two successive Bishops of Tonga had approached the Marist Brothers in Aotearoa New Zealand about establishing a community in the country. Bishop Patelisio Finau SM, who served as Bishop of Tonga from 1972 to 1993, continued those requests, seeking the Brothers’ assistance in developing a new secondary school in a rural district on the main island of Tongatapu. For Bishop Finau, the vision was about more than establishing another school. He wanted to provide young men of his diocese with an alternative to the priesthood, while also developing a college that would serve young people in a rural part of Tonga. In 1976, as part of the centenary celebrations of Marist education in Aotearoa New Zealand and the Pacific, the Provincial and the Brothers agreed to establish a community in a new Pacific country. Tonga was chosen. The new community would be based at Lapaha, the only Catholic village in Tonga, where a secondary school was being developed. The Brothers would begin their work at the start of 1978, giving them time to learn about the country, its culture and language while construction of the school was completed. Cardinal Soane Patita Paini Mafi and Br Samisoni cut the cake to celebrate the 150 years anniversary of the first Marist Brothers' school in Aotearoa New Zealand. Among those chosen for the new mission was Br Urban Howie, who had just completed his term as Provincial of Aotearoa New Zealand, Br Christopher Poppelwell and Brendan Hickey. Br Christopher took up residence in Tonga in July 1977, Brendan followed in September, and Br Urban arrived in December. By January 1978, the new community had come together at the presbytery in Lapaha. The Marist mission in Tonga had begun. Building Takuilau College The school that the Brothers had been asked to establish became Takuilau College. It began modestly in temporary buildings, but the school grew rapidly, with enrolments increasing by around 80 students each year. In its early years, the staff included a local priest, Marist Brothers, Tongan lay teachers and a Mercy Sister from Aotearoa New Zealand. By late 1978, the school had moved to a new property, and enrolment had reached around 320 students. A cultural welcome from the students at Takuilau College Br Urban played a central role in those early years. Alongside his work as a teacher, he was Director of Catholic Education and helped guide the development of the new school and the wider Marist presence. Unlike an established school, Takuilau had no history or traditions to inherit. This gave the Brothers and the local community an opportunity to create something new. As Brendan later recalled, the community developed what became known as “The Takuilau Way”, with the College’s name and motto placing Mary at the centre. The school itself became a community project. Parents and parishioners worked alongside the Brothers, digging foundations, mixing concrete and helping construct the buildings. Their contribution was also important in meeting the requirements of donor agencies, which expected local communities to contribute to projects in kind. It took almost 10 years to complete the school facilities. In 1986, Takuilau College was finally blessed by Bishop Patelisio Finau and officially opened by His Majesty King Taufa’ahau Tupou IV. Moving beyond Lapaha The success of Takuilau College encouraged Bishop Finau to ask the Brothers to consider establishing a second school in Ha’apai, in the central island group, when another religious congregation was unable to take up the work there in 1979. A small Catholic secondary school, St Joseph’s College, had been established in 1977 in the old convent and former primary school at Pangai on Lifuka. Because Catholics were a small minority in the area, the school operated as a community college and was open to non-Catholic students as well. Cardinal Mafi addresses the gathering at Takuilau College to celebrate 150 years of Marist education in Aotearoa New Zealand Br Urban travelled to Ha’apai with Br William McIntosh to meet the local people and consider plans for the development of a new school in the mission compound. It was a natural extension of the work the Brothers had begun at Takuilau, but it also marked the beginning of Br William’s deeper participation in the Marist mission in Tonga. On 1 February 1982, Marist Brothers involvement with St Joseph’s began with 250 students from Class Seven to Form Five. The Form Five class was the first School Certificate class in Ha’apai. Renovation of the school continued over the following years, with Bishop Finau blessing the new main block in November 1983. Br Urban remained closely involved in the school until the end of 1984, when he stepped down as principal of St Joseph’s and returned to Takuilau. His life in Tonga, however, was nearing its end. Death and continuation of the mission In early April 1986, Br Urban suffered a heart attack and was admitted to hospital. He appeared to be making a slow recovery, but barely a fortnight later, on the morning of 19 April, he died in the care of the nurse caring for him, coincidentally a former student of his from Ha’apai. After almost a decade of service in Tonga, Br Urban had become deeply connected to the country and its people. He chose to be buried there and was laid to rest at Loma Cemetery in Mu’a, close to the graves of the pioneer Marist Fathers. He was widely mourned. Br Samisoni, Brian McKenzie and Brendan Hickey with the staff at Takuilau College Br Christopher later took his place in Ha’apai as superior and principal of St Joseph’s Community College, serving there from 1986 to 1992. For much of that period, the community was made up of two Brothers, with Br Edward Clisby joining Br Christopher. Br William McIntosh also spent varying lengths of time in Ha’apai during these years and his presence proved particularly important in 1989, when the community was badly affected by hepatitis and its members were incapacitated for several months. He continued to contribute to the Marist mission in Tonga until his death in 1990. An enduring legacy In 2005, the Brothers withdrew from Tonga, but the school continues to thrive. Today, Takuilau College is led almost entirely by local teachers. Its former students are contributing across Tonga and around the world in education, government, business, the Church and many other fields. A number have also gone on to the priesthood and religious life. The restored graves will stand as a lasting reminder of Br Urban and Br William, and of the generations of Marist Brothers, students, families, teachers and local communities who together helped build a Marist presence that continues to bear fruit today. -Based on an interview with Brendan Hickey, with additional information from Far Distant Shores by Br Edward Clisby.

Saturday, 15 August, the Feast of the Assumption of Mary, was the occasion for a special gathering of the Brothers in Timor-Leste at Vila Marista Boa Mãe, Triloka. The gathering unfolded in three parts. Brothers reflecting on the Five Calls of the General Chapter In the first part, 27 Brothers and three novices, currently undertaking their pastoral program from the Tudella Novitiate in Sri Lanka, gathered to reflect on the Calls of the 23rd General Chapter, held last year in the Philippines. We were happy to welcome Br Angel Medina, Director of the Marist Novitiate in Tudella, who was visiting the novices in Lautem. Using the Chapter theme, “Home for All, River of Life”, the Brothers gathered around a blue cloth symbolising the Gier River. Five large stepping stones represented the five Calls of the Chapter: Vocation, Spirituality, Community, Governance and Leadership, and Mission. Brothers in front of the Chapel at Triloka The Brothers then divided into small groups along the "Gier" to focus on one of the Calls. Two key questions framed the discussions: How does this Call touch my heart as a Brother today? What does this mean for our shared life and mission today in Timor-Leste? The mix of cultural backgrounds - Timorese, Pasifika and Australian - brought a rich variety of perspectives to the conversations. A summary from each group was later shared with the wider group. Novice John Chipuruka (Solomon Islands) sharing with his small group The second part of the gathering was the celebration of the Eucharist for the Solemnity of the Assumption. The 10 postulants and eight aspirants joined the celebration, led by the Scholastic Brothers and celebrated by Padre Abraao, SDB (Salesian). It was the second time since the opening of the Triloka Chapel in September last year that only the Brothers and those in formation had gathered together to celebrate the Eucharist. The vibrant singing and joyful celebration made the occasion memorable for everyone. Towards the end of Mass, the newly created statue of Nossa Boa Mãe (Our Good Mother) was blessed. The new statue of Nossa Boa Mãe (Our Good Mother) being blessed by Padre Abraao, assisted by Br Salvador The third and final part was a festive dinner accompanied by a celebration of music and dance. Melanesian dancing was led by Postulant Formator Br Raphael Fakaia and the postulants, followed by Timorese dancing and singing led by the Scholastics. The evening concluded with a selection of Australian folk songs, including Click Go the Shears, organised by Br Rod Thomson and his merry band. The Assumption gathering certainly put a renewed spirit into the hearts of all those gathered and helped to strengthen our fraternity from the oldest to the youngest. It is good for us to be together as Brothers! View more pics from the day: -Br Greg McDonald, Provincial Delegate for Timor-Leste and Cambodia

From 14 to 16 August, 14 students gathered in Mittagong for the Game Changers LaValla Leadership Camp. Jenifer Miller, NSW/ACT Regional Coordinator for Marist Youth Ministry, reflects on the camp and the memorable experience it was for the young people who attended. Fourteen enthusiastic Year 10 Game Changers students from Marist Canberra, Red Bend Catholic College Forbes, St Patrick's Marist College Dundas, and Parramatta Marist High School travelled to Mittagong from 14 to 16 August for a memorable leadership formation experience. Over the weekend, students explored what it means to be a Christian leader in the way of St Marcellin Champagnat. Through a variety of interactive workshops, small group discussions, reflective activities, and fun team challenges, participants deepened their understanding of leadership and the Marist charism. A key focus of the retreat was servant leadership, with students learning that true leadership is centred on serving others, acting with humility, and building strong, supportive communities. Through shared experiences and meaningful conversations, students discovered how they can lead with compassion and make a positive difference in their schools and local communities. Beyond the learning opportunities, the retreat fostered new friendships across the four schools. Working together in small groups and participating in a range of challenges helped students build connections, strengthen their confidence, and develop a sense of belonging within the wider Marist family. A special thank you to our guest speaker, Br Lawrie McCane who truly exemplifies humble, servant leadership in the Marist tradition. He generously shared his life story, insights, and wisdom with the students, offering a powerful example of what it means to lead through service, faith, and compassion. His message resonated strongly with our Game Changers students, inspiring them to reflect on their own leadership journeys. We also extend a huge thank you to Sienna Lissio, a Year 12 student from St Patrick's College, Dundas, who gave up her time to volunteer with the team. As Vice-Captain of her school and a respected student leader, Sienna shared her experiences and practical leadership advice with the group. Our students greatly appreciated her authenticity and wisdom particularly as she prepares to complete her final year of schooling. Her reflections provided valuable insights into student leadership and demonstrated how young people can make a meaningful difference within their school communities. View more pics:

Jasmine Brown, Association Councillor of the Marist Association of St Marcellin Champagnat Australia, visited Cambodia for the first time in 2019. Since then, she has carried a special affection for the beautiful country and a deep admiration for the incredible work of the Marists there at the Lavalla school, Cambodia’s only government-approved school for young people with disabilities. When Jasmine returned to Cambodia this year, she felt a familiar stirring of emotion. Reflecting on her return, she described it as feeling “less like a visitor and more like someone coming home.” Read her reflection: Full of Grace - Transform the World with God’s Love There are places in our lives that leave an imprint on our hearts. Places that linger long after we have departed. Places that draw us back, not because we must return, but because a part of us never really left. For me, that place is Lavalla. When I first travelled to Cambodia in 2019, I had no idea that a country would become such a significant part of my story. I could never have imagined that years later I would find myself returning repeatedly, feeling less like a visitor and more like someone coming home. After my visit to the Lavalla School in 2022, organised by Br Chris Wills and Br Tony Burrows, I left with a promise - “I’ll be back.” At the time, it felt like a simple commitment. Yet, I have since returned in 2024 and again, this year, in 2026. Each visit has deepened my connection to the people, the spirit and Marist mission of Lavalla. Lavalla is an experience of belonging. Every time I arrive, I am reminded of what it means to be welcomed unconditionally. To be received simply for who you are. In my ‘world’ I so often feel hurried, divided and transactional. Lavalla feels so profoundly different. It feels like Gospel. As I reflect upon why this place continues to call me back, I realise it is because Lavalla continually reveals God’s love in its simplest and purest form. It is found in the laughter of children, in the gentle encouragement of teachers and Brothers, in the dignity afforded to every person, and in the unwavering hope that sits at the heart of this Marist family. The children are not defined by limitations. They are defined by possibility. And every time I visit, they transform me far more than I could ever hope to transform them. Our theme, “Full of Grace – Transform the World with God’s Love,” resonates so deeply with my experience of Lavalla. When I think of grace, I think of encounters. I think of a smile. A hand reaching for mine. A conversation that stays with you. A sense of peace that reminds you God is present. Every time I have returned to Cambodia, I have discovered that transformation begins not through grand plans but through presence. It begins when we allow ourselves to be touched by another person’s story. When we allow our hearts to soften. When we choose relationship over distance. Lavalla has taught me this truth repeatedly. Within the first hour of arriving at Lavalla this year, I found myself searching for a familiar face. Four years earlier, I wrote here about a little girl named Meanglorng. In 2022 she nestled her head gently into my arm and unknowingly gave me one of the most sacred moments of my life. This June, the moment we saw each other, we both burst into tears. Not tears of sadness, but tears of relief, joy and love. The little Grade 4 girl I had first written about is now a confident Year 8 student in high school. As we embraced, I found myself overwhelmed by gratitude. Gratitude for the gift of knowing her story and for the privilege of witnessing her growth. In these moments, you understand more deeply than ever what it means to belong to a global Marist family. Meanglorng’s tears told me she remembered and my tears told her I never forgot. She remains one of God’s greatest gifts in my life. This visit also brought another grace-filled reunion with Im, a teacher who had once been a student at Lavalla herself, and who now dedicates her life to educating the next generation. Over the past four years, I have often prayed for Im and her husband, as they longed to start a family. During this year’s visit, Im arrived at Lavalla on maternity leave for a special visit, in her arms a beautiful baby girl. As I held that precious child, I found myself overwhelmed once more. I thought about the prayers whispered over the years. The hopes entrusted to God. The waiting. The uncertainty. And now here she was. A little miracle in my arms. I realised that returning to Lavalla is no longer simply about revisiting a school. It is about returning to people whose lives have become intertwined with my own. People I pray for. People who continually reveal God’s presence to me. What makes me especially grateful is knowing that none of this would have been possible without the Marist Association. Had I not been at an Australian Marist Solidarity dinner in 2019 because of my involvement with the Association, I may never have travelled to Lavalla. I may never have encountered the remarkable Marist Brothers, teachers and young people who have shaped my understanding of what it means to be a Marist in today’s world. The Association has given me more than opportunities. It has given me perspective. It has widened my heart. It has connected me with people and places that have revealed God in new and unexpected ways. Most importantly, it has reminded me that the Marist mission is not something we inherit passively. It is something we enter into. It is something we live. Standing in Cambodia this year, surrounded by familiar faces and stories that have continued to unfold since my last visit, I reflected on how much can change in five years. Little girls become young women. Teachers become mothers. Visitors become family. And through it all, God’s grace continues its quiet work. Grace has a face. Grace has a name. Grace arrives disguised as a reunion, an embrace, or a long-awaited answer to prayer. Lavalla remains a place where every child is known. Every child belongs. Every child is loved. As I boarded the plane home, I found myself smiling at the promise I made years ago. “I’ll be back.” The truth is a part of me never leaves and I suspect that I will be forever returning. Lavalla is no longer simply a place I visit. It has become a heart space, like home. A place where I have seen Christ in the faces of others. A place where God’s love has transformed me, one encounter at a time. -Jasmine Brown, Association Councillor, Marist Association of Saint Marcellin Champagnat This article was originally published on the Marist Association of St Marcellin Champagnat’s website. Read it here.

Br Rajakumar Soosai Manickam, General Councillor and Link Councillor for Oceania, is visiting the Marist communities in Aotearoa New Zealand from 17 to 29 August. He was warmly welcomed at the beginning of his visit by Br Peter Horide, Provincial Delegate for Aotearoa New Zealand. Br Rajakumar at St Paul's College During his time in Aotearoa New Zealand, Br Rajakumar will visit the various Marist communities, meet with Brothers, participate in Provincial Council meetings from this week and gain a deeper understanding of the Marist mission and ministry across the country. Br Rajakumar with the Champagnat Marist Centre Staff in Auckland View more pics: This is a developing story; more pics and updates to follow.

Less than a year after it began, the Montagne Street Ministry in Port Moresby has grown from a simple feeding program into a wider network of support for people experiencing homelessness. Named after the dying young boy whose encounter with Marcellin Champagnat left a lasting impression on the young priest, the ministry was initiated by Br Mark Kenatsi and members of the Marist family as part of the re-establishment of the Marist Brothers community in Port Moresby. Br Tim with the young men in Port Moresby who needed urgent medical care Its initial aim was simple - to provide a meal each week to people living on the streets. The ministry began with 100 food packages, prepared and distributed by the Brothers and members of the Marist family. Today, that number has more than doubled, with around 220 people reached every second Sunday evening across three locations in Port Moresby, including Boroko and 3-Mile. Brothers Cyril Benora and Bomes Tukana have played a significant role in the ministry alongside their other commitments, while the five young aspirants dedicate much of their Sundays to preparing and distributing the food. Their regular presence on the streets has also allowed them to build meaningful relationships with the young people they encounter, turning what began as a simple meal into an opportunity for connection, friendship and support. But regular contact with people on the streets has led the ministry beyond simply providing a meal. Helping with employment Through conversations with the people they meet, the Brothers and their lay supporters recognised that while food provides immediate relief, many of those they serve also need longer-term opportunities to rebuild their lives. Employment, education and skills training have therefore become an increasingly important part of the ministry’s work. Through relationships with local businesses, training providers, health professionals and other lay partners, the Brothers have begun identifying people who are ready to take up employment and connecting them with opportunities. Last month, a local construction company approached the Brothers about employing young people looking for a fresh start. The ministry selected four men, who have since secured full-time employment with the company. Three young men who got employed by the construction company The four men have now received their first paycheques and are taking the next important step towards rebuilding their lives, looking for rental accommodation and moving off the streets. Impressed by their work ethic and commitment, the company’s manager has offered to employ a further 15 people through the ministry - creating even more opportunities for people to move towards stable employment and greater independence. Education and skills training are also opening new possibilities. The Brothers got three young people experiencing homelessness to enrol in short courses at Don Bosco Technical School, while another 15 participants recently completed a week-long sewing workshop designed to develop skills that could lead to employment or self-employment. Teaching employable skills Held from 27 to 31 July at the Catholic Bishops Conference of Papua New Guinea and Solomon Islands (CBCPNGSI), the sewing workshop was organised by the CBCPNGSI in collaboration with the Marist Brothers and the National Family Life Commission. The program was designed to provide practical skills to the people on the margin, or those experiencing homelessness and strengthen their employment opportunities. Noel Langu, Family Life Projects Officer, said the Commission partnered with the Marist Brothers because of their direct involvement with families through their various ministries. Participants at the sewing workshop Fifteen people took part in the training, eight of whom were experiencing homelessness. The workshop was facilitated by Sr Maria Goretti Leison OLSH, who has 26 years of teaching experience and previously managed the Limana Vocational Centre in Korobosea, Papua New Guinea. The week concluded on 31 July with a gathering at the CBC headquarters, where participants received sewing machines so they could continue developing their skills and potentially begin generating an income. The Brothers also joined the participants for the closing celebration, bringing a cake to mark the completion of the training. From 17 to 21 August, a follow-up sewing workshop will be held for the same 15 participants. Following the completion of the first workshop, it was recognised that an additional week of training would help participants further develop their skills and build the confidence needed to start small businesses of their own. The Brothers brought a cake for the participants at the conclusion of the program For Br Mark, initiatives such as the sewing program are an important part of the ministry’s future direction. While education remains central to the Marist mission, he recognises that conventional educational pathways are not always accessible to people living on the streets. The Street Ministry is therefore exploring practical alternatives that can help people develop skills, find employment and build greater independence. Responding to urgent health needs The ministry’s regular presence on the streets has also enabled the Brothers and their volunteers to identify health problems that might otherwise go untreated. During one recent feeding program, Br Tim from Aotearoa New Zealand, who was visiting Port Moresby, and Br Mark’s team noticed a young man with a large, infected ulcer on his leg. He was struggling to walk and was being carried by other young people living on the streets. When Br Tim, Br Mark and the team took him for medical attention, they discovered that four other boys were also suffering from serious ulcers on their legs. These boys had been trying to clean their wounds with water from an open drain beside the market where they were living. Getting them medical attention immediately became a priority. Through Junior Kolam, one of Br Mark’s lay partners, the team contacted a doctor who agreed to meet them in the hospital car park. The doctor examined the young men and provided prescriptions, helping them avoid what could otherwise have been a lengthy wait in an overcrowded Emergency Department. Participant showing his creation The team then visited several pharmacies in search of the prescribed antibiotics. Eventually, they found a pharmacy with the medication in stock. After learning about the Montagne Street Ministry and its work with people experiencing homelessness, the pharmacist offered to provide a 50 per cent discount on future medication for people supported by the ministry. The experience highlighted another important dimension of the Street Ministry's work. Its regular presence on the streets allows the Brothers to identify problems early and bring together people and organisations that can provide practical assistance. Building a network of support The Brothers and the Marist family are now in negotiations to lease a standalone house in Boroko as a base for the Street Ministry. Located 10 to 15 minutes’ walk from the three locations where the ministry currently operates, the house would provide a safe space where people can shower, rest and access support for other urgent needs, including education, medical care and counselling. Its focus is increasingly on identifying opportunities for education and training, connecting people with employers, responding to urgent health needs and building relationships with organisations willing to provide support. The ministry is now seeking more businesses, companies, churches and other organisations willing to partner with it through employment, training, health services and other forms of assistance. View more pics: