September 3, 2025 marked a new and beautiful chapter in the history of the Marist Mission in Timor-Leste. The first Marist school in the country, Colégio Marista, was officially inaugurated. After years of planning and months of hard work, the school stands as a shining and concrete expression of the vibrant Marist spirit in the beautiful land of Timor-Leste. The Bishop of the Diocese of Baucau, Dom Leandro Maria Alves, inaugurated and blessed the new Marist College building in Lautém on 3 September 2025. During the ceremony, he expressed heartfelt gratitude to all the generous people who contributed to the building of the College. Following the inauguration, Br Paul Kane, the Principal of the school warmly welcomed the guests, honouring them with traditional tais . Br Peter Carroll with Bishop Dom Leandro Maria Alves (left) “We hope the school becomes a wonderful place where children can discover their talents and develop themselves,” said Br Paul Kane. He also sincerely thanked the families who generously offered land and those who donated toward the construction of the school. Br Paul expressed his gratitude to Bishop Dom Leandro for supporting the school as part of the Church’s mission in Timor-Leste, especially in Lautém. Br Paul Kane, the Principal of Colegio Marista Lautem welcoming the guests with traditional tais In a short address, Br Peter Corr, President of FMTL, gave thanks and appreciation to all who contributed, especially Francisco Fernandes Xavier, Lucas da Cruz, and José Fernandes Xavier, representatives of the large family ( uru-ha ) who generously offered the land where Colégio Marista now stands. Meanwhile, Br Peter Carroll, Provincial of the Star of the Sea Province, emphasised that Marist education is built on the “Four Fs”: Faith, Family, Freedom, and Future.   The Provincial further underlined three important points: that Faith  is the essential foundation for the students in this school; Freedom  must be lived as opportunities to broaden vision and open possibilities; and Future  is entrusted to the children who will one day become leaders of the nation. “We hope and pray that the youth will continue to walk in the way of Mary,” he said. From Left - Br Paul Kane, Br Peter Carroll, Bishop Dom Leandro Maria Alves and Br Peter Corr Bishop Dom Leandro Maria Alves also expressed thanks, “We give thanks to God for all the blessings He has poured upon us - for this beautiful land we have received, and for the generous people willing to offer their land so that a good school could be built for our children. We thank the families who offered their land to the Marist Brothers, who, with great dedication, not only built this school building but also bring the wisdom of the Marist tradition to our children.” Br Paul Kane All the best to Colegio Marista! May our Good Mother and Marcellin continue shinning their light on the school. View more pics Baucau Diocese Media: View more pics from ICFP Media: Story and images courtesy of the Diocese of Baucau Media and ICFP Media

The celebrations marking the 25th anniversary of the Marist mission in Timor-Leste continue. Following the joyful inauguration of the first Marist school, Colégio Marista Lautém, on 3 September , another milestone was reached just days later. The new occupants of the beautiful formation house in Triloka! On 5 September 2025, the Bishop of the Diocese of Baucau, Dom Leandro Maria Alves, together with Br Peter Carroll, Star of the Sea Provincial, inaugurated and blessed the new Vila Marista Boa Mãe  formation house in Triloka. The Brothers had already moved into the new house earlier in June . With its opening, there are now officially three Marist Brothers’ communities in Timor-Leste - a remarkable sign of how the Marist presence continues to grow in the region. Br Peter Carroll with Bishop Dom Leandro inaugurating the house Both the Scholasticate and Postulancy programs have now successfully relocated to their new home in Triloka, Baucau, further strengthening Marist formation in the country. May Our Good Mother and Marcellin continue to watch over and guide our young Brothers in Triloka. View more pics: Pic courtesy - Media Diocese Baucau

From 27 to 29 August, the Provincial Council held its regular meeting in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand. In attendance were Provincial Br Peter Carroll, Vice Provincial Br Darren Burge, Province Secretary Br Kevin Wanden, Provincial Delegate for Aotearoa–New Zealand Br Peter Horide, Provincial Delegate for Pasifika Br John Hazelman, and Council Member Br Sefo Une. Br Afa Afese from Kiribati was also present. Joining the meeting online were Councillors Br Graham Neist and Br Greg McDonald, Provincial Delegate for Cambodia and Timor-Leste. The Councillors visited Sacred Heart College, where they toured the new facilities The gathering opened on a celebratory note, as the Brothers joined in marking the Jubilees of several Auckland-based Brothers . The Council members also took the opportunity to connect informally with Brothers from across the country through a meet-and-greet event. Conversations at this gathering were warm and wide-ranging, reflecting both the diversity and the shared mission of the Province. The three overseas-based trustees - Brothers Peter, John, and Kevin - were able to attend a New Zealand Trust Board business meeting in person, where safeguarding was one of the key topics discussed The days that followed were devoted to the Council’s formal business. A number of important topics were discussed, including governance matters, the life and mission of schools, professional standards, and safeguarding practices. These discussions were wide-ranging and constructive, with an emphasis on how best to support the ongoing work of the Province and to respond to the needs of communities across Oceania. Provincial Councillors receiving reports on healthcare, finance, commissions, and mission areas including Timor-Leste and Cambodia The Council also made time to visit Sacred Heart College. The Brothers were welcomed by the school community and given a tour of the campus. Of particular interest was the new science block, which is currently under construction and expected to be completed within the next two months. The visit provided a chance to see first-hand the developments taking place in the school and to acknowledge the commitment of staff and students to excellence in learning and facilities. View more pics: Brothers Darren and Peter in front of the display of Greg Davis (SHC Old Boy, Australian rugby representative) Deputy Headmaster, Boarding, Nick Croxford along with Brothers Darren, Peter and Kevin in the hostel's recently remodeled junior accommodation Showing the dining room On a tour of the SHC Hostel At the new science block, due for completion within the next two months The new science block under construction Meet and greet with the local Brothers and Br Afa (extreme right)

The Star of the Sea Postulancy English Program began in 2017, originally located in Davao, Philippines. By 2019, the program saw significant growth, with the number of Timorese postulants exceeding the available space and prompting changes to accommodate the expanding community. To address this, the Provincials of SoTS and Marist District Asia (MDA) decided that the Timorese would begin their English studies not in Davao, but at MAPAC in Manila, where Br Matthew Green, Formator, accompanied them. This arrangement became known as “Stage 1.” After six months, they would transfer to Davao to join the other postulants, since by then the “Stage 2” group would have moved on to begin their novitiate in Tudella, Sri Lanka. Today, the program has grown from these humble beginnings. What follows is an account by Br Matthew of how the English Program has evolved over the past six years. The Star of the Sea Postulancy English Program has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 2019-2020 at MAPAC in Manila. Originally designed as a face-to-face initiative, it began with three ability-level classes taught by our dedicated Filipino teachers: Erik Reamillo, Racel Jimenez, Cherrie Remoroza. Each weekday morning, postulants gathered for three hours of immersive English instruction. Teacher Cherrie, MAPAC 2020 When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in early 2020, the program was quickly forced to adapt. Without access to computers, postulants would huddle around a single mobile phone to attend online classes - testament to their eagerness to learn. Our heartfelt thanks go to Erik, Racel, and Cherrie, whose creativity and professionalism kept the program alive through incredibly challenging circumstances. Teacher Erik, MAPAC 2020 By the end of 2020, the postulancy had relocated to Timor-Leste. With most foreign nationals having returned home due to the pandemic, local English teachers were few and far between. Once again, our Manila-based teachers rose to the occasion, continuing to teach online. This time, secondhand laptops were sourced for each postulant, internet access was upgraded as much as possible, and Zoom and Google Classroom accounts were created. English lessons resumed - albeit not always in traditional classrooms. With patchy internet, lessons took place on verandas, in dining rooms, dormitories, and even the chapel! Online classes at Teulale 2023 Fast forward four years: new laptops have been secured, the internet connection has significantly improved, and in 2025 the postulancy moved into a new residence in Triloka, complete with dedicated learning spaces. The program remains under the guidance of our original Manila teachers, who continue their committed service online. In MAPAC In 2024, the team welcomed a new member: Laura, a Timorese graduate of our Teachers’ College in Baucau. Laura brings fresh energy to the program with in-person support and leadership of the SRA Reading Laboratory sessions each afternoon. (Yes, the classic SRA readers are still in use - and still as valuable as ever!) Br Paul Bailey also contributes twice a week, Zooming in to help postulants improve their pronunciation through guided reading. Teacher Laura, Triloka 2025 Most recently, in 2025, the program expanded its reach beyond Timor-Leste, welcoming a candidate from Korea’s aspirancy program. This collaboration has enriched all involved, offering a valuable opportunity for intercultural exchange and deepening the spirit of international fraternity. Classes today in Triloka What began as a small classroom initiative in Manila has become a resilient, adaptive, and growing program - continuing to support the formation and education of our young men on their vocational journey. The Star of the Sea Postulancy English Program stands as a testament to the power of commitment, community, and creativity in mission. Contributed by Br Matthew Green, Formator, Marist Postulancy, Triloka, Timor-Leste

From Brothers travelling for new assignments to schools hosting intercultural immersions, the Province has always been buzzing with excitement and energy. Here are a few updates: Br Clement Heads to Santo, Vanuatu Br Clement left Fiji to join Brothers Jean Marie and Bonaventure in their school ministry at Santo, Vanuatu. After a six-month stay at the Champagnat Marist Centre – Lomeri community in Fiji, which he greatly enjoyed, he now looks forward to his new assignment. All the best, Br Clement! St Joseph’s Tenaru School Hosts Fundraising Bazaar Students, teachers, staff, parents, and members of the Former Pupils Association came together for a fun-filled Bazaar to raise funds for much-needed water tanks for the school. Cultural dance at the bazaar School principal Jeffery Poe’a led the raffle draw, while former students - now part of the MoSA Team - organised and managed several stalls, with Chris Akosawa, chair of the School Board, overseeing the event. Fundraising has long been part of the school’s tradition, and the support of the entire school community continues to be vital. Br Fergus Garrett Engages with Early Childhood Education Team Br Fergus Garrett spoke with the teachers, staff, and students of the Early Childhood Education department at Corpus Christi College, Suva, Fiji. Even after retiring, Br Fergus shows no signs of slowing down! Br Fergus Garrett speaking to the teachers, staff and students of the Early Childhood Education department of Corpus Christi College, Suva, Fiji. Br Kees and Fr Steve Filipo looks on. Community House Renovations and Sustainable Practices This year, significant efforts have gone into renovating community houses, including the original Brothers’ house at Mabiri, Bougainville. Embracing sustainability over a ‘throw-away culture,’ old materials are being repurposed: at Carew St, Suva, broken bookcases have been transformed into organic keyhole vegetable gardens, and brown cardboard boxes from the community and neighboring school are now used effectively for mulching in the gardens. Renovation in Mabiri Fiji schools in immersions to Australia and New Zealand Brother Kees van der Weert, Mereoni Matanitobua, and Lekima Nasau are travelling to Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand as part of their school immersion programmes. This two-week cultural and educational exchange is aimed at strengthening connections across the Province. Br Kees van der Weert, Mereoni Matanitobua (Principal of the Marist Champagnat Institute Suva) and Lekima Nasau (Assistant Principal Marist Brothers High School Suva) at Nadi International Airport waiting for their flights

On 13 August, 52 senior boarders from St Augustine’s College, Cairns, gathered for an evening talk with Br Tony Leon, who spoke on the theme “This Life - Making good life choices for oneself and for others.” Br Tony with the boarders  Drawing inspiration from the film The Bucket List, Br Tony invited the boarders to create not a “bucket list” but a Life List - a vision of who they want to be and what they want to do to live a full and meaningful life. “Instead of thinking about what to do before you die, I asked them to think about what makes a life well-lived,” he explained.   After the students shared their dream lists with one another, Br Tony posed a simple but challenging question, “Did any of your dreams involve doing something for another person?” He noted that very few did, describing it as “a good wake-up call for us to think: who and what is my life about?”   The talk was also grounded in the Marist theme for 2024, “Pilgrims of Hope – Look Beyond.” As Br Tony said, “I wanted to encourage the students to look beyond themselves and even their lifetime, to consider what they can do and who they can be for others and for future generations.”   He shared a saying that struck a chord with the students: “When you pass away, what you did for yourself will die with you. However, what you did in this life for others will live on in others.”   To illustrate the message, Br Tony spoke of John Goddard, American explorer and traveller, who at 15 years old wrote down 127 life goals and went on to achieve 111 of them. His determination, Br Tony suggested, shows the power of making intentional choices.   Reflecting on the evening, Br Tony said the most rewarding part was seeing the enthusiasm of the boarders. “My favourite moment was witnessing the energy and hope of the students as they talked about their future years. It was inspiring to see them dream big,” he said.

On Sunday 24 August, the Aotearoa New Zealand Brothers gathered to celebrate the Jubilees of Brothers Richard Dunleavy (75 years), Michael Taylor (75 years), and Dunstan Henry (70 years). Guests for the occasion included our confreres from Kaikohe and Palmerston North, as well as Br Afa Afaese from Kiribati, Br Kevin Wanden, the Provincial, Br Peter Carroll, and the Vice Provincial, Br Darren Burge, among others. On behalf of Br Michael, who is in care, Br John Koorey receives his plaque and candle A simple and effective ceremony of thanksgiving included the presentation of a candle and a plaque to each of the jubilarians, in recognition of his many years of fidelity, and in gratitude for his Marist life and mission. Congratulations, dear Brothers. May your lives continue to inspire all who choose to walk this path. View more pics: Br Peter Carroll addressed the jubilarians Br Murray Kelly Br Murray speaks about Br Dunstan Brothers enjoying going through some wonderful pictures from the archives Br Richard Dunleavy Br Colin Divane Br Colin speaks about the jubilarians Br John Koorey gave tribute to Br Michael Taylor's many years in Marist life To begin the jubilee meal, Br Darren says a prayer of thanksgiving A wonderful meal and a happy celebration! Br Peter Carroll and Br John Koorey Br Peter Carroll at the Jubilee Our 70 th  Jubilarian Brother Michael, who wasn’t able to be with us (older pic): Seen here with his sister, Pat (older pic) With some Old Boys in 2016

From 6 to 8 July, young adults from across Australia gathered at The Hermitage in Mittagong, New South Wales, for the Young Adults’ Retreat. Takdoda Cheng from Marist Youth Ministry was among the participants. What follows is a heartfelt reflection on the experience he and the other young adults shared. Without knowing much about the coming days; we opened our hearts, minds and souls to each other and to God. We started physically unpacking our bags into the spiritual home of Mittagong, but also spiritually unpacking the meaning behind a pilgrim. In our conversation, we explored questions like: What would you put in a backpack? What journey has transformed your worldview? Who has walked alongside you through an important season of life? These simple yet insightful questions encouraged us to open up, share our stories, and better understand each other's experiences and values. Continuing from this, we reflected on key moments from our lives; our early childhood, primary school years, early teenage years and young adulthood. It provided an opportunity to truly see how far we’ve all come in our own lives, reassuring us even though we may feel stuck or unsure of what the future holds - we still have the chance to learn and mature further. Our next day started with a journey around Mittagong, taking in the beauty and natural sounds of God’s creation - giving us the chance to slow down and be in our own thoughts. While walking to a new space, we were given the chance to reflect upon how we are able to heed our vocations, and to be guided by Mary’s tenderness and Christ’s love. However, we also acknowledged the grief, disappointment and challenges that we may encounter on the journey - leading to a deeper reflection about the seasons of life. Just as the earth moves from a cold and bitter winter into an inviting and flowering spring, and then into the warmth of summer, so too do our lives move through seasons - times of loss and darkness that, through love and faith, give way to growth and renewal. This image of life’s journey led us to ponder another question - What truly defines a pilgrim? Is it their faith, their openness, their path? One girl offered a beautiful response, “A pilgrim requires a malleable soul" - a willingness and vulnerability to be changed. Later, in conversation with our Emmaus partners around The Hermitage, we shared moments of joy, loss, transformation, and our hopes for the future. In that sacred space, we recognised that each of us was a pilgrim, walking our own unique journey of faith and life. At the start of our last day, we walked through the labyrinth with something which stood out to us from the ground - a leaf, a branch, a stick - an object to symbolise something we were letting go of. From negative feelings of resentment, regret, sorrow, to something that was holding us back - it was a chance to let it go and move forward in our lives. At the end of the retreat, we moved to the chapel for the last time, giving affirmations to a partner whom we prayed and walked with from the first night. We gave them a shell to remind us of our pilgrimage together at Mittagong and place our names in the sacred heart so that we may continue to walk with Jesus. The retreat gave us a chance to step away from our busy lives with studies, work and the stresses of life, and look within ourselves. It was beautifully structured in a way which looked to our past; uncovering pivotal moments of our lives which shaped the person we are today. It also gave us the opportunity to reflect; what was holding us back? What could we try to improve in our lives? How could we look beyond? We all came from different stages of life: some just starting uni, others nearing the end of their tertiary education and some already working full time. Despite these differences, our little pilgrimage to Mittagong united us together: allowing for introspection and the sharing of wisdom with others - forming noteworthy relationships in the process. View more pics: Contributed by Takoda Cheng Pics by Marist Youth Ministry

During the mid-year school holiday, the Colégio Marista Lautem teaching staff travelled to Australia to observe some Australian schools in action. This professional development experience included observations of teaching and learning, conversations with Australian teachers on a range of matters and debriefing discussions after each of the school visits. The Collegio Marista Lautem team in Sydney Teachers must be continuous learners and the two-week experience was approached with an eagerness to learn and discern what can be appropriately adapted to the Timorese educational situation. Those involved in the visit were: the four class teachers – Br Jacinto Fuli Falo, Br Joel Da Costa, Professora Julieta Morais and Professora Ana Veronica Da Silva Belo – Senor Augusto Ornai Ximenes (Director) and Br Paul Kane (Principal). Br Jacinto with a student In Saint Francis Catholic College The group visited Marist College North Shore (Sydney), Marist College Bendigo and Assumption College (both in Victoria) and two non-Marist schools in Sydney – Santa Sophia College, Gables and Saint Francis College, Edmondson Park. In each school, the group was made to feel very welcome and the offer of an on-going relationship was gratefully accepted. The Collegio Lautem staff with the staff at Santa Sophia Of course, there was time for some sight-seeing! Enjoying the Sydney Opera House Julieta Morais with a student While the travellers returned to Timor-Leste for the third and final term (periodu) somewhat weary from a very full fortnight’s program, there was an appreciation for the shared experience and a satisfaction for the insights gained. View more pics: Contributed by Br Paul Kane, Principal, Collegio Marista Lautem.

A jubilee is a profoundly meaningful milestone in the life of a religious Brother. It is a celebration that honours decades of dedicated service - years marked by unconditional faith, resilience, and deep commitment. Families, friends, and fellow Brothers gather to pay tribute not only to the achievements and sacrifices, but also to the spirit of community and purpose that has guided each Brother throughout his journey. On 17 August, Jubilee Masses were held in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, drawing the Marist family together to express gratitude for the extraordinary commitment of the Jubilarians. Brothers who reached remarkable milestones - 80, 75, 70, 60, and 50 years of service - were honoured in heartfelt ceremonies. During these celebrations, Br Peter Carroll, Provincial of the Star of the Sea Province, presented commemorative plaques to Br Robert Badior (75 years), Br Peter Ciezak and Br Geoff Kelly (50 years each), and Brothers Jeffrey Barrington and Peter Conolly (50 years each). In Melbourne, Vice Provincial Br Darren Burge joined in recognising Brothers Doug Walsh (70 years), Gregory McCrystal (70 years), Br Bernard Riley (60 Years) and Br Mark O’Connor (50 years). In Brisbane, Br Graham Neist congratulated Br Roger Burke (70 years) and Br Bernard McGrath (60 years). Sydney: From left to right: Brothers Geoffrey Kelly, Peter Ciezak, Peter Conolly, Jeffrey Barrington, Robert Badior, Tom Chin (Province of East Asia) Sydney Jubilee Melbourne: (Br Mark Paul, MC), Brothers Bernard Riley, Mark O’Connor, Greg McCrystal, Doug Walsh and Vice Provincial Br Darren Burge   Brothers Dough Walsh and Gregory McCrystal Brisbane: Brothers Bernard McGrath and Roger Burke with Vicar General Br Ken McDonald Br Graham Neist presenting Br Roger Burke with his Jubilee Certificate Hear from some of our Jubilarians: Having people around who have known you for sixty years, and who have shared so many of those experiences with you, is a real joy. The Brothers I have known for all that time are part of that shared journey, and it is a wonderful gift to gather together, to remember the past - both the good times and the difficult ones - and to reflect on how much we have helped and supported one another along the way. That, really, is the purpose of these meetings. Looking back, my journey seems to have gone by so quickly. I have been fortunate to experience a wide variety of situations and cultures, and I have never regretted any of it. Every stage has moved me forward, challenged me, and spurred me on. It is a good and worthwhile thing to pause, to reflect on one’s life - its difficulties as well as its hopes - and to see the richness of what has been lived. -Br Geoff Kelly Congratulations, Br Geoff Kelly!  Br Geoff Kelly receiving his plaque from Br Peter Carroll I am very pleased with what Br Peter Carroll said - it is wonderful to receive accolades for what we have done. Looking back, I feel very happy with my journey. It has been a busy one: I spent fifty years in the classroom, and now in retirement I still find joy in serving the community. I help in small ways - buying food, and beverages for the Brothers to keep them happy! It has been a great journey, and I am grateful that my health is good and that I can continue to contribute. -Br Peter Ciezak (60 years) Congratulations, Br Peter Ciezak!    Br Peter Ciezak receiving his plaque from Br Peter Carroll I think today has been wonderful because all my family has been able to make it - except for my dad, who has passed on. They have all supported me along the way, so it means a lot that they could be here with me. As for how it feels - well, you just have to keep breathing for 50 years and you will get there! But honestly, it is very special. It’s good that they recognise the things that you have been to the community, the Brothers, and the kids. And it is also good for the family to hear more about the things I haven’t always shared with them. So yes, it truly has been a very special day! -Br Jeffrey Barrington (50 years) Congratulations, Br Jeffrey Barrington!  Br Jeffrey Barrington receiving his plaque from Br Peter Carroll It is my pleasure to be with so many Brothers who have lived the religious life for so long, and it fills me with great delight that I was amongst such people!  -Br Robert Badior (75 years)   Congratulations, Br Robert Badior! Br Robert Badior receiving his plaque from Br Peter Carroll For me, it was something of a high point. Having my family and so many friends around, and people I have interacted with over the years, was absolutely wonderful. Hearing Peter Carroll’s speech, with a few things that others have said about me over the years, was a little surreal. It was a wonderful day - absolutely wonderful. I even found myself wondering, was it really me they were talking about? -Br Peter Conolly (50 years) Congratulations, Br Peter Conolly Br Peter Conolly receiving his plaque from Br Peter Carroll Congratulations, dear Brothers. May your lives continue to inspire all who choose to walk this path. View more pics: Sydney Jubilee Melbourne Jubilee Brisbane Jubilee

Every fortnight, Br Peter Carroll, Provincial of the Star of the Sea Province, shares a reflective editorial that invites the Marist community into deeper spiritual insight and contemplation. In a world increasingly marked by uncertainty, conflict, and the erosion of shared values, the Feast of the Assumption of Mary offers a luminous signpost of hope. For the Marist family, the Assumption is not merely a theological affirmation; it is a spiritual compass pointing toward renewal, trust, and divine promise. This feast is a cornerstone of our Marist spirituality, deeply entwined with the mission to follow Jesus as Mary did. The Assumption, declared dogma by Pope Pius XII, came at a time when the world was reeling from the devastation of World War II and bracing for the ideological and nuclear tensions of the Cold War. Europe was scarred, families were broken, and the human spirit was weary. Secularism was rising, unfolding alongside a growing sense of existential questioning and spiritual searching. In this bleak landscape, the Church proclaimed a truth that soared above the rubble: Mary, the Mother of God, was assumed body and soul into heaven. It was a declaration not just of doctrine, but of defiant hope. For the Marists, whose charism is founded in humility, simplicity, and a deep Marian devotion, the Assumption is a celebration of the ultimate vindication of faithfulness. Mary’s life was marked by quiet service, suffering, and surrender. Her Assumption is the divine affirmation that such a life is not forgotten—it is glorified. This is profoundly encouraging for Marists, who often work in the margins, in education, mission, and pastoral care, supporting the young and the vulnerable, away from the spotlight but close to the heart of the Church. The timing of the dogma’s declaration is crucial to understanding its spiritual power. In 1950, the world needed a reminder that death and destruction do not have the final word. The Assumption was that reminder. It was a theological and pastoral response to despair, a proclamation that heaven is real, that grace triumphs, and that the human body—so often violated in war—is destined for glory. It was a message that resonated deeply with the Marist mission to bring Christ to people in a way that is gentle, inclusive, and full of hope. Today, we find ourselves in a similarly turbulent time. War and aggression once again dominate our world. The global community is fractured by ideological battles, environmental crises, and the erosion of truth. Many young people struggle to find meaning in a world that feels increasingly unstable. In this context, the Feast of the Assumption is more relevant than ever. For us, the Assumption is a call to lift our eyes and hearts. It reminds us that our mission is not just to serve, but to inspire. Mary’s journey—from Nazareth to Calvary to the heights of heaven—is a roadmap for every believer. It tells us that fidelity in the small things, courage in suffering, and trust in God’s promises are never in vain. This is the essence of hope—not wishful thinking, but a confident expectation rooted in divine love. The Assumption also speaks to the Marist commitment to education and formation. In schools and other settings, Marists are called to be witnesses of hope, forming young minds not just in knowledge, but in wisdom. In a culture that often glorifies cynicism, the Assumption invites educators to speak of transcendence, of beauty, of the dignity of the human person. It challenges us to present faith, not as a relic of the past, but as a living, breathing source of joy and purpose. Moreover, the Assumption is a deeply communal feast. For Champagnat Marists it is our patronal day. It reminds us that salvation is not a solitary journey. Mary’s glorification is a promise for all humanity. In communities and families, this truth is lived out in mutual support, prayer and a commitment to justice and peace. The Assumption calls Marists to be builders of communion, to resist the forces of division, and to embody the unity that Mary now enjoys in heaven. In the face of today’s challenges, the Assumption offers a counter-narrative. It tells us that the human story is not doomed to end in chaos. There is a divine trajectory, and Mary is its radiant sign. For Marists, this is not just comforting, it is empowering. It fuels the courage to continue the mission, to walk with the marginalised, to teach with compassion, and to pray with confidence.   As we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption, let us remember that hope is not a luxury, it is a necessity. It is the light that guides our way, the fire that sustains our vocation, and the gift we are called to share with a world in need. Mary’s Assumption is not just her triumph; it is our invitation.  To believe. To serve. To hope. -Br Peter Carroll, Provincial

From Br Angel Diego’s impactful visit to the beautiful Solomon Islands, where child rights and solidarity took center stage, to the strategic Finance Team meeting in Fiji focused on strengthening our ministries, and the heartfelt celebration of Vanuatu’s 45th Independence Day in Madang, the Province has been alive with vibrant activity. These moments reflect our ongoing commitment to faith, community, and service across the Pacific. Read on to discover how these events are shaping our journey and deepening our connections throughout the region. Welcome to the Solomons, Br Angel! Br Angel Diego, from the Secretariat of Solidarity in Rome, is currently visiting the Solomon Islands. This visit is part of our Marist Foundation for International Solidarity (FMSI) commitment to assist countries in their periodic reporting on the Rights of the Child - a review the Solomon Islands will soon undertake. Br Angel receives a warm Pasifika welcome, complete with the famous coconut juice, at the Brothers’ house in Laumanasa. At St Joseph’s Secondary School, Tenaru - the largest Catholic secondary school in the country, managed by the Marist Brothers for over 40 years - Br Angel spoke to a group of Year 8 students about Child Rights, encouraging them to see themselves as active advocates for their peers. View more pics: Happy Vanuatu Day from Madang! The Marist Family in Madang, Papua New Guinea, gathered at Divine Word University for its monthly prayer meeting and to belatedly celebrate Vanuatu’s 45th anniversary of independence, which had officially passed the previous Wednesday. Led by Br Fereole, the occasion was marked with gratitude and fellowship, and concluded with a feast of traditional PNG Mumu dishes. View more pics: Fiji Marist Brothers Trust Board Meet Members of the Fiji Marist Brothers Trust Board met in Vatuwaqa for their regular Trust Board and Country meetings. Such gatherings are vital for discussing the Brothers’ lives, ministries, and mission, as well as encouraging open dialogue for greater effectiveness. After the meeting, the Carew Street community travelled to Lomeri for an overnight period of silent recollection. On Sunday, they joined the Lomeri community for Sunday lunch. View more pics: Happy Birthday, Abraham Hihiru! On 2 August 2025, friends, family, and the Marist community of Solomon Islands gathered at Pagoda, Henderson, to celebrate Abraham Hihiru’s 50th birthday - a moment to honour his journey, values, and many contributions over five decades. Alfea Hou, daughter of the longest-serving teacher, Theresa Hou, shared heartfelt memories of growing up in the close-knit Tenaru community, where Abraham and his wife embodied the true Marist family spirit. She expressed deep gratitude for Abraham’s role as a godparent to many, including herself and her husband, Henry, who were supported by Abraham during their marriage. Jimmy Hoasihita recalled his first appointment to St Joseph’s Tenaru as a privilege, noting the lessons in simplicity that Abraham consistently lived out. Known affectionately as “Aba,” Abraham lit up the evening with his trademark humour. In his reflections, 'Aba' emphasised the deeper meaning of life’s milestones, "Birthdays shouldn’t be overly celebrated. Whether it’s 50, 60, or 70, each day of life is just as important as the next. The first day we’re born is as significant as any milestone birthday. Life is a journey, and every moment of that journey - from the first breath to the last - is a gift.” He concluded by thanking all who have supported him along the way, especially the Marist Brothers for their role in his spiritual formation.