During the recent school holidays, a group of Year 10 and 11 students from Parramatta Marist High School, Sydney, embarked on the school's inaugural immersion to Fiji, where they experienced firsthand the global Marist mission through encounters with local communities, schools and ministries. Parramatta Marist student Dimiriti The group was welcomed by the Marist Brothers' community in Suva and quickly immersed in the daily rhythm of community life, joining the Brothers for meals, prayer, reflection and meaningful conversations that offered a deeper insight into a lifelong vocation of service. A central focus of the immersion was the partnership with the Marist Champagnat Institute (MCI), St Marcellin Primary School and the Marcellin Angels Kindergarten, where the students became active participants in school life. They shadowed local students, attended assemblies, participated in classroom learning and experienced the daily routines of Fijian education alongside their newly formed buddies. At Marist Champagnat Institute Fiji Through sport, conversation, learning and laughter, cultural differences became opportunities for connection, reminding students that the Marist family extends far beyond national borders. One of the most significant aspects of the immersion came through time spent with local families. Students were welcomed into homes for meals and conversations, experiencing the renowned warmth and hospitality of the Fijian people. Perhaps the most striking lesson came not from organised activities but from the everyday culture of the school itself. Students observed the immense pride that MCI students took in their school, demonstrated through the care they showed for their Institute. At the conclusion of each school day, classrooms and grounds were cleaned collectively by the students with enthusiasm and purpose. Mrs Erin Smith (right), Year 11 Coordinator Beyond the school communities, the immersion introduced students to the rich cultural heritage of Fiji. Visits to local museums, markets and parishes provided valuable context for understanding the nation's history, traditions and vibrant identity, while participation in Sunday Mass at Raiwaqa Parish further strengthened the shared faith that unites Marists across the world. Each evening concluded with prayer, journaling and group reflection. These moments encouraged students to process their experiences, recognise the impact of the relationships they had formed and consider how the lessons of the immersion might shape their own lives back home. Mrs Erin Smith, Year 11 Coordinator and one of the staff members accompanying the students, reflected on the experience, stating: Participating in the Inaugural Fiji Immersion was a deeply rewarding experience, both professionally and personally. Visiting Marist schools and engaging with students, teachers and local communities provided valuable insight into the Marist mission in a different cultural context. I was particularly struck by the genuine warmth, generosity and hospitality shown by everyone we met. Despite having so little in material items, the Fijian people welcomed us with open hearts, kindness and joy, leaving a lasting impression. The experience reinforced the importance of relationships, service and the Marist values that unite our schools across the world The Fiji Immersion reflects Parramatta Marist High School's commitment to forming young men who are not only academically capable, but compassionate, globally aware and committed to making a difference. It is an experience that develops empathy, broadens perspectives and inspires students to become servant leaders within their own communities. Parramatta Marist students Jose and Jayden with students in Fiji As the group returned to Australia, they brought home far more than memories. They returned with a renewed appreciation for the universal Marist mission, lasting friendships and a deeper understanding that our shared humanity transcends geography, culture and circumstance. In the spirit of Saint Marcellin Champagnat, the immersion served as a powerful reminder that to be Marist is to walk alongside others with humility, compassion and hope, wherever in the world that journey leads. Note: This article has been reproduced with minor edits. It was originally published on Parramatta Marist High School Sydney's social media page and was written by Anthony Baaini, School Archivist.

The past few weeks have been busy across Pasifika. From creating new opportunities for young people experiencing homelessness in Papua New Guinea to promoting vocations in Samoa and strengthening Marist educational partnerships in Bougainville and New Caledonia, Marists across the region have continued to strengthen communities and respond to local needs. Papua New Guinea: Three Young Men get Jobs through Street Ministry The Marist Brothers' street ministry in Port Moresby continues to grow and now operates under its new name, Montagne Street Ministry, inspired by Jean-Baptiste Montagne, whose encounter with St Marcellin Champagnat gave rise to the Marist mission. For almost a year, the ministry has been serving people experiencing homelessness and other social challenges in Port Moresby by providing weekly meals and a welcoming community. From the outset, its vision has been not only to respond to immediate needs, but also to become a bridge connecting vulnerable young people with opportunities that can help them rebuild their lives. That vision has now become a reality for three young men who had been living on the streets for several years and have been part of the Montagne Street Ministry. After learning about the ministry's work, the manager of a local construction company contacted the Brothers and offered employment opportunities to three young people. The ministry identified three young men and connected them with the company. They commenced work this week. Autonomous Region of Bougainville: Education leaders visit St Joseph's Mabiri Senior education officers visiting Buka for their annual conference took the opportunity to visit St Joseph's College, Mabiri, on 17 July. The delegation was warmly welcomed by students and staff, who had the opportunity to showcase the work, achievements and ongoing development of St Joseph’s Mabiri College. Samoa: Samoa Marist Vocation Team Visits Savai‘i During the first week of the school holidays, the Marist Brothers' Vocation Promotion Team travelled to Savai'i to conduct a four-day vocation program across the parishes of Falealupo, Mauga and Samalaeulu. The team, comprising Rev. Setefano Tavoi, Novices Pedro and Alfredo, and Br Steve Vaea, met with many young people who expressed genuine interest in learning more about the Marist Brothers and their mission. The program provided an opportunity to share stories of Marist life, encourage young people to listen to God's call, and deepen their faith through prayer and reflection. The team expressed gratitude for the generous hospitality shown by each parish community and reaffirmed the importance of continuing to proclaim the Good News through witness and accompaniment. View more pics: New Caledonia: Marist Association reflects on the Champagnat Family Asssembly in Fiji Members of the Marist Association in New Caledonia recently gathered at the Marist Missionary Sisters' Retreat Centre for a meeting focused on the outcomes of the Marist Association gathering held in Fiji earlier this year. Pierre Chanel de Takaniko, who attended the Fiji gathering as a delegate, shared an in-depth reflection on the key themes and discussions from the conference. He was joined by Pascaline Elika de Takaniko, his wife and Br Jean Paul Delesalle, who also participated in the Fiji event, enabling the local community to gain a deeper understanding of the conversations and priorities that emerged. The gathering concluded with afternoon tea.

Almost one year after its launch, the Buy A Tree (BAT) initiative continues to grow from strength to strength. In its first year, the initiative has raised almost AUD $5,000 to support the planting of native trees across the Province. These funds are being used to grow and plant native species in Marist communities, supporting environmental sustainability and conservation efforts. Today, trees are being planted across the Province, with recent plantings taking place in the Solomon Islands and Cambodia. At LaValla School in Cambodia, students from Marist College Canberra joined with LaValla students to plant eleven Beng trees, a native Cambodian species that grows in the country’s mountainous regions. The trees were sourced from a local nursery in Takhmao City, near LaValla School. The planting of Beng trees is a significant conservation effort, as the species has become increasingly limited in Cambodia due to unsustainable harvesting for furniture production. Through the BAT initiative, the students were able to learn about the importance of protecting native species and the role forests play in supporting biodiversity, providing habitats for animals, offering shade for communities and helping address the impacts of climate change. The joint planting activity brought together students from both schools and provided an opportunity to deepen their understanding of caring for the environment and recognising forests as an important national resource. View more pics:

After two weeks of profound learning, connection and shared experiences, the young Marist Brothers participating in the QUEST Program at MAPAC have now completed their third week of formation. With only six days remaining in this rich formation journey, there is a growing awareness among the brothers that this unique experience is drawing to a close. Yet, the conversations remain as lively as ever, and the depth of group sharing continues to reveal personal courage, insight and a willingness to trust one another with their sacred stories. Week Three provided opportunities for the brothers to deepen their understanding of community life, Marist spirituality and their own role in shaping the future of Marist mission. Exploring community as an ecosystem The week began with Br Tony Leon from Star of the Sea Province guiding the Brothers through the theme of "Communities as Ecosystems." Drawing on the words of Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe, who reflected, - "To be a religious is to choose a strange form of life, and we will need our sustaining environment: Prayer, Silence, Community. Otherwise we will not thrive." - the brothers explored what allows communities to flourish. Brothers in a session on communities Through this workshop, they examined the importance of communication and relationship-building, using principles from Restorative Practices to explore healthier ways of listening, responding and living together. Discovering the heart of Champagnat Mission Apostolic Spirituality For three days, the QUEST Brothers were also accompanied by Br Michael Green, who presented on Champagnat Mission Apostolic Spirituality. The sessions invited the Brothers to reflect more deeply on the Marist way of life and the meaning of their vows. In their evaluations, many participants shared that hearing the human stories of the first Marist Brothers helped bring new understanding to the vows they profess. Brothers with Br Michael Green Several brothers commented that they recognised this spirituality as deeply connected to their own journey and identity as Marists. Beyond the formal sessions, Br Michael continued conversations with the group through evening Q&A sessions, including some light-hearted “Marist myth-busting” discussions that strengthened their sense of connection and shared history. Responding to the dreams of young Marists A highlight of the week was hearing from Br Jacinto Fuli Falo from Timor-Leste, who shared his experience as part of the young Brothers' team that presented their hopes and dreams to the delegates of the XXIII General Chapter held last year in the Philippines. Brothers Jacinto Fuli Falo (Timor-Leste) and Petero Navuku (Fiji) The Brothers reflected on these dreams and identified several commitments that felt particularly urgent and relevant within their own cultural contexts. As an initial response to the dreams of young Brothers, the QUEST community also prepared and sent a video message to Superior General Br Peter Carroll. Building trust through creativity and joy Community life continued to grow through a range of social activities, including improv theatre sessions. The enthusiastic participation of many Brothers demonstrated not only individual courage but also the trust and encouragement that has developed within the group. Brothers bonding over fun activities These moments of laughter and creativity have become an important part of building a strong and supportive QUEST community. A physical journey of water and wonder On Sunday, the Brothers stepped away from the classroom for a community outing to Pagsanjan Falls. The group canoed upstream and rafted beneath the powerful waters of the waterfall, experiencing the beauty and force of creation in a very physical way. Brothers with Br Tony Leon at the Pagsanjan Falls The adventure provided another opportunity for the Brothers to strengthen their bonds, share moments of joy and reflect on the image of "water from the rock" - a powerful reminder of renewal, life and God’s presence in their journey. View more pics: -Br Tony Leon

From 7–19 July 2026, two groups from Marist College Canberra are visiting the Solomon Islands for immersion experiences focused on strengthening educational partnerships, cultural exchange and learning. The first group comprises six educators participating in a Staff Immersion experience. They are visiting schools in Honiara and working alongside local educators to share resources, explore new approaches to teaching and learning, and discuss emerging challenges facing education, including the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom. The second group includes ten students and three staff members who are participating in a Student Immersion experience, following the success of the first student immersion in 2025. The immersions are built on the Marist values of encounter, solidarity and mutual learning. They are a two-way experience that recognises the richness of both communities, with participants sharing culture, faith and educational practices. The staff members have generously committed two weeks of their school holidays and contributed financially towards this volunteer opportunity. As part of their preparation, students have worked with the College community to raise more than $40,000 in donations. They have brought essential items, including laptops, clothing and books, to support their immersion partners in the Solomon Islands. The immersions form part of an ongoing relationship between Marist College Canberra and Marist and Catholic communities in the Solomon Islands, built on friendship, service and a commitment to walking alongside one another. This is the second Staff Immersion to the Solomon Islands organised by Marist College Canberra, following the inaugural experience in 2024. The Student Immersion builds on the success of the first student experience held in 2025. The programme has been coordinated by Jackson Meke, Education Secretary for the Solomon Islands Catholic Education Office in the Archdiocese of Honiara. Jackson previously visited Marist College Canberra in 2024, further strengthening the relationship between the two communities. The partnership is also supported by the close friendship between the two Archbishops. As part of their time in Honiara, both the student and staff immersion groups also visited the Australian High Commission on 9 July 2026. More updates to follow. View more pics:

After a packed and enriching first week of the QUEST Program, the Brothers have now reached the halfway point of their time at MAPAC. As they settle into the rhythm of community life, the young Brothers are embracing the program with enthusiasm, taking initiative in daily activities. Brothers from the Star of the Sea Province, Marist District of Asia and the Marist Province of South Asia During the second week, one of the highlights was a presentation by Cenacle Sister Perry Inso RC on Contemplative Listening: Living the Vow of Obedience. Through a range of creative and interactive activities, Sr Perry invited the Brothers to reflect on obedience as a way of attentive listening - to God, to others and to the needs of the world. Brothers with Froi Fajardo and Frances Orian The Brothers also explored the Vow of Poverty from a fresh perspective through the theme of Simple Living, led by Froi Fajardo and Frances Orian, members of the Focolare Family. Their witness as consecrated lay people offered valuable insights into living a life of simplicity and provided an opportunity to reflect on both the similarities and distinctive characteristics of the Marist understanding of this vow. Community life has continued to flourish beyond the classroom. The Brothers have shared manual work with the novices, organised card nights and enjoyed evenings of singing together in the many languages represented within the group. Folk songs in Sinhalese, Vietnamese and Tetum were shared, along with a spirited rendition of I Am Australian, reflecting the rich cultural diversity and growing sense of fraternity among the participants. An evening filled with music and songs! Weekly accompaniment sessions have also revealed a deepening and more contemporary understanding of the vows. Participants are recognising that religious life is not defined simply by the profession of vows on a single day, but by the daily, intentional choice to live them faithfully in every aspect of their lives. Brothers having fun during an activity As the program enters its second half, the Brothers continue to deepen their understanding of Marist religious life while strengthening the bonds of community that will support them in their lifelong vocation. View more pics: Read about week 1

The Divine Word University community in Papua New Guinea came together on 1 July to celebrate Br Francis Hough as he marked 60 years as a Marist Brother. The Jubilee celebration was a joyful occasion, with Fr Phil presiding over the Eucharistic liturgy alongside four other priests. The students led the music, while the Sisters beautifully decorated the altar, and Br Francis shared a heartfelt reflection at the conclusion of the Mass. The festivities continued with student cultural dancing, the cutting of a celebratory cake, and ice cream, while the chapel entrance was adorned with blue and white balloons. The celebration followed another enriching experience for Br Francis, who recently accompanied around 70 Divine Word Catholic students to the University of Goroka for a gathering of Catholic tertiary students from universities across Papua New Guinea. As Br Francis celebrates six decades of Marist life, his continued ministry at Divine Word University remains a testament to his lifelong commitment to education, accompaniment and making Jesus Christ known and loved among young people.

The Marist mission in Fiji continues to flourish, with communities finding new and meaningful ways to live the Gospel in the spirit of Marcellin Champagnat. Whether through the commissioning of new Champagnat Marist Lay members, students reaching out to support younger learners, or alumni gathering in prayer and fellowship, each initiative reflects a vibrant and growing Marist family committed to making Jesus Christ known and loved. Here are some of the inspiring highlights from the past month. New Champagnat Marist Lay Members Commissioned A significant milestone was celebrated in June with the commissioning of 11 new Champagnat Marist Lay members - comprising eight adults and three young people from the Champagnat Youth movement, an outreach program of Marist school students in Fiji. The commissioning marks the culmination of a formation journey undertaken through various Marist programs. Following a period of discernment, participants publicly committed themselves to the shared mission of making Jesus Christ known and loved in the spirit of Marcellin. The newly commissioned members pledged to live according to the Champagnat Marist Lay Constitution and the strategic plan developed in Fiji, which is aligned with the Five Calls of the 23rd General Chapter. As a visible sign of their commitment, they received blessed Marist pins. Fiji was the first Marist Province to commission Champagnat Marist Lay members, with the inaugural commissioning taking place in 2023 under the leadership of the then Provincial Br Peter Carroll. To date, 31 lay members have been commissioned. Reflecting the inclusive nature of the Marist charism, the Fiji Champagnat Marist Lay community also includes members from other faith traditions. Four Hindus are currently part of the movement, including the Head of Early Childhood Education at Corpus Christi Teachers College. Marist Students Learning Together, Growing Together Each Tuesday, students from Marist Brothers High School who are members of the Marist Champagnat Youth reach out to younger students at Marist Brothers Primary School through a peer-learning program. Senior students assist Year 7 students in subjects they may be finding challenging, including Mathematics, English and Reading. More than academic support, the initiative fosters encouragement, confidence and friendship, while giving the older students an opportunity to grow as servant leaders. View more pics: Marist Bothers High School Students and Old Boy Unite in First Friday Prayer On 3 July, the Marist community in Fiji gathered for its regular First Friday Masses, a cherished tradition that brings together both students and alumni in prayer. The day began with Marist Brothers High School students celebrating First Friday Mass, gathering as a school community to pray and begin the new month. Later that evening, the Marist Old Boys came together for their monthly First Friday Mass, continuing a longstanding tradition of prayer, and meetings. The gathering provides an opportunity for alumni to pray for one another and entrust the plans and intentions of the month ahead to God. Following the evening Mass, participants received a presentation on the Calls of the 23rd General Chapter, reflecting on how these calls continue to inspire and guide the Marist mission in Fiji. View more pics:

On 4 July, ten new candidates were formally accepted into the postulancy program at Vila Marista Boa Mãe. The ceremony marked an important step in their journey of vocational discernment and formation within the Marist community. The program welcomed seven young men from Timor-Leste and three from the Solomon Islands. Three young men from the Solomon Islands – Augustine Aba, Augustine Parasaia and Gideon Baura – arrived on 19 June accompanied by Br Simon Serero. They were joined on 21 June by seven young men from Timor-Leste: Emiliano da Costa Freitas, Francisco Xavier Araujo, Francisco Taco Coa, João Crisostomo Madeira, Jonisto da Costa Pereira Barros, Leonito Correia Soares and Ramalho De Jesus Correia. The celebration began with a simple prayer in which the young men expressed their desire to continue discerning God’s call in their lives. Surrounded by members of the community, they were welcomed with warmth and encouragement as they committed themselves to this next stage of formation. The postulancy offers time for prayer, community living, study, and deeper reflection as they prepare for possible entry into the Novitiate. Brothers of the Triloka community gathered for the occasion, offering their presence and support. The atmosphere was one of gratitude and hope as we entrusted these young men to Mary, our Good Mother, asking her to guide them as they grow in faith and generosity. Following the ceremony, all shared a simple meal together in celebration. The relaxed gathering provided an opportunity for fellowship and joy, giving thanks for the gift of vocation and the life of our Marist community. Brothers Raphael Fakaia and Matthew Green Formators

Building on the strong foundations laid during the opening few days, the 2026 QUEST program continues to offer participants opportunities for deeper reflection, learning and fraternity as they prepare for Perpetual Profession. With Br Canisio Willrich FMS from the Secretariat of Brothers Today During the first week, the Brothers gained a broader understanding of the life and mission of the Marist Institute through sessions led by Br Canisio Willrich FMS from the Brothers Today Secretariat, exploring the current realities, opportunities and challenges facing Marist Brothers around the world. With Cenacle Sister Linda Lizarda RC - on Loving Relationship - The vow of Celibate Chastity The formation journey also invited participants into a deeper reflection on consecrated life through a thought-provoking presentation by Cenacle Sister Linda Lizarda RC on the vow of Loving Relationship - Celibate Chastity. Her sessions encouraged the Brothers to consider both the gifts and the challenges of living this evangelical vow with joy. QUEST brothers sharing games for the classroom and youth ministry The QUEST Brothers also enjoyed afternoon sports with the first-year novices at MAPAC and a Sunday excursion to the scenic Villa Escudero, where they shared a day of relaxation, fraternity and cultural appreciation. Table Fellowship with a traditional Filipino meal Reflecting on the week, participants acknowledged the spirit of fraternity that characterises the Marist vocation, recognising in one another the relationships and commitment that first inspired their call to religious life. View more pics:

Congratulations to Br Harry Prout from Melbourne, who was recently honoured with the Paul Harris Fellow award at his local Rotary Club's Presidential Changeover Dinner. Named after Paul Harris, the founder of Rotary International, the Paul Harris Fellow is one of Rotary's highest recognitions. It is presented to members and honorary members who have made a significant contribution to Rotary's work and its mission of fostering goodwill and understanding. The citation accompanying the award reads: "In appreciation of tangible and significant assistance given for the furtherance of better understanding and friendly relations among peoples of the world." Br Harry with the award Br Harry received the recognition for his longstanding partnership with the Rotary Club, particularly through its support of Exodus Community, a ministry that has been serving people experiencing homelessness and disadvantage in Heidelberg West, Melbourne since the early 2000s. Over the years, Exodus has become a place of hope and support. Its outreach includes a weekly community meal, youth outreach initiatives, advocacy for those experiencing hardship, and a range of programs that accompany people dignity and respect. Throughout this work, the Rotary Club has been a generous and valued partner, supporting a number of Exodus initiatives. Reflecting on the honour, Br Harry was quick to acknowledge that the award belongs to the wider Exodus community and not just him. "This is really an Exodus award, not a personal one," he said.

On 30 June, Br Peter Thompson passed away in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand. Below is an obituary written by Br Darren Burge, the Provincial of the Star of the Sea Province. It is with deep sadness that I share with you the news of the death of Br Peter Thompson, who died peacefully at 11.00 am on 30 June in Auckland, Aotearoa New Zealand. His health declined sharply in recent days, especially from Sunday, when he lost consciousness. Throughout this time, he remained peaceful and comfortable. Several Brothers visited and spent time with him, as did members of his family. He received the anointing of the sick on Monday, and two of his wonderful carers were with him in the final moments of his life. Peter was 82 years old and had been a Marist Brother for 63 years. Br Peter Thompson FMS 16.05.1944 - 30.06.2026 In June 2019, Peter suffered a serious accident in which he sustained a major leg fracture. The following month, he moved to a nursing home for the physiotherapy and care needed for his recovery. The nursing home became his home in these later years, where he was supported with kindness as his health gradually declined. Peter Frank Thompson was born in Invercargill on 16 May 1944 to Clifford and Ima. He was the third of five children. His eldest brother, a priest of the Dunedin diocese, died in 2004. He is survived by his three siblings. His father was a laboratory assistant, and his mother managed the home. His Southland roots remained dear to him throughout his life. He attended Marist Brothers Invercargill for Forms 3 to 4 and then Marist Brothers Tuakau for Forms 5 to 7. It was here that the seeds of his Marist vocation were planted and nurtured. Following his initial stage of formation, Peter received the habit at Claremont on 12 September 1962, made his first profession on 12 September 1963 and his perpetual profession on 2 January 1969. Peter completed a Bachelor of Science in Maths at Auckland University in 1968 and a Diploma of Teaching in 1973. He continued to develop his professional skills over the years, including gaining credentials in Religious Education and in Teaching English to Students of Other Languages. Peter’s school ministry took him to St Paul’s College, Hato Petera College, Sacred Heart College, Verdon College Invercargill, Marcellin College, Campion College Gisborne, and Takuilau College Tonga. As a teacher, Peter had a gift for meeting students where they were and gently encouraging them forward. Hato Petera College, where he served from 1973 to 1980, held a special place in his heart. As senior dormitory supervisor, he brought steadiness, good humour and a listening ear to a demanding ministry. His pastoral manner helped him build strong relationships with students and their families, and he worked as part of an effective team. He juggled these responsibilities at the same time as being the Head of Department for Mathematics. Peter was appointed to Tonga twice, from 1981 to 1984 and again from 1987 to 1992, serving as Principal of Takuilau College for five years. He loved his time there and formed lasting friendships. His days as a missionary in Tonga gave him greater scope for adaptability and practical initiative. Christmas visits back to New Zealand often included gathering useful objects to enhance the college in Tonga. With characteristic initiative, he readily approached those who might help bring his projects to life: flush toilets, sewing machines, rugby boots, water pumps, desks for classrooms and many other needs. The Bishop of Tonga wrote warmly of Peter’s presence there, noting his innovation, his sensitivity to being in a different culture, his capacity to enlist the help of other teachers with projects, and his excellent communication with the Parents and Teachers Association. His Maths tutoring was highly valued, including by students living in the Tongan royal compound in Landscape Road Epsom. On returning to New Zealand and taking up his appointment at Marcellin College, he continued to engage warmly with the local Tongan community and was always pleased to return to Tonga for jubilees and other school celebrations. Marcellin College became Peter’s last community and held a cherished place in his life. Over his years of involvement there, he held several positions of responsibility, including Director of Religious Studies and Assistant Head of Department of Mathematics. He was also appointed Community Leader of the Brothers’ community at Marcellin College. This practical generosity was not limited to Tonga. Alongside his teaching of Maths and Science, Peter loved the outdoors and practical, hands-on work. Tools, wheels and electrical fittings were among the valued interests of his lively days. He enjoyed spending part of the school holidays working on the property at Cooks Beach, and in the days before schools employed groundsmen, he willingly turned his hand to maintenance tasks, especially those involving the tractor. At Hato Petera, this earned him the affectionate nickname “Spanner”, for he was rarely far from the small repairs and adjustments that school life required. In these simple, practical and generous ways, Peter embodied the humility, modesty and love of ordinary work so dear to Marcellin Champagnat. Those same qualities shaped Peter’s relationships. He met people with warmth, kindness and easy friendliness, forming genuine and lasting connections. His outgoing nature, cheerful outlook and readiness for conversation made him approachable. Back in New Zealand, Peter was never one to remain in the classroom if a practical need called for attention, whether up a ladder, down in a basement, around the community or somewhere on the school grounds. Once he found a task that needed doing, it drew his full concentration, and he pursued it with diligence until it was complete. He was very active as a fundraiser. Peter did not seek attention or status; rather, he offered himself through ordinary acts of care, practical help and faithful companionship. In a deeply Marist way, he created welcome and belonging, especially among young people, and bore witness to service lived with humility, generosity and a Brother’s heart. His life showed how practical action, humble service and genuine care could become a quiet but powerful expression of Marist mission. Peter will be remembered with affection for his cheerful presence, his kindness and the fidelity with which he lived his Marist vocation. We give thanks for his long and faithful life as a Marist Brother. We remember a man of goodness, generosity, perseverance, self-sacrifice and loyal service, whose life was shaped by simplicity and a deep affection for the people and places entrusted to him. I offer my heartfelt sympathy to Br Peter Horide, the Brothers of Aotearoa New Zealand, Peter’s family, and his many friends. We are deeply grateful to the nurses and carers and to the Health Team, for the gentle and faithful care they gave Peter in his final years. The vigil will be held on Friday 3 July at 9.45 am at Davis Funeral Home, Dominion Road, Mount Eden. The Requiem Mass will be celebrated on Saturday 4 July at 10.30 am at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, Church Street, Onehunga. The burial will follow at Waikaraka Cemetery, Onehunga. May he now experience the full embrace of God’s love, and may Mary, our Good Mother, welcome him gently into the fullness of life. -Br Darren Burge Provincial