The Marist family was out in full force at the Australian Catholic Youth Festival, held from 30 November to 2 December 2025. The festival, a vibrant meeting place for young people from across the country, brought together students, schools, ministries, and religious communities in a joyful celebration of faith and connection. L-R Back:  Andrea Grant (MLF/MYM), Pat O Reilly (Marist180), Jeni Miller (MYM), Tony Leon (MLF), St Marcellin Champagnat, Bishop Brian Mascord (Wollongong), Joey Khalil (MYM), Justin Golding  (MLF/MYM), Catherine Glenister (MYM), Pope Leo XIV. L-R Front: Lucas Sharpley (MYM), Michael Callinan (MLF), George Bishop (MYM) This year, the Marist presence was unmistakable. Representatives from across our ministries came together - Andrea Grant (Marist Mission & Life Formation (MLF) /Marist Youth Ministry (MYM)), Patrick O’Reilly (Marist180), Jenifer Miller (MYM), Br Tony Leon and Br Michael Callinan (MLF), Bishop Brian Mascord (Wollongong), Joseph Khalil (MYM), Justin Golding (MLF/MYM), and Catherine Glenister (MYM), all gathering under the watchful and ever-encouraging presence of Marcellin Champagnat. At the Marist Expo stall, visitors streamed through, including several Bishops who stopped by to greet the team: Greg Homeming (Lismore), Tim Norton (Broome), Brian Mascord (Wollongong), Tim Costelloe (Perth), and Colomba Macbeth-Green (Wilcannia–Forbes). But perhaps the greatest highlight was the constant flow of school groups and former students who came by to reconnect - and, of course, to have their photo taken with Marcellin. Among them were groups from, Assumption College, Kilmore, Marist Catholic College, North Sydney, Red Bend Catholic College, Forbes, Marist College, Kogarah, St Augustine’s College, Cairns, Marist Sion College, Warragul, Marcellin College, Bulleen, Marcellin College, Randwick, Marist College, Bendigo, Corpus Christi College, Maroubra, Trinity College, Auburn, and St Joseph’s College, Samoa.

Br Darren Burge, the newly appointed Provincial of the Star of the Sea Province, is in Timor-Leste this week for his first international visit since assuming office. The trip provides him with an opportunity to engage directly with the Brothers across the country and to observe firsthand the steady growth of the Marist mission in the region. Brother Darren Burge and Tony Caddy with the Scholastic Brothers at Vila Marista Boa Mãe, Triloka   His visit commenced at the Triloka Formation House in Baucau, the newest Marist community in Timor-Leste and home to both Postulants and Scholastic Brothers. The Scholastics, having recently completed their final semester at ICFP, welcomed him warmly. In a gesture of cultural respect, Br Melquiano Obe presented him with a traditional tais.  The gathering offered valuable time for the young Brothers to speak with their Provincial about their formation, community life, and the realities shaping their vocational journey.   Br Darren later visited ICFP, Timor-Leste’s leading teacher training institute established by the Marist Brothers in the years following the nation’s independence in 2000. During his meeting with Director Br Paul Gilchrist, he was briefed on the institute’s ongoing contributions to the development of the country’s education sector and its enduring partnership with Marist communities across Timor-Leste. Brothers Greg McDonald, Darren Bruge and Lecio Heckler with the aspirants at Casa Marista Aspirancy, Teulale A significant part of his itinerary was the visit to Colégio Marista Lautém, the first Marist school in the country, where he met with Br Paul Kane, the Principal. This marked his first opportunity to see the school since its official inauguration earlier this year by then-Provincial Br Peter Carroll, now Superior General, alongside Bishop of Baucau Leandro Maria Alves. He noted the school’s rapid progress and its emerging role as a key educational presence in the region.   He also toured the completed Triloka Formation House, which he had last seen a year earlier while still under construction. Observing the finished building now alive with community life, he described it as “a striking testament to the vitality of the Marist spirit in Timor-Leste.”   Brothers Darren and Raphael Fakaia with the Postulants at Triloka Throughout his visit, Br Darren expressed his appreciation for the hospitality extended by the young Brothers and his confidence in their leadership. He emphasised that they represent the future of the Marist mission in Timor-Leste - men who will accompany young people, contribute to the strengthening of education, and help shape the country’s ongoing development. View more pics:

In Solomon Islands, current available data indicates that roughly 6% of the population lives with deafness or hearing impairment (Jones, 2024). Due to inadequate infrastructure and national data collection systems, this number could be significantly higher. The available data suggests that some cases of deafness in Solomon Islands may be linked to side effects of malaria and/or associated medication. In other instances, hearing impairment may occur in children born to mothers who did not take malaria medication during pregnancy, as the condition can be passed on in utero. AMS Luci Sitanggang and Father Paul O'Sullivan at San Isidro in 2023 Another contributing factor is “swimmer’s ear,” an infection of the outer ear canal commonly caused by water remaining in the ear after swimming or showering. In countries such as Australia, this condition can often be treated through minor surgical procedures, like the insertion of grommets; however, access to such interventions is limited in Solomon Islands due to scarce healthcare resources. Meningitis and rubella are also among the leading causes of hearing loss. All diseases are highly preventable, highlighting that hearing impairment in Solomon Islands is closely linked to broader issues of poverty and the failing healthcare services provided by the government. Barriers for deaf community in Solomon Islands Among the challenges faced by the deaf and hearing-impaired community in Solomon Islands, isolation is one of the most significant, resulting from difficulties in communicating and being understood. This is closely linked to the stigma that can surround being born without hearing, which may result in individuals and their families being treated differently due to the shame that is associated with this form of disability.    Program Manager, Luci Sitanggang and Father Paul O'Sullivan being received by students during an AMS Project Monitoring visit to Solomon Islands As a result, many are withdrawn from public life and are unable to participate fully as members of their communities. A report by Australian Catholic University (ACU) found that, for many deaf participants, much of their time was spent alone or within their household. When they did venture into public spaces, they were frequently subjected to physical bullying (Jones et al., 2025). Most concerning is that studies show people born with a hearing impairment are often located in rural areas, which limits their access to the support and care they need to live with dignity. Given that much of the country’s development is concentrated in Honiara, this situation highlights multiple forms of marginalisation for those living outside the capital. San Isidro Rural Training Centre, Solomon Islands Located in West Guadalcanal, Solomon Islands, AMS program partner, San Isidro Care Centre provides education and training opportunities for people with hearing and speech impairments from across Solomon Islands. Each year, roughly 40 students enrol in programs ranging from one to four years. Courses include English, Mathematics, Carpentry, Building, Joinery, Sign Language, Health, Christian Education, Agriculture, and Life Skills such as sewing and cooking. Senior students at San Isidro Established in 2007 by Br George van der Zant SM of the Marist Fathers, the Centre was founded to offer access to education and vocational skills for individuals who had previously been excluded from mainstream schooling. In 2018, the Sisters assumed leadership of San Isidro, with Sr. Maria Fe Rollo, SMSM, currently serving as Principal. For nearly 100 years, the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (SMSM) have worked alongside communities throughout Solomon Islands, focusing on education, health, and social inclusion. San Isidro remains the only training centre of its kind in Solomon Islands. Most importantly, students are taught AUSLAN (sign language). Vocational training often equips students with skills to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities to assist their communities in day-to-day functions in their remote villages. By learning these skills, reintegration into their communities can be made easier, allowing students to demonstrate their ability to participate fully in society. This, however, is not always straightforward; without proper support, some students may return to their communities still feeling isolated. It is therefore important at a community level that awareness and understanding of hearing-impaired individuals is prioritised. Posing outside of the Chapel and Community Hall funded by AMS And AMS is not the only organisation supporting the great work of San Isidro. As part of an ACU program launched in 2022 with Sr. Maria Fe Rollo, AUSLAN is taught to potential teachers, who then go into communities to raise awareness and identify potential students. The program also offers teaching of AUSLAN to families. This initiative helps make reintegration smoother for students who return home after graduation. In addition to sign language training, all participants in the program are eligible to receive a Certificate of Teaching and Learning from ACU, a qualification recognised by the Solomon Islands Ministry of Education for employment in schools or other institutions. Current teaching staff included educators who are deaf and live on-site with their family. San Isidro lives out St Marcellin Champagnat’s vision and mission: bringing education in love, to those would often go overlooked. Together, we bring hope. As we lead into our AMS Christmas Appeal, AMS is excited to share with you other stories from our programs centred on disability inclusion. If you feel inspired by this story you have read and would like to support our programs that help young people access the education they deserve, please donate today. Thank you for your generosity and support. Sources: ABC Pacific. (2024, February 6). Project aims to make sign language common communication in Solomon Islands. ABC. https://www.abc.net.au/pacific/programs/pacificbeat/plans-to-make-sign-language-common-in-solomon-islands/103435494 Jones, M., Smith, C., & Meke, J. (2025). Education and inclusion for deaf people in Solomon Islands – The Iumi Tugeda Helpem Solomon Aelans Def Komuniti Project. International Journal of Educational Research, 134, 102810. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijer.2025.102810 Australian Marist Solidarity is the international agency for the aid and development work of the Marist family in Australia throughout Asia and the Pacific Islands. AMS works with the people in this region on a combination of long-term and short-term development projects. These projects aim to develop or support locally sustained education opportunities for the young people in these regions. AMS works to bring education and hope to young people living in Asia and the Pacific so that they can build a brighter future.

The Board of Marist Schools Australia has announced Dr John Kyle-Robinson will take up the role of National Director of MSA effective 27 July 2026. He succeeds the current National Director, Dr Frank Malloy, who announced his decision to conclude his tenure in 2026 which will mark his tenth year in the role and his fifteenth year at Marist Schools Australia. “John has rich experience in Catholic education spanning more than 35 years and is more than qualified to take on the leadership of MSA”, said Chair of Marist Schools Australia, Professor Br David Hall FMS. “John is currently Regional Director at MSA, a position he has held since 2017, and involves working with 24 schools throughout NSW and the ACT. “He also brings a profound faith to his work, flowing from his active participation in parish life and his deep connection to Marist spirituality and tradition. “In a career that has included roles as a teacher, Religious Education Coordinator, and a senior education officer for Catholic schools in Sydney, John has consistently demonstrated leadership witnessed by Christian discipleship. “On behalf of the Marist Schools Australia Board as well as our Marist community of educators, staff, students and families, I warmly welcome John to this new role and know he will serve with distinction and compassion. “I would also like to once again recognise the enormous contribution of our current National Director Dr Frank Malloy who continues to provide exemplary service to MSA and will ensure a seamless transition to Dr Kyle-Robinson next July”.

The Marist Brothers’ Star of the Sea Province is pleased to announce the appointment of Br Darren Burge as its new Provincial, following the election of Br Peter Carroll as Superior General of the Marist Brothers at the 23rd General Chapter held in Tagaytay, Philippines. The Star of the Sea Province, the largest in the Marist world, spans 11 countries across the Pacific and Asia. Br Darren’s appointment marks a significant moment of continuity and renewal for the Province as it continues its mission of making Jesus Christ known and loved in the way of Mary. Br Darren has demonstrated strong and compassionate leadership throughout his many years of service to the Marist Brothers. Prior to this appointment, he served as Vice Provincial, contributing actively to initiatives in education, faith formation, and spirituality. A long-serving member of the Provincial Council, he has worked closely across diverse cultural and educational contexts throughout the Province. Born and raised in North Sydney, Br Darren was educated at Marist Brothers Mosman and Marist Brothers North Sydney. After completing teacher training, he entered the novitiate in 1987, beginning a lifelong vocation in Marist education and formation. Over the years, he has served in a variety of school and leadership roles across Australia - including in Gladstone, Canberra, Campbelltown, Hamilton, Lewisham, and Cairns. Between 2004 and 2006, Br Darren was the Province Vocations Co-ordinator, engaging deeply with Marist youth ministry and young adults - an area that continues to inspire his work. Following a sabbatical in 2007, he was appointed Principal of The John Berne School in Lewisham, where he worked with young people unable to thrive in mainstream education.  Br Darren later served as Principal of St Augustine’s College in Cairns (2013 - 2018), where he led with dedication and vision, continuing the Marist tradition of holistic education. Alongside his educational leadership, he completed a Master of Arts (Theology) and formal training in spiritual accompaniment, deepening his commitment to formation and retreat ministry. In 2025, Br Darren was appointed Leader of the Marist Association of St Marcellin Champagnat in Australia, where he has championed the shared mission of Brothers and lay Marists, promoting co-responsibility and vibrant community life. As Provincial, Br Darren brings a clear and heartfelt vision for the future - one grounded in faith, presence, and service. He is deeply committed to walking with young people, especially those on the margins and strengthening community engagement across the Province’s vast and diverse landscape.

On 8 November, Br Dominic Tsibuen marked a beautiful milestone - 25 years as a Marist Brother. His Silver Jubilee is a celebration not only of years, but of a life lived with faith, purpose, and a kindness that has touched many. Brothers gathered with the two priests Fr Willy and Benjamin in front of the St Marcellin Chapel As a young student at Hutjena High School, Dominic was taught by three Marist Brothers who left a lasting impression on him - Br Julian Hakumin, who was then Principal, Br Bernard McGrath, and Malcolm Hall. In 1995, they taught Religious Education, Science, and Mathematics, but what stayed with Br Dominic most was not just their lessons, but their gentleness, humility, and the quiet example of their lives. Congratulations, Br Dominic! Before graduating from Grade 10, Dominic gathered the courage to tell Br Julian that he wanted to join the Brothers. Br Julian smiled and said simply, “We will help you if you come back after some years when you are sure.” Time passed, and Br Dominic thought that was the end of it. Br Chris Wills presenting tribute from the Provincial Three years later, as he was completing his matriculation studies, fate intervened. Br Julian happened to meet him again and asked, “Were you the one who came to see me a few years ago about joining us?” When Br Dominic said yes, Br Julian replied, “Are you still interested?” And true to the Marian spirit, Br Dominic said yes once again. Soon after, Br Julian connected him with the Vocation Director, and Br Bernard McGrath visited Dominic’s home with a letter of inquiry - an invitation that Dominic eagerly accepted. Br John Hazelman presenting a Samoan Ula, garland symbolising a Brotherhood in connection to community and communion with people in the mission In 1999, he began his formation at the Tsiroge Formation Centre in Bougainville, starting with the aspirancy and postulancy programs. The following two years, 2000 and 2001, he continued his formation in Fiji, completing his novitiate and taking his first vows as a Marist Brother. After his First Vows, Br Dominic spent six months at Divine Word University before continuing his studies at MAPAC (Marist Asia-Pacific Center). On returning to the District, he was appointed to St Joseph’s School, Mabiri. He later served at St Marcellin High School, Burui (East Sepik Province) for two years, and during that time also returned to Lomeri, Fiji, for a six-month period. Br John thanking Br Dominic for his service and friendship Br Finan Valei, the event host of the day! In 2008, Br Dominic began his ministry at St Joseph’s Tenaru in the Solomon Islands - a place that would become a recurring home in his journey. After a year teaching at Arawa High School in Bougainville, he was again appointed to St Joseph’s Tenaru, and later to St Joseph’s Mabiri in 2014–2015. From 2016 to 2017, he served at St Dominic’s Rural Training Centre at Vanga Point and then assisted at the Laumanasa Postulancy for two years. Br Mark Kenatsi giving the words of thanks of behalf of the Brothers In 2020, he returned once more to St Joseph’s Tenaru, continuing his ministry in education and formation. Last year he was appointed the Principal of St Joseph's School in Mabiri. Today , Br Dominic is a valued member of the Port Moresby Community. Br Simon Serero thanking Br Dominic for his 25 years of service Twenty-five years on, Br Dominic looks back on his journey with gratitude - for the Brothers who inspired him, the faith that has sustained him, and the many lives he has touched with his gentleness and quiet strength. Br Dominic, with his brother Paschal, thanking his family for their support View more pics from the ceremony:

On 30 October, Br Kevin Murray passed away in Sydney, Australia. Below is an obituary written by Br Darren Burge, the Acting Provincial of the Star of the Sea Province. It is with great sadness that I advise you that Br Kevin Murray died peacefully on 30 October in Sydney. Kevin remained conscious and talking until the last minute, his heart finally failing from old age. He was 96 years old and had been a Marist Brother for 76 years. Br Kevin Murray: 09.09.1929 - 30.10.2025 This gentle brother of ours was well prepared for his death. In the last few weeks, he had repeatedly mentioned that he wanted to join his old mate Vince Shekleton in heaven. His family was surprised recently when he told them to stop praying for his health and start praying for his death. Kevin had enjoyed his life and was clearly ready to transition to this next stage of life. This reflects his confidence in God, his down-to-earth attitude, and the peace he had arrived at in his life. Kevin was a simple, humble man who enjoyed his life as a Brother and the company of others. Kevin followed the usual pattern of the monks commencing the juniorate at Mittagong in 1945, receiving the habit in 1949 and taking his first vows in July 1950. This was the start of a wonderful contribution to the life of thousands of young people he taught, listened to so compassionately and mentored. Many of these years were as a missionary in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands. If you spoke to Kevin for a while, it would not take long for him to launch into a description of his life in the islands. He would become animated about the people and projects that were at the heart of his life there. The focus was rarely on formal education but on his work in the gardens and other projects that employed his hands-on skills. Kevin was into sustainability and eco-spirituality well before those labels were created. And he was most proud of the innovative water reticulation system he developed, which made water go uphill. This sharing of his experiences was always accompanied by his heartfelt comments about the colleagues and young people with which he worked. In short, he loved the people and the simple, down-to-earth life. He wholeheartedly lived his vocation as brother in the ways that Br Peter Carroll recently asked us to in his speech at the end of the General Chapter: simple, joyful and fraternal. There is no doubt that he was well loved too. Aside from the great affection Kevin had for the people of Papua New Guinea, especially the people of the highlands, and the Solomon Islands, he had a special place in his heart for those on the margins. He made a real connection with those most in need, living with them and responding to their needs. He was happiest when he was working with the young people living in the villages. It was no surprise that later in life when in Bendigo he volunteered with St Vincent de Paul and other community organisations that engaged with the poor. For Kevin this was a natural thing to be involved in as a man in his 80s. The brothers who lived with Kevin remember him for his warmth, humour, and generosity. As Br Ken McDonald notes, “as a Brother in community he was a reliable presence, readily available to offer help, sharing a laugh with the brothers and always prepared to engage in conversations”. At one stage Kevin was also a valued member of the Farmhouse Community in Mittagong where he contributed these qualities and walked the journey with young adults who enjoyed engaging in conversation with him. The young people warmed to Kevin’s open-mindedness, curiosity and kindness. Let us pray for the repose of the soul of this humble, simple brother who loved life and the people he encountered. We leave him in the care of the God he loved and the protection of Mary, Our Good Mother. -Br Darren Burge Acting Provincial

Across the scattered islands of the Pacific, geography and limited resources often make access to quality education uneven for young students. While some schools enjoy the benefits of modern technology, others struggle with outdated or insufficient equipment - leaving many students at a disadvantage in today’s digital world. Recognising this gap, the Star of the Sea Province, with immense support from its partners and Marist networks, has launched a major initiative to help bridge the digital divide - particularly in Fiji. Their latest effort, a large-scale laptop drive, aims to equip young learners in Fiji with quality laptops, giving them the tools they need to learn, explore, and grow in an increasingly digital world. Earlier this month, the Diocese of Sale in Victoria, Australia, joined hands with key Marist partners to make this vision a reality. Shane Doyle, General Manager of Information and Technology for the Diocese of Sale; Br Tony Clark, Mission Development Facilitator; Paul Velten, Director of Catholic Education; and Richard Chow, a proud Fiji Marist Old Boy and entrepreneur from the Freshet Group, came together to hand over 100 laptops - each equipped with Windows 11 licences - to Marist schools throughout Fiji. The laptops in the newly renovated computer lab at the Hostel. The Lab is named "Lavalla" by Br Anitelea Fidow. Richard personally arranged for the laptops to be transported from Victoria to Suva free of charge, while Fineland Investments (Flagstaff Plaza) stepped in to fund upgrades for several of the machines. The initiative began with a simple conversation between Manoa Naulumatua, Hostel Warden at Ratu Mara Hostel, and Br John Hazelman, former Provincial Delegate to Pasifika and now General Councillor. Manoa shared the need for more computers to support hostel students in their research and study - at the time, only two desktop computers were available for over 100 boys at Ratu Mara Hostel. Michael Kumar (Head Teacher at Marist Brothers Primary School Suva St) with the Chair of the Fiji Marist Champagnat Education Board Bill Mar This conversation sparked a determined effort to source modern, high-quality laptops for Marist schools and hostels across Fiji. The initiative was coordinated through the Champagnat Marist Education Board (CMEB), chaired by Bill Marr, with the support of Pauline Navuku, Administrator of the Fiji Marist Education Board. A simple handover ceremony was held at Ratu Mara Hostel, Flagstaff, Suva, where the newly renovated computer lab - funded by the Province - was officially opened. The lab was named Lavalla by Br Anitelea Fidow, Acting Hostel Warden. The 100 laptops will be distributed as follows:   ·       20 laptops for Ratu Mara Hostel ·       15 for Marist Brothers High School (MBHS) ·       25 for Marist Brothers Primary School, Suva Street ·       25 for St Marcellin Primary School ·       15 for the Marist Champagnat Institute   Lawrence Tikaram (President of the Marist Rugby Club) with Etu (Marist Sports Media) Marist Brothers High School Principal, Asish Dayal, described feeling “blessed” by the initiative, “Technology is essential in today’s classrooms, but more importantly, it’s about empowering students to use it responsibly and creatively. We encourage our students to appreciate and care for these tools as part of their growth as Marist learners.” Similarly, Michael Kumar, Principal of Marist Brothers Primary School, has long championed digital learning and believes the initiative aligns perfectly with the Fiji Ministry of Education’s vision of connecting all schools by 2030. But the Province’s mission to empower young people doesn’t stop at technology. Later this year, the Ratu Mara Hostel Renovation Project will begin - supported by the Star of the Sea Province through Australia Marist Solidarity (AMS), with additional contributions from Fineland Investments. The happy students at the lab with their laptops The renovation aims to provide safer, more comfortable accommodation for students who stay in the hostel during the school year. “Our Province is very diverse - some countries have more resources, and some could do with a bit of assistance,” said Br John. “Being part of this larger Marist family enables us to reach out and support one another. After all, the spirit that runs through our Province is the same Marian one. We are guided by the pillars of Simplicity, Presence, Family Spirit, Love of Work, and In the Way of Mary. Together, we can strengthen our schools and uphold the Marist tradition of excellence, service, and community.”

The Star of the Sea Provincial Council convened in Sydney from 22 to 24 October for its quarterly in-person meeting - one of four held annually across different parts of the Province. The Council currently comprises Br Darren Burge (Acting Provincial), Br Peter Horide (Provincial Delegate to Aotearoa-New Zealand), Br Greg McDonald (Provincial Delegate to Timor-Leste and Cambodia), Br Sefo Une (Country Coordinator for Samoa), Br Graham Neist (Provincial Councillor), and Br Kevin Wanden (Province Secretary).   Star of the Sea Provincial Council with Superior General Br Peter Carroll and General Councillor Br John Hazelman Also joining the gathering were Br Peter Carroll, former Provincial and newly elected Superior General, and Br John Hazelman, former Provincial Delegate to Pasifika and now member of the General Council.   The Sydney meeting held particular significance, providing an opportunity for everyone involved to spend time with staff at the Provincial Office and to farewell Br Peter and Br John, who now head to Rome to join the General Council, with heartfelt gratitude for their leadership and service. The Star of the Sea Provincial Council (L–R): Br Kevin Wanden, Br Darren Burge, Br Greg McDonald, Br Peter Horide, Br Sefo Une, and Br Graham Neist Over three days, the Council dedicated time to key areas of discernment, including the appointment of Brothers across the Province - a process vital to sustaining Marist life and mission. Council members also received updates from key personnel responsible for various portfolios, ensuring that strategic goals continue to be shaped by collaboration, reflection, and shared purpose. Br Peter Carroll and Br John Hazelman at their farewell gathering before heading to Rome to join the General Council Given that the Star of the Sea Province is the largest in the Marist world, gathering face-to-face remains an important rhythm of Council life. Each meeting strengthens not only planning and governance but also ensures that every country is well represented, its challenges understood, and that all members move forward with shared clarity and purpose. Brothers Sefo Une, Peter Horide and John Hazelman View more pics from the meeting:

From 13 to 23 September, Champagnat Marists from Aotearoa New Zealand undertook their second annual pilgrimage to Rome, L’Hermitage, and Lyon. It was a deeply moving journey, tracing the footsteps of St Marcellin Champagnat. Along the way, the pilgrims deepened their understanding of the Marist heart and mission, and formed beautiful connections that will last a lifetime, writes Daniel Dungey, Partnership Coordinator for Fiji, Samoa, Kiribati, and Aotearoa New Zealand. Our second annual pilgrimage consisting of 14 Champagnat Marists to Rome, Lyon and L’Hermitage from 13-23 September was capably and enthusiastically led by our core team of Br Martin Pattison (replacing Br Barry Burns), Fr John Craddock sm (Chaplain) and Dan Dungey (Coordinator). The presence of Mons. Bernard Kiely was certainly the cherry on top! St Marcellin Statue Our 10-day pilgrimage invited participants to take a journey of the heart to the sources of our founding Marist story. Six Principals from our Champagnat Marist Schools’ Network were represented from Invercargill, Christchurch, Masterton, Palmerston North & Hamilton following on from Keith Simento (St Paul’s, Auckland) attending our inaugural pilgrimage last year. The journey began in Rome with a shared meal on the Saturday evening close to our central accommodation at Casa per Ferie Sancta Lucia Filippini. Our Marist Brothers General House visitation where Br Michael Sexton was to greet and address us was a real highlight. Although it was a ‘quieter than usual’ General House due to the Chapter in Manila, the care and hospitality was felt immensely. Jubilee Year was an overwhelming experience of busyness and enthusiasm around Vatican City. Spirits were lifted by visiting our Marcellin statue where Br Martin spoke from the heart about the qualities of our founder and the inspiration behind the statue. At the midday Angelus in St Peter’s Square, Pope Leo’s 70 th  birthday was acknowledged to great cheer. Main Chapel In Lyon we encountered origins of the of the Marist Project at Fourviere and experienced the spiritual connection of being in places significant to the life works of Marcellin Champagnat at L’Hermitage  and surrounding areas. A special ‘ Te Waewae Tapu – Sacred first-time visitors’ ritual took place upon our arrival at L’Hermitage where pilgrims offered taonga (gifts representing hopes and dreams) that held deep meaning to them. We honoured and acknowledged the spirits of the early Marists who came to Aotearoa on mission and died there. Setting out in 1836 with Bishop Pompallier were: ·       Fathers:  Servant, Bataillon, Bret and Peter Chanel ·       Brothers:  Marie Nizier, Michel Colomban and Joseph Zavier   Principals - Marcellin's Home There were so many blessings upon our arrival in France and not even the odd set back or two could deter the spirit of our group. The accompaniment of Br Dem from the L’Hermitage community throughout our time in ‘Champagnat Country’ sharing his wisdom, insights and genuine care for our group. Another gem awaited courtesy of Fr John’s close friendship with Bishop Jean-Yves Riocreux who co-celebrated our mass at his hometown in Marlhes. Bishop Jean-Yves was previously administrator of Notre Dame de Paris, Bishop of Pontoise and then Guadeloupe. The strong link with our group was made as Bishop Jean-Yves was responsible for negotiating with the French authorities for the exhumation and repatriation of Bishop Pompallier. Sharing mass at Le Puy with our Marist Missionary Sisters from Vanuatu, Tonga, Samoa, Australia and New Zealand was a fitting way to highlight that the original Marist dream lives on in each of us. Reliquary Many thanks to Brothers Peter Carroll and Peter Horide for supporting this initiative, Br David McDonald in preparing Te Waewae Tapu ritual along with our mass and liturgy resources and Br Bill Lawley for his tireless work in delivering our printing request which in turn has become important keepsakes for the group. Special thanks to Br Colin Divane and our Onslow Community for hosting one of our overnight planning meetings with the core team leading up to this pilgrimage – as well as providing the space for a shared meal with our Auckland-based 2024 pilgrims. Support comes in many different forms, and it is with deep gratitude that we would like to thank the many prayers and encouraging messages received from our Marist Bothers and wider Champagnat Marist whanau throughout this journey. As we are all aware, our pilgrimage is only now just beginning! Le Puy   To journey alongside two passionate Marist men in Br Martin Pattison and Fr John Craddock in delivering an authentic pilgrimage of the heart was a true joy. Our group acknowledged that we were all the beneficiaries of their wonderful knowledge, companionship and presence. Extended thanks to both Br Martin and Fr John’s communities for sharing these inspiring men and their gifts with us. Br Barry Burns may not have been with us in person this year, however, his spirit was felt every step of the way – every liturgy and timetabled event had his care and fingerprints all over them and it is with extended thanks and gratitude to him for making this pilgrimage even possible.  Fourviere   Br Ernesto encourages us to build a new L’Hermitage for today and we have a mighty foundation to build upon 200 years on. As we now look beyond to the revisioning of our Marist dream here in Aotearoa New Zealand let us be mindful of the ongoing need for co-responsibility so we can continue to dream new dreams for the benefit of God’s mission, inspired by Marcellin, Mary and Jesus, as companions on this journey. Champagnat Marist Aotearoa New Zealand Pilgrims 2025     BR MARTIN PATTISON FR JOHN CRADDOCK Margaret Leamy Lee Nanai Myra Coley Paul McGuinness Adam Coley Jarlath Kelly Jacob Vermunt Michelle Jordan-Tong Matheus Vermunt Shane Tong Daniel Dungey Mons Bernard Kiely   He Kete Taonga   This Kete (basket) contains Taonga (the hopes and dreams) of pilgrims from Aotearoa New Zealand who, on entering Champagnat country for the first time, come as Waewae Tapu (sacred first-time visitors). On arrival, they leave their Taonga at Champagnat’s reliquary, and then traverse the land, the history and the narrative of Champagnat’s dream. At the end of their stay, they shift their taonga to this place to join with those who have come before them. Once completed, they are no longer Waewae Tapu. They are now Hunga Kainga, no longer stranger, no longer visitor but part of the Champagnat Marist whānau.    View more pics: Naku te rourou nau te rourou ka ora ai te iwi With your basket and my basket, the people will live

Recently, Br Neville Solomon and Br Paul Bailey made a special journey to Futuna Island, the sacred place where St Peter Chanel was martyred. St Peter Chanel, a Marist Father from France, is honoured as the patron saint of Oceania. He had travelled to Futuna with one of Marcellin Champagnat’s own Brothers from the Hermitage in France - Br Marie-Nizier Delormes. Br Neville Solomon and Br Paul Bailey While St Peter Chanel was tragically martyred, Br Marie-Nizier survived the attack. His journey afterward was no less remarkable - he lived for some time in Sydney before eventually returning to France. Sadly, he passed away in London, never again seeing his beloved Hermitage. The place where St Peter Chanel was killed On Futuna, Br Neville and Br Paul visited the chapel dedicated to St Peter Chanel and the very place where he gave his life. It was a moment of deep reflection and connection with the rich Marist heritage that continues to inspire so many across the Pacific. St Peter Chanel's Basilica View more pics :

Champagnat Lay Marists from Fiji - Mereoni Matantobua, Arieta Elisabeta, and Joeli Koroiravudi - joined Br Anitelea Fidow and General Councillor Br John Hazelman at the Conference of Major Superiors of the Pacific Islands (CMSPI), held at the Pacific Regional Seminary in Suva, Fiji. Champagnat Marists with the Nuncio and Timothy Radcliff and Sr Maria Cimperman This year’s conference centers around the theme: “Formation in a Synodal Church: Lay, Initial and Ongoing.” It brings together religious leaders, lay collaborators, and formation experts from across the Pacific to explore pathways for deepening faith, strengthening community, and fostering inclusive leadership in the Church. Champagnat Marists with Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe The gathering is graced by two distinguished keynote speakers: Cardinal Timothy Radcliffe OP, known for his profound theological insights and global ministry, and Sr Maria Cimperman RSCJ, a respected voice in religious formation and ethics. Their contributions are expected to inspire rich dialogue and renewed commitment to synodality - a journey of walking together in faith. The participants For the Marist delegates, the conference offers a unique opportunity to engage with peers, reflect on their mission, and contribute to shaping the future of formation in the Pacific Church. View more pics from the event: