On 14 July, Br James McBride FMS passed away in Aotearoa New Zealand. Below is the eulogy delivered at his funeral by Br Tim Leen, a former pupil. I first met Brother James McBride in 1975 when I was a postulant living at Marist House Nae Nae in Lower Hutt. James was in the Napier Primary School community in Hawke's Bay. Four postulants and I decided to rent a car and go touring around the Marist communities in the North Island as part of our “postulancy programme.” We were five young men - all smokers, with long hair and loud music. Very normal for young men in the mid-seventies. We arrived in Napier to what appeared to be a group of “elderly” Marist Brothers in black soutanes who were all in their rooms by the end of dinner. What a sight and shock we must have been to this group we considered “elderly men in black.” James was such a gentle, wonderful host to us that weekend though he must have been filled with such confusion looking at this motley bunch. Br James McBride FMS: 21.12.1926 - 14.07.2025 This was the first time I was to know a man named ‘James’ by the three distinctive words. Gracious, Grateful and a Gentleman. For the next fifty years, I knew James only by these three words. A man who never spoke an unkind word and who never missed an opportunity to express his gratitude even for the smallest act of kindness, such as a visit to the Rest Home (where he spend his last years).   James was one of the last true Marist Brothers branded with the old trademark of ‘simplicity.’ He delighted in living Marist simplicity. He lived the Marist Pillars with a smile on his face and without ever preaching about them. He was not a modern-day religious attending meetings and conferences and dining out at airport lounges. His happiness was based on a simple and regular living of religious life. And this brought him peace that he radiated to everyone.   James had one highlight every week while living his many years in Lower Hutt. A simple, regular excursion every Friday. He would use his ‘Gold Card’ for a free train ride into Wellington after 9 am followed by a time in the Wellington library reading the newspaper from Greymouth (his hometown). Once the local gossip had been absorbed, then off to McDonald’s for a free pensioner’s coffee. Then back on the train to Lower Hutt for another free ride before the three o’clock cut-off. Back to the Brother’s house to pick up his golf clubs and then off to the golf course for a round of eight holes before home for dinner. For James, this was his simple way of celebrating the end of the week and relaxing …. and no charge!   James was my first principal at Mary Street in Invercargill. I think it was his last year as principal. Here I came to know him by another name “The Charmer.” Parents would sometimes come to school upset about something. Ten minutes behind closed doors with James and they came out like pussy cats licking their lips with milk. The ‘charmer’ had won them over again through his graciousness and gentleness. I, however, still had some distant respect for him and walked cautiously. I wanted to take my class on a camp into Doubtful Sounds for a week but I took weeks to raise the topic with him, Eventually, I fronted up and blurted out the request, expecting a good old fashioned ‘put down.’ He simply looked at me, smiled and said, “On one condition. You stay on and take my class afterwards for the same camp.” We became lifelong friends from that time onwards. The same pattern of lifelong friendships James formed with former pupils, Brothers in community, parents of students, golfing partners, local parishioners, caregivers at Aroha.   In my years away from New Zealand, every month, James would visit my mother in her home in Taita and later, he was her regular visitor in the Rest Home. Her room was opposite the room that James occupied in the same place. My mother looked forward to the coming of this gracious gentleman and he was always grateful for the twenty dollar note slipped into his hand as he left. James was not a high-flyer, a trendsetter or a Koru Club Member. He was just one of those Marist Brothers faithful to his prayer life and the Eucharist, his mission and who loved living a simple religious life faithfully. And of course, he so loved his Brothers in community.   Before leaving for Kiribati on my return from Cambodia, I went to visit James. I opened his door and there was that huge smile that had greeted me over the last fifty years since the cheeky visit as a postulant. I asked him if he wanted to come to Auckland to be with the Brothers. He could have answered me in many different ways. He simply looked up, smiled and said, “Tim, I am very content here.” And he was to the end. A simple, gracious gentleman filled with gratitude to the end. Thank you for being an outstanding long-term Juniorate and Novitiate formator in New Zealand, Australia and Fiji, a committed community man, teacher, principal, and one of our best golfers. But mainly, for being a simple, faithful friend to us all. Written by Br Tim Leen Also read Br Peter Carroll's obituary of Br James McBride .

On 21 July, Marist Brothers High School in Suva made history by holding its first-ever Academic Champion Induction. The event, held at the school, was proudly officiated by the Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro. Senior student leaders, Old Boys' President Neumi Vakadewabuka, Br John Hazelman, Principal Ashish Dayal, and Marist Education Board Chairman Bill Mar joined the Hon. Minister of Education, Aseri Radrodro, and a representative from the Ministry of Education for the ceremonial cake cutting. Under the theme “Excellence,” the Honourable Minister commended the school’s proactive systems, student-centred learning approaches, and commitment to leaving no student behind. As part of the program, about 96 students were officially inducted as Academic Champions and Peer Learning Leaders. The Minister described them as examples of Fiji’s future and a testament to what can be achieved when schools uphold the values of care, discipline, and community. The honourable Minister encouraged students to dream boldly. He thanked teachers for their passion and dedication and acknowledged parents and guardians for the support they provide every day. The students who received their award during the induction ceremony. The Minister concluded by acknowledging Marist Brothers High School for creating a strong, caring community where academic success and personal growth go hand in hand. The Academic Champion Badge is a special recognition awarded to students who demonstrate outstanding academic performance. To qualify, students in Years 9 and 10 must score 500 or more out of 600 marks with a pass in English, while those in Years 11, 12, and 13 must score 300 or more out of 400, also with a pass in English. Students who meet this benchmark are inducted as Academic Champions and take on a role as Peer Learning Leaders, supporting a culture of academic excellence in the school. The badge is the property of the school and is worn until the next full-scale exams. Continued strong performance allows students to retain the badge into the following year. The Academic Induction Ceremony takes place in mid-July, similar to the Prefect Induction Ceremony. View more pics:

From 17–20 July, St Joseph’s College in Samoa celebrated a truly special milestone - its 75th anniversary. Former students returned from across the Pacific - Fiji, Australia, Aotearoa New Zealand, and beyond - to honour the legacy of a school that began as something small but grew into one of the most enduring signs of Marist education in the region. Over the years, the college has formed leaders in many walks of life - from celebrated rugby players to national politicians and dedicated community servants. In recognition of this significant occasion, Br Kevin O’Malley delves into the school’s history, exploring its origins, the vision behind its establishment, and the impact it has had on generations of students: Read more . Here are a few photos from the celebrations. May our Good Mother and Marcellin continue to shine their light on St Joseph’s, and may its alumni continue to carry that light into the world. Contributed by Br Steve Vaea, Samoa.

In a simple ceremony at Casa Marista, Teuale, last Friday evening, 11 July, nine Timorese men were formally accepted into the Marist Aspirancy program. As they entered the chapel, each aspirant received a ceremonial tais from a scholastic brother, symbolising his welcome into our Marist Community. During the ritual of welcome, the aspirants responded 'Ha'u hakarak' (I do) as they committed themselves to begin a process of vocational discernment, by listening to God's call in prayer, formation, community, and service. Br Paul Gilchrist and Br Tony Caddy then presented them with their Aspirancy cross. Let us pray for these new aspirants that the Lord, Mother Mary and Marcellin will guide them as they begin their journey of Marist formation. View more pics: Contributed by Br Gerg McDonald, Provincial Delegate to Timor-Leste and Cambodia.

The Exodus Community in Melbourne celebrated NAIDOC (National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee) Week 2025 from 6 to 13 July, embracing this year’s theme, " The Next Generation: Strength, Vision, and Legacy.” It’s a theme that deeply resonated with the community, who once again attended the annual NAIDOC Family Day hosted by Aboriginal Housing Victoria. Held at the Aboriginal Advancement League in Thornbury, Melbourne, the event was a vibrant and joyful celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture, and achievements. For the past few years, the Exodus Community has brought together local First Nations families - many of whom are part of its youth programs - to participate in this special week. For some, it’s more than just a community gathering; it’s a meaningful space for connection, healing, and cultural rediscovery. Generational trauma and disconnection due to colonisation have meant many families are only now beginning to explore or reclaim their cultural identity. With support from Barrbunin Beek Gathering Place , a partner organisation, families are finding safe pathways to reconnect with language, traditions, and story. It was heartening to see so many children and parents engaged - laughing at the face painting station, listening to storytelling, kicking the footy, and sharing food. View more pics: Contributed by Liz Wake, Program Coordinator, Exodus Community . Lavalla200> Community Joins NAIDOC Celebrations in Western Sydney As communities gathered across the country for NAIDOC Week 2025, the Lavalla200> community marked the occasion by supporting a large local celebration in Western Sydney. The event was a collaborative effort between Holy Family Parish and Baabayn Aboriginal Corporation and brought together over 2,000 people in a local park, all celebrating the richness of Aboriginal culture and history. Much of the preparation was done hand-in-hand with local Elders and community leaders. Br Lawrie McCann worked alongside Aunty Cassandra from Baabayn to help plan and coordinate the event. Silvia Martinez and Ruben Galego volunteered on the day - setting up tents, directing traffic, taking photos, and staying till the end to clean up. Their efforts helped create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The day itself was full of energy and generosity. Free food, cultural performances, rides for the kids, and over 70 stalls offering health, legal, and support services brought a festival-like spirit to the event. The atmosphere was one of community: people sharing stories, laughing together, and honouring a legacy that extends back tens of thousands of years. For Lavalla200>, it was a privilege to stand in solidarity with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples during NAIDOC 2025 - and an honour to be part of a celebration grounded in respect, resilience, and hope for the next generation. Contributed by Br Lawrie McCann, Lavalla200> Community.

On 7 July 2025, Colégio Marista Lautem moved from its temporary location at the Lautem Catholic Parish Centre to its permanent site at Sika, about six kilometres from Lautem. A pupil-free day was called for Friday, 4 July, to allow staff and contractors to physically move the classroom furniture and resources. The move had been long anticipated as the hope had been that the Sika site would be ready in January. While in some ways they were sorry to leave what had been their school for six months, the students were clearly excited to arrive at their beautiful new school. Up until now, students had been arriving at school with parents on motorbikes. Now they arrived in small, parent-organised trucks as well as on foot. A number of parents attended the morning assembly on that first day and were as awestruck as the students with the state-of-the-art educational facility. There are many firsts for students and staff - spaces for teachers to set up displays, eating lunch in a purpose-built dining room, spacious and creative learning spaces, using western toilets, cooking indoors and enjoying the expanse of the campus. The excitement continues. Written by Br Paul Kane, Principal, Colégio Marista Lautem

On 14 July, Br James McBride FMS passed away in Aotearoa New Zealand. Below is an obituary written by Br Peter Carroll, Provincial of the Star of the Sea Province. Br James McBride died in Lower Hutt, Aotearoa New Zealand, on 14 July. He was 98 years old and had been a Brother for nearly 81 years. Some weeks ago, James suffered a fall and was hospitalised. He returned to the rest home but never fully recovered. Over the last week he was eating and drinking very little. It became clear that the end was approaching. He died quietly in the afternoon. Br James McBride FMS: 21.12.1926 - 14.07.2025 He has been a resident at the rest home since 2016, and he was content and well looked after and much valued. This afternoon one of the carers wrote: “It’s a sad day with the passing of such a lovely man who was loved by all the staff”. We thank them for their support and care of him. Thomas Malcolm McBride was born in Greymouth on 21 December 1926. He loved the place of his birth and was “a very proud west coaster” throughout his life. It’s worth noting that the Catholic community in Greymouth and surrounding West Coast (South Island) was close-knit, vibrant, and sometimes staunchly working class. The Catholic proportion living on the 'West Coast' was higher than in any other Province in New Zealand and produced a significant number of vocations to priestly and religious life. James was one of many. His father, Michael (Mick) McBride, was a labourer and railway worker, and his mother, Catherine (Kit) McBride (nee O'Donnell), was a stay-home mother of four. Their residence in Murray Street was a happy one and Tom grew up with his three older siblings. His brother, Charlie McBride, went on to make a mark as a Rugby League player who played 20 tests for New Zealand and was inducted into the Rugby League’s Legends of League in 2020. James met the Marist Brothers through his schooling and took up the ‘recruiters’ invitation to ‘try the Brothers’. He thus found his way to the juniorate at Tuakau, and then the novitiate at Claremont. He professed First Vows there on 12 September 1945, and after a short Scholasticate, commenced his ministry as a teacher. Unfortunately, I didn’t come to meet James until recent years. That is my loss. However, it doesn’t take too long with such a person to realise their goodness. It’s easily detected for goodness has a way of shining through. It’s no wonder that he was selected to work in Formation, for it is such models that young Religious need. In all, he spent over twenty years in various Formation Houses, in Juniorate, Postulancy, Novitiate, Scholasticate; in New Zealand, Fiji and Australia. To generations of Champagnat Marists he was a witness of what it means to live life as a Brother, authentic, thoughtful and faithful. Br Tim Leen developed a close bond with James going back to his time as a Postulant. Sadly, he is currently in Kiribati, undertaking tasks for the Province, but he has offered some reflections. He sums James up in three words – Gracious, Gentlemanly and Grateful! “A man who never spoke an unkind word and who never missed an opportunity to express his gratitude even for the smallest act of kindness such as a visit to the Rest Home…James was one of the last true Marist Brothers branded with the old trademark of ‘simplicity.’ He delighted in living Marist simplicity. He lived the Marist Pillars with a smile on his face and without ever needing to preach about them…His happiness was based on a simple and regular living of religious life. And this brought him peace that he radiated to everyone. “James was not a highflyer, a trend setter or a Koru Club Member. He was just one of those Marist Brothers faithful to his prayer life, the Eucharist, his mission and who loved living a simple religious life faithfully. And of course, he so loved his Brothers in community”. During his time in Invercargill with James, Tim gave him another name, “the charmer”. James was the Principal there and Tim observed parents coming to school upset about something. “They would go into the office and then ten minutes behind closed doors with James they would come out like pussycats licking their lips with milk. The ‘charmer’ had won them over again through his graciousness and gentleness”. Tim concludes his reflection: “Before leaving for Kiribati I went to visit James. I opened his door and there was that huge smile that had greeted me over the last fifty…I asked him if he wanted to come to Auckland to be with the Brothers. He could have answered me in many different ways. He simply looked up, smiled and said, “Tim, I am very content here.” And he was to the end. A simple, gracious gentleman filled with gratitude. Thank you for being an outstanding long term Juniorate and Novitiate formator in New Zealand, Australia and Fiji, a committed community man, teacher, principal, and one of our best golfers. But mainly, for being a simple faithful friend to us all”. We can all say “Amen” to that. Br James now rests in the warm embrace of our God who is love. Written by Br Peter Carroll, SoTS Provincial.

Each year, students from the Instituto Católico para Formação de Professores, or ICFP, undertake their five-week estajiu, or teaching practicum in a Catholic or Government school, somewhere in Timor-Leste. For most beginning students it is in a primary school. For the more adept, it could be in a junior secondary school.   Student teachers spend long hours planning motivating lessons in their subject area, teaching and being observed. During the practicum, staff from ICFP come and evaluate their lesson preparation and observe their teaching performance.   This year, 16 Timorese Marist Brothers went on estajiu, teaching mainly in the Municipality of Baucau. For all, it was a rewarding - if at times challenging - experience, in which they shared a house with other student teachers, living, cooking, and planning their lessons together before heading off to school each day. For many of the student Brothers, there is an expectation that they will also offer extra support in the local parishes, assisting with youth programs or providing music or choir support for the weekend liturgies. It is truly a time of immersion.   Here are some reflections and photos of our Brothers on estajiu. Br Dionisio Madeira Martins From 3 June to 5 July, 2025, I completed my second teaching practicum at Saint Michael Archangel School in Venilale as part of my second-year studies. There, I had my first real experience as an English teacher standing in front of a classroom, delivering lessons, and engaging with students. Br Dionisio (centre front) with children from Vemasse surrounded by Br Juvencio, Br Norberto and Br Jefriano. Every time I came to English class it was different: some students picked up concepts right away, while others needed extra time and encouragement. This showed me just how diverse learning can be and how important it is to adapt. One of my most meaningful moments came outside my assigned Grade 9 class. During the breaks, I worked with a Grade 7 student who was completely struggling with reading. "The heart of teaching isn’t always about fast results. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up, being patient, and noticing the students who are so often overlooked." We made slow progress, but what stayed with me the most was sometimes he seemed alone on the edge, perhaps due to his struggles with reading. His path seemed still open, waiting for more, but it reminded me that the heart of teaching isn’t always about fast results. Sometimes, it’s just about showing up, being patient, and noticing the students who are so often overlooked. All in all, it was truly a rewarding experience, and those five weeks of teaching really solidified my sense of mission.  Br Ronaldo Da Costa My ICFP pedagogical internship was at my old school of ‘EBF’ Baucau Central Primary School. Through this pedagogical practice I felt very proud to be able to join the students of EBF Central and the teachers. For five weeks I shared my knowledge, skills and life experiences with the teachers and students in the school, especially through extra-curricular activities. This helped to strengthen relationships in the school, just like a family. I am grateful that the teachers supported me with knowledge and prayer, just as I was able to support them with my skills and abilities. "Through the experiences and challenges I faced, I was able to grow in my profession as a teacher." Br Ronaldo (front centre with school staff in Baucau and visitors from Australia). Through the experiences and challenges I faced, I was able to grow in my profession as a teacher and can now continue developing my skills for the future. Br Juvencio Hanjam Nia I am grateful for completing five weeks of teaching experience at a primary and lower secondary public school in Vemasse, a small town about 30 minutes west of Baucau. I taught English to year 7 students and enjoyed the experience, as well as building strong relationships with students and teachers. I realise that every student comes to school with a different character and personality so I have to adjust to each individual student and learn how best to respond to them. "I learnt how to adjust to each individual student and learn how best to respond to them." I found the teaching experience has helped me in my preparation for teaching, especially in learning to how manage my time during a busy school day. Br Edgar Salgueiro Da Costa   During the estajiu at Samalari, I gained a lot of experience in my pedagogical practice. I lived with five other student teachers from ICFP. I had the opportunity to teach Grades 1 and 6. We gained the trust of the local community and young people in the neighbourhood. In the afternoons we had extra time to encourage the children to help us prepare the liturgy for Mass on Saturday evening and also organise oratory prayer activities, sports and singing practice. Through this I made more friends and created a better family spirit in the community. The children did not feel afraid to approach me or my colleagues and help us with anything we needed. "The children did not feel afraid to approach me or my colleagues and help us with anything we needed." I found my experience of doing youth ministry in my initial formation helped me to be more natural and at home as a teacher in the classroom. The children seemed to respond positively to me. I really enjoyed helping the students by sharing the little knowledge and skills that I have gained from my first semester at ICFP and especially bringing God’s love to the young people in my classes.   Br Damião Correia Falo   My six-week teaching practice was an amazing experience and the first one that I have done. It was the first time for me to stand in front of students and teach them and to implement the skills and knowledge I have learnt from my first semester at ICFP, especially the dynamic method of teaching . I learned from the students as well as the teachers, especially the different behaviours that can be challenging. It made me think about changing my own pedagogy and practice and how to manage behaviour in the classroom. "I learned from both students and teachers - it made me rethink how I manage behaviour and teach." I realise that I need to be with the students longer so I can get to know them better. Overall it was a wonderful time on estajiu. Br Clementino Xavier   My teaching experience was incredibly rewarding. I had the opportunity to work with students of various ages and backgrounds, each with their unique learning styles and challenges. "One of the most fulfilling aspects was seeing students grasp new concepts and skills and becoming more confident." One of the most fulfilling aspects was seeing students grasp new concepts and skills, and observing their confidence grow as they progressed. I’m learning to be patient and adapt to different situations as well as be creative in my approach to meet the needs of my students. These experiences on estajiu are deepening my passion for education and valuing the impact that education can have on individuals and communities. View more pics:

On 13 July, Br Jordan Redden FMS passed away at 7:40 pm in Adelaide. Below is an obituary written by Br Peter Carroll, Provincial of the Star of the Sea Province. Br Jordan Redden, or Jordo, as he was widely known, passed away peacefully in Adelaide last night at 7.40 pm (SA time). Though he had been frail since he moved into a retirement home in January 2023, he deteriorated over the last four days. Last evening he slipped away quietly, pain-free and at peace, at the age of 99 years and two months. Br Jordan Redden FMS: 19.05.1926 - 13.07.2025 Christopher Michael Redden was born on 19 May 1926 in Peterborough, South Australia. His mother was Elizabeth Frances (Smith) and his father, Thomas Peter Redden, was a mixed farmer who ran the family property near Jamestown. The Redden name is well known in South Australia and most are directly related to Br Jordan in some way. His uncle was Br Placidus Redden, the first Provincial of the Melbourne Province (1948-1956). Br Jordan knew the Marists through his uncle and developed a deeper appreciation through his schooling at Sacred Heart College, where he and his brothers boarded. In fact, due to the rural depression of the 1930s his parents didn’t have the money to pay the school fees, so his two older brothers contributed and the Principal, Br Albertus, provided a reduction. Without this generosity Br Jordan's life could have been significantly different. He recounts that before he left for the Mittagong Juniorate, his father took him aside and said to him: “You wouldn’t go over there and just come back again, would you?”. Jordo replied, “Oh no, I’ll give it a good try”. He was true to his word, and on 2 July this year, celebrated his 80th anniversary of life as a Marist Brother. After leaving the Novitiate in 1946, Br Jordan went to Camberwell for a short scholasticate and then embarked upon his ministry of teaching, initially in Primary schools and then in secondary education. He served in all the States of the far-flung Melbourne Province, from Bunbury to Bendigo, and Forbes to East Brunswick. He held all the roles you could think of: Principal, Community Leader, Master of Discipline, Sports Master, even Choir Master - which was appropriate given his strong baritone. He was a good organiser and manager. Br Jordan also took on other roles that aren’t so routine, such as bus driver, tour guide, accredited driving instructor, holiday house manager (Port Elliot), tutor at a residential university college, and founder of a cricket carnival. Of course, the latter is the Marist Cricket Carnival which he and Tony Lantry (of St Joseph’s College, Hunters Hill) established in 1974. It has continued ever since, and last December–January marked its 50th anniversary! Br Jordan was outgoing, bright, sociable. There were few people that he didn’t impress with his warm welcome, hearty greeting and ready smile. He enjoyed conversation and was a fine raconteur. His storytelling skills were honed over many years of interacting with his large family, multitude of colleagues and good friends. As a consummate storyteller he learned to cover his occasional repetitions with the line “I may have told you this before but it’s worth telling again”. He might then recount the occasion when, as a bus driver, his faithful vehicle broke down at a busy city intersection and he had to call on the young passengers to push it through the traffic lights to a garage. Other yarns could cover his knowledge of a good Coonawarra ‘red’, his love of the Adelaide Crows (the local AFL team), his robust and enduring connections with Sacred Heart College, and his incredible family connections. He had a lot to relay, and he always did so in an engaging and humorous way! Friendly, personable and diplomatic, Br Jordan could win people over, even those who were a little curmudgeonly. He brought a great deal to community life and to the schools in which he worked. At the same time, he was never one to neglect his spirituality, and prayer and Mass remained bulwarks for him. How else can you remain a dedicated Brother for 80 years? Br Jordan loved Sacred Heart College and found it difficult to leave when he needed to go into care in 2023. However, also being a realist, he accepted the inevitability of his move. In an interview on the occasion of his 75th Jubilee, he said of Sacred Heart, “I had a magical time here, at school and as a Brother, it’s very important to be back here”. Br Jordan will return to Sacred Heart for the last time this coming Friday when he will be farewelled by a grateful congregation of Brothers, family, colleagues, friends and ex-students. Rest in peace, dear Jordo. Written by Br Peter Carroll, SoTS Provincial.

These past few weeks, the Pasifika - as always - has been buzzing with activity. From student immersions to Brothers on the move, and preparations for the upcoming Provincial Chapter elections in December, our Marist communities continue to live out their mission with energy and faith. Brothers' Movement: Br Bomes Tukana Heads to Manila We send our prayers and blessings with Br Bomes Tukana as he departs for MAPAC (Marist Asia Pacific Center) Formation Programme in Manila. May this new chapter be a time of growth and deepening vocation. All the best, Br Bomes! Vanuatu: Participating in the Chapter Process Amidst ongoing school immersions and student activities, Br Bonaventure Tolack and Br Jean Marie Batick have been spending time together to cast their votes for the upcoming Second Provincial Chapter. This is a significant moment, as all Brothers take part in this democratic process to elect their delegates - those who will help shape the direction of our Province. Brothers Bonaventure (left) and Jean Marie Fiji: A Visit from the Fiji Ministry of Education We were honoured to welcome Aseri Radrodro, Fiji’s Minister for Education, to Marist Brothers Primary School, Suva Street. His presence was a meaningful gesture of support for Catholic education, and we are grateful for the time he spent engaging with our students and teachers. Fiji’s Minister for Education with students from Marist Brothers Primary School. A Generous Gift from the Diocese of Sale We offer deep thanks to the Catholic Education Office of the Diocese of Sale (Australia) for their generous donation of 100 laptops destined for four Marist schools in Fiji. Special thanks to Br Tony Clark (Team Leader, Pastoral Life and Mission) and Shane Doyle (General Manager, Information and Technology) for coordinating the shipment. Thank you, Diocese of Sale! We also acknowledge the kindness of Marist Old Boy, Richard Chow, who helped in generously shipping the laptops from Melbourne to Suva. Bougainville: Rebuilding in Mabiri Much gratitude to Benedict Tooming, who has been transforming the former Brothers’ house in Mabiri, Bougainville, into a beautifully restored and welcoming home for the Brothers - and potentially, future candidates. Former Brothers' house being renovated.

Last week of June, St Michel Technical College in Santo, Vanuatu, welcomed some special visitors - a group of students and teachers from St John’s College in Hamilton, Aotearoa New Zealand. The visit was part of an ongoing relationship between the two schools and reflected the spirit of learning and cultural exchange across the Province. During their time at St Michel, the group toured the college’s vocational education facilities, with a particular focus on the carpentry, joinery, and engineering departments. These workshops are at the heart of the school’s commitment to practical, skills-based learning that empowers students to be well-prepared for life after school. The visitors had the opportunity to witness first-hand the high level of craftsmanship and dedication shown by the students. In addition to the visit and tour, the St John’s group donated a range of sports equipment, including footballs, netballs, and training resources. The gifts were met with great excitement by the St Michel students, who were quick to put the equipment to use, with both groups gearing up to play on the school grounds. The visit was brief but meaningful. It offered the St John’s students an insight into the life and learning environment of their peers in Vanuatu, while also providing an opportunity for the latter to explore the unique learning style of their peers in Aotearoa. Immersions like these happen across the Province, giving our students a chance to learn about the many ways we are different, yet bound together by a common thread - the spirit of our Marist family. Contributed by Br Jean Marie Batick, Vanuatu

From 27 to 29 June, the Marist Association of St Marcellin Australia held its Fourth National Assembly at Marist College Ashgrove, bringing together more than 120 Marists from across the country. It was a deeply reflective and energising three days filled with prayer, listening, discernment, strategic discussion, storytelling, and moments of genuine connection. This Assembly marked a significant milestone - ten years since the Association’s founding. From its inception, the Marist Association has grown steadily, now with over 1,000 members and 50 local groups across Australia, in nearly every state and territory. The new Council of the Association. Set on the beautiful grounds of Ashgrove, the Assembly opened with a welcome from Executive Director Richard Quinn, inviting participants into a space of spiritual focus and honest reflection. It was an opportunity to revisit commitments made three years ago, to assess progress, and to imagine a renewed vision for the road ahead. Br Darren Burge, the new Leader, with Br Peter Carroll, the outgoing Leader. At the heart of the Assembly was the use of Spiritual Conversation methodology - a thoughtful and prayerful approach to dialogue popularised by the 2021–2024 Synod of Bishops. Through deep listening and mutual respect, members were invited to engage with questions such as: Who will we be? What do we care about? What will we do? Facilitator Prof Br David Hall described the experience as “an opportunity for profound wisdom to emerge in an environment of mutual respect.” Br Michael Green, Br David Hall and Ross Tarlinton. He noted that this year’s discernment centred on key themes such as deepening our spiritual grounding, strengthening local group connections, ensuring financial and structural sustainability, and renewing our commitment to walking with young people - especially those on the margins. One participant, Stuart McClorey from Newman College Perth, reflected, “It was nourishing to be among people who hold the same hopes for their communities and who are committed to walking gently, purposefully, and with faith. What stayed with me most, though, was the quality of listening - how every voice was heard and every story respected.” Br Neville Solomon, Christine Meharg, and Matthew Hutchison. At the closing Mass, Archbishop Mark Coleridge formally commissioned the new Association Leader, Br Darren Burge, and the incoming Council. Br Darren succeeds Br Peter Carroll, Provincial of the Marist Brothers Star of the Sea Province, who served as the Association’s Leader over the past two terms. Joining Br Darren on the Council are Br Michael Callinan, Lee MacMaster, Joe McCarthy, and Zack Pizzingrilli, who will serve alongside continuing Councillors: Julia Lederwasch (Deputy Leader), Jasmine Brown, Madeline Forde, Br David Hall, Daniel Lynch, and Donna McLaughlin. Reflecting on the leadership transition, Br Peter Carroll said, “Br Darren has the full confidence of the Association. He has been deeply involved since its inception, and his warmth, attentiveness, and deep experience make him a natural choice to lead. His years of leadership at the John Berne School and St Augustine’s College Cairns, as well as his service on Provincial Councils and as Vice Provincial, have equipped him with the skills and vision needed to guide the Association forward.” The new Council being blessed by Archbishop Mark Coleridge.  Br Darren and the new Council will now begin the task of developing a Pastoral Plan - a strategic roadmap to guide the Association’s mission over the next three years. View more pics: Read more on ChristLife Connect.