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.

On 21 June, the LaValla community came together to celebrate a special milestone - 27 years since the founding of LaValla School, in Cambodia which has grown into the heart of what we now know as the LaValla Project. The day began with a prayer service, where the story of LaValla’s beginnings was shared once again. During the service, the community took time to remember and bless everyone who has been part of the journey over the years - Brothers, students, staff, and donors. In a moving gesture, students carried containers of blessed water to each corner of the school grounds and gently poured them out; a symbolic blessing for the past, present, and future of LaValla and all who pass through its gates. With voices raised in a cheerful chorus of "Happy Birthday LaValla", the celebrations picked up pace, followed by dancing and laughter that filled the space with joy. It was a simple but powerful way to mark all that has been achieved over the years. Later in the day, the school also celebrated the birthdays of students whose special days had fallen in recent months - a small tradition that means a lot to the young people in our care. For some of the long-serving staff, the day was especially meaningful. A number of them have been part of the LaValla story since its beginning, and others were recognised for reaching 10 years of service to the children and the mission of LaValla. Each received a certificate - a small token of gratitude for a decade of dedication. None of these celebrations would be possible without the hard work of the staff at LaValla School and Village, who continue to give so much of themselves to the young people they serve. Much gratitude to everyone involved in making the celebrations such a big success! View more pics:   Contributed by Br Brian Kinsella, Chair, Marist Solidarity Cambodia

Climate concerns are deeply real and urgent in the Star of the Sea Province. Of the 11 countries that make up the Province, 10 are island nations - many of which are already feeling the ongoing and serious impacts of climate change. Ecological initiatives have long been a priority for the Province. In keeping with that vision, the Laudato Si’ Committee has launched a beautiful new initiative: Buy A Tree. Read more from Jennifer Miller, Chair of the Star of the Sea Province Laudato Si’ Committee. This year, our Marist theme is Pilgrims of Hope  - and throughout our Province, we’re seeing green shoots of that hope. In early 2024, Br Peter Carroll, Star of the Sea Provincial, shared a thought-provoking discussion paper with the Committee. It outlined our ecological responsibilities and invited us to consider how the Province, might reduce our carbon footprint. Among the eight proposals he offered, two stood out: first, the idea of placing a small levy on travel; and second, planting trees across our Province - from Mittagong to Marist communities across the 11 countries we serve. Marist School kids in Samoa working on a garden. In response, on behalf of the LSAC, I had the great pleasure, alongside Mark Pauschmann, Executive Director of Province Ministeries, of launching the Buy A Tree  initiative, or BAT for short, at the recent Marist Association of Sta Marcellin National Assembly. Envisioned by Br Peter, the Buy A Tree  project invites both Marists and friends of the Marist family to contribute to tree planting efforts across our Province. While it's not a carbon offset scheme in the formal sense as no carbon credits are traded - it is a practical and hope-filled response to Pope Francis’ urgent call in Laudato Si’ : to hear the cry of the Earth and to heal creation. The Hermitage, Mittagong, Australia. If you’d like to contribute, it’s easy. Visit our Province website, click on Get Involved , then select the Buy a Tree  initiative . There, you’ll find three giving options: Buy 1 tree for $7.50 — ideal for a return domestic flight or car trip. Buy 2 trees for $15 — for a return international flight. Or, if you’re a frequent traveller, buy in bulk: 10 trees for $75 . Every contribution supports approved reforestation and regeneration projects across the Province. Sites receiving funds will provide twice-yearly reports - with updates and photos available on the Province website. The climate emergency is the greatest challenge of our time. Margaret Mead once said, “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it's the only thing that ever has.” Please join us to care for creation, one trip at a time. -Jenifer Miller, Chair, Laudato Si Committee

Across the Marist Pacific region, our communities continue to live out the spirit of Marcellin Champagnat - in prayer, service, education, and joyful fraternity. Here is a snapshot of recent happenings from Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Samoa, and beyond. Vocations and Mission in Kairiru Island, PNG In Sepik, Papua New Guinea, Brothers John Curry and Cyril Benora recently spent time promoting vocations on Kairiru Island, engaging with young people in conversations about faith, purpose, and the call to Marist life. It was a meaningful opportunity to witness to our charism and invite others to consider walking the Marist path. Brothers John Curry and Cyril Benora. A Morning at the Marist Champagnat Institute - Suva, Fiji At the Marist Champagnat Institute in Suva, students have been actively engaged in both agricultural and technical training. In the gardens, students planted Chinese cabbage seedlings and took pride in maintaining their plots. Meanwhile, in the carpentry and joinery section, the boys worked on hands-on projects with dedication and enthusiasm. Daily life at the Institute continues to foster growth, confidence, and joy among the students. Student at the Marist Champagnat Institute planting Chinese Cabbage seedlings and cleaning their garden. Boys of the carpentry and joinery section working on their projects. Celebrating Marist Spirit: Fiji Marist Old Boys Gather in Samoa The Fiji Marist Brothers Old Boys in Samoa gathered recently at St Marcellin Hall, Mulivai, to mark three significant occasions: Fiji Marist Brothers Old Boys in Samoa. Honouring the memory of Marist Brothers, particularly Br Sam, and two Marist Fathers buried at Moamoa who had once served at St John’s College, Cawaci. Celebrating the Feast of St Marcellin Champagnat, a moment of deep significance for all Marists. Rejoicing in the recent achievement of Marist Brothers High School, who won the Coca-Cola Track and Field Games for the third consecutive year - a proud moment for the entire Marist community. A Heartwarming Visit in Alafua, Samoa In Alafua, Br David Lavin received a touching visit from his friend Malala, a young man with special needs from Aleipata. Malala brought to’ana’i  (Sunday lunch) for the Brothers and spent time with them, sharing stories in both English and Samoan. The visit was a moving reminder of the deep bonds formed through simple acts of care - Malala had never forgotten the love and attention shown to him by the Brothers. Br David Lavin with his friend Malala. Contributed by Br John Hazelman, Provincial Delegate to Pasifika and Br Steve Vaea

Following the recent Marist Higher Education Conference in Rome, Br Peter Corr arranged for a team of university staff from Notre Dame of Dadiangas University in the Philippines to come to Timor-Leste and provide Inservice training of Instituto Catolico para Formacao de Professores (ICFP) Staff. The ‘training of trainers’ sessions took place over two weeks during Jun including learning pedagogy in Mathematics, how to apply inductive, deductive, flipped classroom and project-based learning methods in the learning process of mathematics. At the end of the fortnight a signed memorandum of understanding between ICFP and NDDU took place, and the distribution of certificates of appreciation to all trainers and participants. It is wonderful to build relationships with another Marist tertiary institute and ICFP looks forward to growing stronger ties with NDDU in the years to come.

In June, 13 of our Scholastic Brothers began their teaching practicum placements (estajiu) in both Catholic and government schools across the Diocese of Baucau and Lautem. This important stage of their formation allows them to put their learning into practice while deepening their commitment to the Marist vocation through direct service in education. The Brothers are engaged not only in classroom teaching but also in broader ministry roles, including music ministry, after-school programs, and active participation in local parish life. Their presence brings energy and witness to the communities they serve, offering students the unique opportunity to learn from young men deeply rooted in faith, service, and mission. Br Juvencio Nia (2nd Year ICFP) Br Jefriano Timo (1st Year ICFP) Br Clementino Xavier (2nd Year ICFP) Br Edgar Salgueiro (1st Year ICFP) Br Feliciano Bere Mali (1st Year ICFP) Br Jefriano Timo (1st Year ICFP) Many of us can recall the challenges and rewards of practicum teaching - from the long nights spent preparing lessons to the balancing act of engaging students while earning the approval of supervising teachers. For our Scholastics, this period offers both growth and insight, forming a solid foundation for their future ministry as educators and Marist Brothers. We thank our Brothers for their dedication, passion, and the joy they bring into their work. Their presence is a blessing to the schools and communities they serve - and we look forward to sharing more photos and stories in the July edition. Congratulations and well done, Brothers! -Br Greg McDonald Provincial Delegate to Timor-Leste and Cambodia

The formation of Champagnat Marists in Timor-Leste is a key goal of our Community Vision for Marist life and mission. Last week this goal took a further step when Mestre Salvador Magno Ximenes and Mana Henriqueta Pereira da Costa attended the Footsteps program in Australia at Mittagong. Salvador and Henriqueta enjoyed many wonderful experiences in Sydney, visiting Province Administration and several Marist Schools. Henriqueta and Salvador with Tony Clarke, Br Peter Carroll (Provincial) and Mark O’Farrell. We look forward to listening to their experiences and the programs that they will bring and hopefully shape for the formation of Timorese staff and future Champagnat Marists. My grateful appreciation to Tony Clarke, Director, and staff of the Mission and Life Formation Team for accompanying them so well during their time in Australia and the Brothers Community for kindly hosting our two colleagues. Receiving the Icon of Our Lady Star of the Sea from Provincial, Br Peter Carroll. In front of the Syndey Opera House. Visiting Saint Joseph’s College Hunters Hill in Sydney. With the Mission and Life Formation team. -Br Greg McDonald Provincial Delegate to Timor-Leste and Cambodia

There are now three congregations of Religious Brothers conducting missions in the Diocese of Baucau. The Marist Brothers (FMS), the Sagrada Familia or Holy Family Brothers (FSF) and now the La Mennais Brothers (FICP) or Brothers of Christian Instruction. The Brothers’ congregations were founded in France within 14 years of each other. Last Sunday Br Greg McDonald, Br Peter Corr, Br Isac Quintao and Br Salvador Ferreira met with three FICP Brothers who arrived in the Diocese of Baucau earlier this year and are living in Manatuto; Br Stefan, Br Philippe and Br Eric. It was an opportunity for the FICP Brothers to learn a little about the story of our Marist mission in Timor-Leste and ways of developing links with Diocesan and Government agencies as well as growing new membership for the congregation. We continue to wish the La Mennais Brothers well as they begin to find their feet in this new mission in Timor-Leste. Words and pic courtesy: Br Greg McDonald

There are now officially three Marist Brothers’ communities in Timor-Leste - a remarkable sign of how the Marist presence is growing in the region. Both the Scholasticate and Postulancy programs have now successfully relocated to their new formation home in Triloka, Baucau. Postulants with Br Matthew and Br Raphael at Triloka. What was once a scrubland has been transformed into a flourishing Marist village - a vibrant, purpose-built space that will support the growth and formation of our Brothers and future candidates for many years to come. With 26 Brothers in Timor-Leste, this new community at Triloka is a reflection of the momentum and spirit of our growing mission. The Formation Centre "This project has been a labour of love and vision. Sincere thanks go to Br Peter Corr and his dedicated team for guiding this remarkable development to near completion. Congratulations also to Br Tony Caddy, Br Matthew Green, and Br Raphael Fakia for leading the complex relocation from the previous residences to this new home - truly a mighty effort," says Br Greg McDonald, Provincial Delegate to Timor-Leste and Cambodia. Br Robert, Br Salvador and Br Ronaldo enjoying morning tea with local Ursuline Sisters who were among the first visitors to Triloka. While the official name of the formation centre is yet to be finalised, the site already carries the feeling of a true Marist village. These early images from Triloka show our Scholastics and Postulants settling into their new environment - one marked by beauty, simplicity, and hope. Postulant Alarico preparing his new room. "We look forward with great anticipation to the blessing and official opening of the Triloka Formation Centre in September - a celebration of new beginnings and the enduring Marist spirit," he says. View more pics:

Safeguarding isn’t just a policy - it’s a way of thinking and a responsibility we all share throughout our school community. At St Louis High School, this commitment comes to life every day through ongoing awareness, training, and a spirit of inclusion, writes Christopher Lus, Pasifika Safeguarding Coordinator. Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is a shared responsibility - one that involves every member of our community. The staff of St Louis High School, Kiribati at the recent Safeguarding seminar. At St Louis High School and among the Marist Brothers in Kiribati, we take our roles as educators and leaders in educational ministries with the utmost seriousness. Our commitment to child protection is reflected in the collaborative efforts of Brothers, staff, and Champagnat Groups across the country. These efforts are guided by principles drawn from our Marist Handbooks - particularly In the Footsteps of Marcellin Champagnat . By grounding our professional conduct in these values, we set clear expectations for behaviour, build trust within our communities, and, most importantly, ensure the safety and dignity of the children and vulnerable adults in our care. To ensure that safeguarding is not just an idea a reality, regular seminars are held across the Pasifika region. One such workshop took place just last week at St Louis High School in Kiribati. It focused on several key areas of safeguarding and child protection, including specific guidance for staff in caring for students - many of whom may face abuse at home or, at times, even within the school setting. Staff were reminded of the vital importance of having a clear, active Child Protection Policy at St Louis. The workshop also encouraged deep reflection, challenging participants with questions that sparked open discussion and meaningful presentations by teachers. These conversations are essential to building awareness and a culture of accountability. Embedding a culture of safeguarding in our schools is not optional - it is critical. Creating safe, nurturing environments requires a collective shift in mindset and practice. The true aim of a Child Protection Policy is not just compliance but transformation; to prevent harm, protect the vulnerable, ensure safe spaces, and promote the dignity of every child entrusted to us. Changing attitudes is where it begins. Every time we train a child, a teacher, or a family… every time we enact a safeguarding policy, we take a step away from broken models of the past and move closer to a just, compassionate future. Here at St Louis High School, that commitment also extends to inclusivity. We recognise and respect the varied abilities of all individuals, especially those with special needs. We understand that disability is often shaped more by society’s barriers than by individual limitations. Our goal is to ensure no student is excluded - not by infrastructure, nor by our own inability to communicate. In line with this vision, St Louis High School proudly employs five sign language teachers, continuing our mission to build a school community rooted in accessibility, dignity, and care for all. Christopher Lus Pasifika Safeguarding Coordinator

Mark Pauschmann, in his role as Executive Director of Province Ministries, has been visiting Marist communities across the province. During his recent visit to Samoa, he witnessed firsthand how the Marist spirit continues to thrive, even in the face of a few challenges. The strength of community, dedication to mission, and enduring sense of faith remain clearly visible among the Brothers and Champagnat Marists, he reports. Spending the week in Samoa was both humbling and hope-filled. From the moment I arrived, I was touched by the warmth of the community and the strong but quiet presence of the Marist spirit across both the primary and high schools and within the wider Marist community. The Marist family at Marist Primary School in Mulivai. Br Sefo Une was a gracious and generous host, taking time to show me around the Marist properties in Apia and making me feel at home. Alongside the Brothers, his warm hospitality allowed me to witness firsthand the strength and hope that continue to shape the Marist mission in Samoa. Love of work displayed by our young students. At Marist Brothers Primary School, the Champagnat Day signs created by the students were simple yet moving expressions of Marist spirit. Despite challenges such as staffing pressures and limited resources, the dedication of Br Siaosi Ioane and his team to both learning and faith is clearly evident in school life. At St Joseph’s Marist High School, the new Principal, Anne-Marie Tauliil-Lia, has been in the role for just ten weeks but is already generating real momentum. She brings fresh energy to the staff, strengthens student learning, and deepens the school’s Marist identity. Congratulations to her on such a promising start. St Joseph College students, Samoa. I had the privilege of joining staff for a professional learning session on the SOLO taxonomy, exploring ways to develop deeper thinking skills beyond memorisation. What stood out was not only their openness to growth but also their generosity, many staff give their own time after hours for extra tuition, despite being paid significantly less than teachers in other schools. This speaks volumes about their commitment to students and the school’s mission. Champagnat Day signs at Marist Brothers Primary School, Mulivai. I was also fortunate to join students praying the Rosary in the quadrangle, a moving moment of reverence and unity. Spending time with the Form 10 boys in their plantation was another highlight. Their pride in their work and support for one another reflected the values lived daily across the school. Mark Pauschmann and Br Sefo Une. I leave Samoa hopeful for what continues to grow here, quietly, faithfully, and always in the Marist way.   Words and pictures by Mark Pauchmann, Executive Director for Province Ministeries

The Marist Novitiate in Tudella, Sri Lanka, is more than a formation house - it is a vibrant, international home where young men from across Asia and the Pacific begin their formal journey into Marist religious life. Rooted in prayer, community, and simplicity, life at Tudella invites each novice to grow in faith while being immersed in the Marist charism and spirit. Abraham Jeremiah, Teweia Orea, John Chipuruka, Benjamin Alua with Br Luke Fong in Tudella, Sri Lanka. This year, the place hosts 16 first-year novices who have responded generously to God’s call. Coming from diverse backgrounds, they bring with them a beautiful mix of cultures, languages, and experiences - a living expression of our global Marist family. As they enter their fourth week at the novitiate, the community is already enriched by their presence and the unique gifts they each contribute. The 2025 novices come from the following countries: 8 from Timor-Leste 2 from Papua New Guinea 1 from the Solomon Islands 1 from Kiribati 1 from Bangladesh 1 from Vietnam 1 from India 1 from Sri Lanka Their experience is already proving to be both enriching and challenging. Several have shared honest and heartfelt reflections on their first weeks - navigating new cultures, adjusting to different foods, and facing the very real experience of homesickness. These early moments, though not always easy, are shaping them in powerful ways. Read four of our novices’ journeys in their own words - a glimpse into the joys, questions, and transformation that come with saying “yes” to the Marist way of life. John Chipuruka, Solomon Islands On 2 May, 2025, I arrived in Sri Lanka to begin my novitiate journey. It was an amazing and unforgettable experience for me as I encountered new people, different languages, cultures, and ways of life. However, this also came with a sense of cultural shock, and I felt a little homesick at first. John Chipuruka Despite these feelings, I was reminded of my discernment and the deep desire I have to become a Marist Brother. I reflected on my past experiences at home and the formation program I've been part of for almost eight years with the Marist Brothers. These thoughts gave me strength and a renewed sense of purpose. During my first two weeks as a novice, I discovered many things that brought me hope and comfort. One important discovery was the value of silence. I began to cultivate silence, which helped me to develop my inner life and to form deeper, more heartfelt relationships with my brothers. Silence also made me more aware of myself and my surroundings, and it created the space I needed for prayer, work, and rest. I also experienced how the novitiate programme is helping me grow in human, Christian, and Marist virtues. It is guiding me to integrate these values more fully into my daily life. As a novice, my main aim is to keep learning and growing. I want to learn new skills such as computer literacy and improve my English. I also want to deepen my prayer life and prepare for further studies, because in the future, I hope to become a teaching Brother. Abraham Jeremiah, PNG My journey to Sri Lanka for the novitiate was long and tiring, filled with many new experiences. At first, I was very happy and excited to explore a new place. When I arrived, everything was unfamiliar to me, and it was quite difficult to adapt to the flow of the community schedule. The people, the type of food, and the weather were challenging at first. Abraham Jeremiah After a few days, I began to discover and adjust to this new way of life. The process is still continuing, and I understand that adapting fully will take more time. We have a good number of candidates here, many of whom I shared good experiences with during postulancy. The positive spirit we had continues as we work together, support each other when in need, and grow through formation. This gives me strength and comfort as I continue my journey. I am slowly adjusting and becoming more comfortable with the situation. I look forward to discovering this new chapter in a positive way. I also hope to find enough time for personal prayer and to be more present in our shared work. This is a good and enriching experience, filled with both challenges and successes, as I gradually discover more about my journey. Teweia Orea, Kiribati At the beginning when I arrived in Sri Lanka to begin the novitiate program, I was filled with joy to meet new brothers and some of my fellow postulants from other countries. When we arrived at our formation house, I was excited and looked forward to the days ahead. The next day, I enjoyed the conversations we shared as we got to know each other and shared our stories - for example, talking about our journeys and how we came together. Later, during the orientation retreat, I enjoyed learning about each other's cultures and life experiences. The retreat also helped us understand the structure of the novitiate program before we officially began. It was a meaningful time that allowed us to bond and prepare ourselves spiritually and mentally. Teweia Orea During the induction ceremony, I felt very happy and excited to receive the Marist cross, which symbolised my transition to the next stage of my formation journey. In addition, I felt encouraged to deepen my relationship with God through community prayer and personal reflection. Upon arriving in Sri Lanka, I initially found it difficult to sleep due to the seven-hour time difference from Kiribati. I also found it challenging to walk or work alone because there are many snakes in our area, which made me cautious. The orientation retreat gave me a good foundation to reflect on my goals and how to work toward them. From the beginning of my vocational journey until now, I have been encouraged to continue developing my spiritual life and relationship with God, deepening both my personal and community prayer life. My hopes for this novitiate journey are to deepen my relationship with God and with the members of my religious community. I aim to grow in faith and spirituality, to develop a deeper understanding of the Holy Bible, and to faithfully live out the vows of Poverty, Chastity, and Obedience. Benjamin Alua, PNG Since I first began this journey, I flew from my home province to Port Moresby, the capital city of Papua New Guinea, before heading to Sri Lanka. At the airport, I felt worried about leaving my family and friends behind - especially my dad and my elder sister, Joicy. This worry was even heavier because my mother passed away on 14 August 2024, just one week after I had arrived in Timor-Leste to begin my postulancy program. It was a deeply painful time, and it made me question my vocation journey. Despite the sorrow and doubt, I didn’t give up and managed to complete the program. Benjamin Alua During my holiday break, I visited my mother’s burial site. That moment brought renewed pain and emotional strain. I even considered not continuing on to the Novitiate. But in the midst of that struggle, I reminded myself that “life is full of both pain and joy.” With patience and awareness, I chose to accept the challenges because I truly want to follow my dream of becoming a Marist Brother. With these positive thoughts, I embraced the situation and came to Sri Lanka to begin my Novitiate. Before I left, I shared a final message with my family: “Let us continue to pray for one another, and God will take care of the rest.” At that moment, I felt a deep sense of peace, confidence, and courage. I arrived in Sri Lanka with a joyful heart and a positive spirit. Traveling with my fellow Novices - Teweia from Kiribati, John from the Solomon Islands, and Abraham from PNG - was a tremendous experience. We laughed, shared stories, and enjoyed the journey together. When we arrived in Colombo, I was both excited and curious to experience a new culture and way of life. Within two days, the Brothers took us around the city, showing us the streets and a Buddhist temple. I enjoyed learning about different cultures, though I found the food very spicy and the presence of so many different religions quite eye-opening. This cultural experience, including the people I met, the new foods, and the different customs, gave me a better understanding of the world. It helped me see that even when lifestyles differ, we can still learn and grow through new experiences. Although I had a headache and felt a bit homesick at first, I accepted it as a part of life, took medicine, and recovered quickly. One of the most fascinating aspects of my experience so far has been the culture. Every country has its own traditions, but Sri Lanka’s culture feels especially complex and unique - especially the food and religious practices like those at the Buddhist temple. Though challenging at first, these differences have helped me grow and develop a deeper understanding of life. More importantly, during my two weeks at the Novitiate formation center, I have already noticed how much I am growing in faith and spirituality through prayer and personal reflection. The formation program is not only about study; it also includes recreation, outdoor walks, computer time, and opportunities for rest. It requires each person to wisely manage their time. I believe this balance will help shape me into a mature man - both spiritually and physically. Community life here is also very meaningful. Sharing prayers, meals, and celebrations together as Brothers gives me a sense of peace and confidence. It has created a supportive environment where I feel free to continue discovering myself and deepening both my spiritual life and personal well-being. I feel hopeful about my journey as a Marist Brother, strengthened in faith and committed to the mission ahead. With this spirit, I look forward to continuing my formation, especially growing in prayer and learning more about theology. I hope this will prepare me well for my mission as a Marist Brother after my profession and studies are complete. Finally, after completing my Novitiate, I hope to make my first profession as a Marist Religious Brother. I will wait patiently for Br Peter Carroll, our Provincial, to decide when I can take the next step. Special thanks to Br Luke Fong, Formator in Sri Lanka, for helping to facilitate the stories and photos.