Marist Laity Australia has organized a 40-day Novena and Fast dedicated to praying for peace in regions including Gaza, Ukraine, Russia, Israel, Myanmar/Burma, Yemen, Ethiopia, Syria, and Afghanistan. Participants are encouraged to engage in daily meditation, focusing initially on their breathing followed by scripture reading and prayer. If possible, attending daily mass and praying for peace as a family or community are also key components of the Novena. Participants are asked to fast by skipping one meal a day, substituting it with bread and water, and keeping other meals light. Additionally, engaging in the sacrament of reconciliation, to foster a deeper spiritual commitment throughout this period.

Reflecting on the 208 years since the first Marists took the pledge of Fourvière in 1816, we envision how this dream will evolve by 2232, guided by Mary’s spirit. Mary's life, marked by faith, courage, and hidden acts of devotion, inspires us to live our faith authentically in today's world. As a lay Marist, I see Mary's call in my life, urging us to embrace a life led by the Holy Spirit and committed to social justice. Fourvière invites us to recognize God's spirit, share good news, and make a difference. Our story, inspired by Mary's, becomes a journey to bring God's light into our contexts and lives, embracing our shared calling with faith and dedication.

We warmly invite you to a presentation titled 'From Darkness to Light - An Exploration of Domestic Violence' on Sunday, September 8, from 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm at the Holy Name of Mary Church Hall, Hunters Hill. This event features Ms. Livia La Rocca, a trained psychologist with 20 years of experience working with the Good Shepherd Sisters, and Ms. Nicole Yade, CEO of the Women and Girls Emergency Centre, a specialist homelessness service for women and families escaping domestic violence. Hosted by the Marist Family JPIC Committee, this insightful event requires an RSVP by September 1. We look forward to your presence and participation.

The Fourvière Celebration commemorates the origins of the Marist Society, which began with Jean-Claude Courveille's miraculous healing at a Marian shrine, leading to his profound devotion and the establishment of the Society of Mary. Inspired by a message from Mary to form a society to battle against disbelief, Courveille and his fellow seminarians dedicated themselves to this mission. On July 23, 1816, they solemnized their commitment at the Fourvière chapel in Lyon, France, by signing a document and celebrating Mass. This event marked the start of the Marist Fathers, Brothers, and Sisters, who sought to emulate Mary's humility and serve through education and missionary work. Despite Courveille's later departure under a cloud of scandal, the Marist tradition continued to flourish, emphasizing the importance of embracing both the successes and trials of their history. This celebration integrates the entire journey of the Marist Society, inviting reflection on personal and collective commitment to their legacy.

Pray this prayer with your family, community, school or friends. Download the prayer. PRINT the prayer for each person. Spend 15 minutes praying through mindfulness. In Drawing, Colouring, Writing, Sharing, Discussion, and Song. Tell your family. Set a time. Pray mindfully.

Hunters Hill welcomes Tonga 'united we stand' the hunters hill community would like to invite you all to join the Tongan community for an afternoon of fellowship, food and family.