The Christlife Podcast's second edition for 2024, presented by Tracey DeBlais from the Marist Association of St Marcel and Champagnat, offers a comprehensive look into the March edition of their Christ Life publication and updates from the Marist Association. The podcast features a segment with Stuart Maclaury, Acting Director of Mission and Catholic Identity at Newman College, Perth, as part of the 'Meet a Marist' series. Richard Quinn, Executive Director of the Marist Association, contributes as the editorialist, highlighting various articles, announcements, and reflections not fully covered in the audio format.
Key highlights include the announcement of the 2024 Marian Lecture by Professor Amy-Jill Levine on the Jewish Jesus, scheduled for May 7th, which will be available online and followed by public engagements in Sydney, Brisbane, and Melbourne. The podcast also introduces a new online calendar of events for members and covers local group gatherings, including the St Pat's Walk by Sydney City Marists and a regional gathering in Sydney Inner West focusing on volunteerism in building the new hermitage.
Easter reflections from Brother Tony Vaughan, insights into the demographic shifts and challenges faced by religious institutes in Australia, and the strategic focus on maintaining the Marist charism and mission are discussed. The historical significance of the Marist foundation and its vision for a new way of being church, inspired by the early church and Mary's role, are emphasized.
The podcast also explores the Solomon Islands' Our Lady Queen of Martyrs school project, supported by Australian Marist Solidarity, highlighting the community's educational and spiritual needs. Stuart Maclaury shares his personal journey and the impact of Marist values on his life and work at Newman College. Lastly, the podcast delves into the theme 'First Light, Reveal the Spirit,' reflecting on the Marist mission's ongoing commitment to spreading the light of Christ in the world, inspired by 200 years of Marist heritage.
This edition of the Christlife Podcast weaves together community updates, spiritual reflections, and the ongoing mission of the Marist Association, offering listeners a rich tapelet of Marist life and spirituality.
Questions for further reflection
What is the main theme of the 2024 Marian Lecture discussed in the Christlife Podcast?
Who shared their journey and role within the Marist community in the 'Meet a Marist' segment?
How does the podcast highlight the challenges faced by religious institutes in Australia?
What specific project in the Solomon Islands is supported by Australian Marist Solidarity, and why is it significant?
In what ways does Stuart Maclaury describe the impact of Marist values on his life and work at Newman College?
How does the podcast address the importance of maintaining the Marist charism and mission amidst changing demographics?
What is the significance of the theme 'First Light, Reveal the Spirit' in the context of the Marist mission and the 200th anniversary of Marist heritage?
Listen to the following song, while reflecting on these questions
Song - Dare to Dream
Final Prayer
Heavenly Father, in the spirit of our founders, Jean-Claude Colin, Marcellin Champagnat, Jean-Claude Courveille, and Jeanne-Marie Chavoin, we come before You with hearts full of gratitude and aspiration. Inspired by their vision, we pray to embody the humility, strength, and compassion of Mary, our Mother, in all our endeavors. Guide us to live out the Marist dream, nurturing a society that mirrors the early Church, where love, unity, and service flourish. Empower us to be bearers of Your light and love, reaching out to the marginalized and bringing hope to the hearts of all we encounter. May our lives reflect Mary's simplicity and her unwavering faith in Your divine will. Strengthen our commitment to the Marist mission, that we may continue to sow seeds of Your Kingdom on earth, fostering communities of faith that are vibrant, inclusive, and reflective of Mary's nurturing spirit. Through the intercession of our Marist founders and under the mantle of Mary, we commit ourselves anew to Your service and to the living out of the Gospel. Amen.
(Audio Available)
