Marist Laity Melbourne

Planning for 2006 and Beyond
At our first meeting 25 February 2006, we spent considerable time discussing where our focus should be in living the Marist spirit in our time, mindful that what we do is consistent with the spirit of the 2005 Social Justice Statement in addressing the social and spiritual dimensions of living justly, simply, caring lovingly. The following three areas will provide us with a vision and purpose for 2006 and beyond, we believe that in creating this space our identity, as Marist Laity will grow: And, with all our activities we have in mind that we may attract new members to join our ranks.

1. Contribute towards building organizational links with MLA
Following our proposal to MLA on 24 February 2006 recommending that a review of the Interim Guidelines July 2003 be undertaken with the objective of including active Marist groups on the core committee. On March 21, 2006, we were pleased to receive news from Maria Baden Convener MLA, that the core committee is redrafting the Guidelines to include active Marist Regions and will circulate minutes and agendas and other relevant information. Thank you MLA especially Maria Baden, we are delighted with your response and look forward to reciprocating. The first task is to take an active role in contributing to the work of MLA, through improved organizational links, communication and hospitality within the Australia wide Marist lay groups.

2.Develop Advocacy role in Melbourne's Eastern Region
As residents of the Eastern Region of Melbourne with personal experience of the traumatic situations facing many individuals and families we have a responsibility as lay Catholics to act responsibly in every area, not just within the parish. "We need to be unknown not unknowing". The first task: To document case studies, describing a number of situations, that will raise issues for developing strategies in addressing the needs. This is complex but overtime, with experience and persistence some inroads will be made. Furthermore, as we approach this work, we are raising awareness and developing skills for effective advocacy.

3. Develop Marist Spirit through Art, Music, Literature events and studies
An important aspect of this development is that it has the potential to bring before the eyes of people who have never heard of the Marist spirit, an appreciation of the role of Mary, Mother of God in today's world. (Think of the Vatican). (Our first event for 2006 is Ursula Betka-Hymes's talk on icons). While this is a broad-brush objective, it is also accessible to us. Brother Bryan Leak will research the potential within other Marists groups. Our preamble has been interesting, in that we have examples of many local inspirations. The first task: To write a short paper after a period of research.

Current:
A talk on Religious Icons
With the assistance of Sr Marie Berise we have organized "A Talk on Religious Icons" by Ursula Betka-Hymes's 20 May 2006. Ursula said time permitting; she may be able to conduct a larger meeting on icons towards the end of the year. Visit by Father John Craddock, Marist Laity Coordinator, New Zealand on 21 February 2006. We were pleased to welcome John to Melbourne and look forward to spending more time sharing ideas for future developments.

Late 2005 Activities
June O'Bryan, who is a member of Marist Laity Melbourne and also Secretary of the Burwood & District Inter Church Council, gave an interesting talk on the work of the council, which is closely associated with the Victorian Council of Churches. What followed June's talk was recognition of the significant growth in shared faith and activities over 30 years involving 8 local churches including St Scholastica's church. What became evident was that our mutual beliefs and faith had cemented strong ecumenical ties. However, these ties need to be treasured and built upon. We were privileged to welcome Sr Marie Berise who presented a wonderfully riveting account of her monograph "Bearers of Hope to the World" with beautifully presented series of slides depicting the rich historical journey of early Marist culture and development. Thank you Sr Marie and welcome back to Melbourne.

In the December 2005, Margaret Smyth (Group Leader Melbourne Victoria) attended the MLA meeting at Hunter's Hill. As an active group, this was a great boost to the Melbourne group who has been keen to spend time with MLA.

Our Christmas breakup was a celebration of the Mass by PP Father Brian Bainbridge followed by a time of reflection on our personal outreach to those in need during the year. This was followed by a relaxing social time spent over afternoon tea.

Marist Laity Melbourne
26 March 2006


For more information

http://www.maristmelb.org.au/layPartnerships/