The Assumption is about hope for all humanity

Dear Marists,

It’s August and the heart of the month for us is the glorious feast of Mary’s Assumption into heaven. What is the importance of this mystery for us?

Karl Rahner, the great 20 century theologian writes: “Mary, with the whole reality of her life body and soul - has entered into that perfect fulfilment which every Christian hopes for from the grace of God as the one outcome and fruit of his/her own human life.”

The Assumption is about hope for all humanity- for the whole cosmos! As I look back since our last newsletter I see much to be hopeful for in our Marist family. The May reflection day led by Br Des Murphy; the Marcellin Champagnat celebration in June and the Fourviere Mass in July bringing the Marist Family together with typical Marist Brothers’ hospitality and news of the Jeanne-Marie Chavoin Year which you can read about in this issue.

In early July, Ann Dooley, the keynote Speaker for our Conference, drove up from Melbourne to discuss with the Committee her thoughts on the theme for the conference “Do Whatever He Tells You.”

Ann is a lay Marist, working with the Marist Brothers in Melbourne as the Co-ordinator of the Lay Partnership. She has a very interesting history, having worked in nursing as a midwife within and without Aboriginal communities. Anne also has a Master’s degree in Spiritual Direction. As Anne voiced her thoughts and feelings, we all knew that we had chosen wisely this woman who is filled with the spirit of Mary. Her very presence filled us all with great hope for Marist Laity’s International Conference, calling us to listen to Mary’s words at the wedding feast of Cana. In a world where we are literally bombarded with so many conflicting voices, the simple, gentle advice of Mary calls us into a real relationship with Jesus.

Without sponsorship, a conference would remain but an idea! I would like to therefore acknowledge and thank our three corporate sponsors: Catholic development Fund, Carroll & O’Dea Lawyers and Programmed Maintenance Services. Their logos are displayed in this newsletter as well as on our Conference Web site – www.maristlaityaustralia.com

Their generous donations will help to pay for the costs involved with putting on such an event. –

Maria Baden.