Introduction to Marist Laity

Continue the Marist Spirit at St Patricks - Sunday Feb 23

We invite you to be part of an important conversation on how we can continue the Marist Spirit in St Patricks Church Hill community. With the Marist Fathers set to leave St Patrick’s in December 2025 after 157 years, this is an opportunity to reflect on their legacy and explore ways to develop the Marist spirit. Join us for a discussion led by Marist Laity Australia as we discern the future of the Marist presence at St Patrick’s. Time 10 am to 11 am in the Crypt of St Patrick’s Church Hill. All are welcome!
 

Transformation - Richard Rohr

Richard Rohr begins by emphasizing that transformation is not just about external change but a deep renewal of consciousness. He references Romans 12:2, where Paul speaks of transformation through the renewal of the mind, using the Greek word metamorphosis, which signifies a complete change in form. Rohr argues that much of organized religion teaches people what to see rather than how to see, which hinders true transformation. He stresses that authentic spiritual growth is not about accumulating religious knowledge or following checklists of sacraments but about developing a contemplative mind that allows one to see reality as it truly is, without personal biases or self-interest.

Father Jim - I am not worthy

Fr. Jim begins by recalling a humorous scene from the movie Wayne’s World, where the main characters bow before their idol, saying, 'We're not worthy!' He connects this idea to the biblical experiences of Peter and Isaiah, both of whom felt unworthy in the presence of God. Peter, after witnessing Jesus perform the miracle of the great catch of fish, reacts by saying, 'Leave me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.' Similarly, Isaiah, upon seeing a vision of God, declares that he is unclean. Fr. Jim explains that this deep sense of unworthiness is actually a sign of a genuine encounter with God, as it reveals our human limitations in the face of divine greatness.
 

Paris Je Taime | Paris I Love

Paris, Je T'aime (2006) is an anthology film composed of 18 short segments, each directed by a different filmmaker, set in various neighborhoods (arrondissements) of Paris. The stories explore themes of love, connection, and loss, portraying diverse relationships through encounters between strangers, long-time partners, and families. From a tourist experiencing an unexpected romance to a lonely American woman discovering a new appreciation for life in Paris, each segment captures a unique emotional tone and perspective on love. The film blends various genres. In one of the most poignant segments of Paris, Je T’aime, a man prepares to leave his wife, believing that their marriage has lost its spark. He rehearses his breakup speech, convinced that his love for her has faded, and is ready to move on. However, just as he is about to tell her, she reveals devastating news—she has been diagnosed with leukemia. This revelation abruptly shifts his perspective, as he realizes the depth of his feelings for her and the significance of their shared life.

Reckless Love (Acoustic) - Cory Asbury

Before I spoke a word, You were singing over me. You have been so, so good to me. Before I took a breath, You breathed Your life in me. You have been so so kind to me.
 

Prayer - Instruments of Gods Love - John 3:16

Share this prayer with your family, community or class exploring the Gospel from John 3 through song, gospel, reflection, discussion and common prayer.

The difference between - healthy and unhealthy love - Katie Hood

Katie Hood begins by highlighting the universal experience of love and how, despite its importance, people are rarely taught how to love in a healthy way. Many of us enter friendships, romantic relationships, and even parenthood without guidance, often engaging in or experiencing unhealthy relationship behaviors. These can range from subtle actions like guilt-tripping a friend to more severe forms like emotional abuse and control. The Katie Hood emphasizes that everyone, at some point, will both commit and experience unhealthy behaviors, making it crucial to recognize and address them before they escalate into serious harm, including relationship abuse, which affects a significant portion of the population.
 

Embracing Simplicity - in a Culture of Excess

This guided reflection 'Embracing Simplicity in a Culture of Excess' explores how modern society promotes materialism, consumerism, and busyness, which often lead to stress and dissatisfaction. It encourages reflection on what truly matters by following the example of Jesus and Mary, who lived simple, faith-centered lives. The document discusses practical ways to embrace simplicity, such as reassessing work-life balance, resisting the urge for financial excess, and making time for stillness. It highlights that choosing a simpler life allows for deeper relationships, greater purpose, and spiritual fulfillment. A series of reflective questions guide readers in evaluating their lifestyle choices, and a final call to embrace simplicity as a Marist value emphasizes the importance of trusting God and being present to others.

Immanence - Studies of Religion - Nature of Religion

Immanence, a key concept in religious thought, refers to the belief that the divine is present within the world and actively involved in human existence, contrasting with transcendence, which emphasizes God's separateness. In Christianity, God's immanence is seen through the Incarnation of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit’s presence within believers. Islam highlights divine closeness through Allah’s nearness, as described in the Qur'an, and practices such as prayer and remembrance of God. In Judaism, the concept of Shekhinah represents God's presence dwelling among people, deepened by Jewish mysticism. Hinduism expresses immanence through the belief that Brahman, the ultimate reality, exists within all beings as Atman, while Buddhism teaches that enlightenment is found within, through the Buddha-nature inherent in every individual. Across these traditions, immanence fosters a personal and accessible connection between the divine and humanity, shaping spiritual experiences and moral guidance.
 

Sources of Good Works - Natural Law - SICT

This task involves exploring Natural Law Theory through various learning activities. You begin by noting sources of good work in their exercise book, then watch and analyze three videos on Natural Law Theory, summarizing 15–20 key points for each. Next, they engage in ethical reasoning by examining three scenarios where moral dilemmas arise, applying Natural Law principles to determine the most virtuous course of action. You then create their own scenario and analyze it using Natural Law, emphasizing concepts like human dignity, rationality, and moral responsibility. They share and discuss their scenarios with peers, providing constructive feedback on moral reasoning and clarity. Finally, students summarize their discussions, take a photo of their completed work, and submit it for marking.


 




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Top Rated Web pages for February 2025
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1Movie - Bakhita - From Slave to Saint
In 1948 Aurora Marin arrives with her family at the convent of the Canossian Sisters of Schio, Italy, where Sister Bakhita has just died. Aurora was hoping to see her before she died. She gathers her children around the picture of Bakhita and tells them of the incredible life of the woman that had raised her as her nanny.
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2Handbook for leaders of Marist Laity Groups - Part IV - Summary of Marist Spirituality
Fundamental to the Marist movement is the conviction that it was Mary’s initiative which called the Society of Mary into existence. She expressed her desire in these words: “Here is what I want . . . a Society which will have my name, which will be called the Society of Mary, whose members will call themselves Marists.” It is she who chose and called the first Marists into her enterprise by giving them her name.
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3Reflection on Solitude - Mark 7:31
We can recognize here the place of solitude in Jesus’ life. The English word “solitude” has its roots in the Latin word, solus, meaning “alone”. It is, however, quite different from simply “being alone”. Solitude is about being present to yourself – really present. That can indeed be aided by being alone. However, we can also experience solitude in a crowd. And we can resist solitude when we are alone. Solitude is a choice. It is facing the truth within. Solitude is an essential part of becoming
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4Australias Incredible Cruelty to Refugees
Phil Glendenning brings tales of horror about refugees sent back to their countries by Australia. He provides compelling arguments to support the claim that the Australian public is being lied to by its politicians.
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5Having fun with our children
My children have been on school holidays. Always, entertaining kids can be quite difficult. Take yesterday. My wife had to work leaving me, dad, to look after the kids. We had planned to go to the skate park.
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