The second online forum of the Marist Association began with a welcome and prayer, marking National Reconciliation Week and acknowledging the importance of Indigenous voices and spiritual heritage in Australia. The Gospel reading from Matthew’s Beatitudes set a reflective tone, reminding participants of their shared call to humility, justice, and mercy. Apologies were made for the absence of Brother Peter Carroll due to travel delays, and participants were reminded that the session would be recorded and made available online. A powerful prayer focused on reconciliation, care for creation, and the significance of Indigenous wisdom grounded the group in a shared sense of purpose and faith.
Michael Green delivered a comprehensive and prophetic historical reflection titled 'Whence We Have Come, and Whither Can We Go?' He charted the journey of Marist life in Australia over the last 30 years, from early collaborative efforts between Marist Brothers and lay people to the formation of a robust lay-led movement. He emphasized key milestones such as the Sharing Our Call formation program, the establishment of Marist Schools Australia, and the founding of the Marist Association in 2015. Michael highlighted the Association’s growing identity as a community of Christian disciples living out Marist spirituality, and noted its increasingly autonomous yet deeply connected relationship with the Marist Brothers. He urged ongoing leadership development, formation, and structural renewal to ensure the vitality and mission of the Association into the future.
The forum concluded with practical updates in preparation for the June assembly. Participants were encouraged to read key documents on the Marist Association website, including the strategic directions report and annual reports from various ministries. Calls were made for volunteers in various roles—from table coordinators and tech support to musicians and liturgical readers. Justin Golding also introduced the Growing Marist Life online formation program scheduled for June 11. With over 115 registered so far, participants were encouraged to promote the assembly and ensure registration. The session ended on time, with thanks extended to all contributors and anticipation for the national gathering at Ashgrove.
Journal and reflect on the following
How has the Marist Association helped shape your understanding of what it means to be a Marist today?
What role does formation play in your personal and professional growth as a Marist?
How can we ensure that the spirit of reconciliation and justice remains central to our Marist mission?
What does co-responsibility for Marist life and mission mean in your local context?
In what ways can we continue to renew and regenerate membership within the Marist Association?
How does the spirituality of “Come!”—God’s invitation—shape the way we welcome others into our community?
What contribution can you personally make to the future direction and vitality of the Marist movement?
Discuss
Song - Salve Regina
Final Prayer
Loving God, You call us again and again with the simple and powerful word: “Come.” In the spirit of Mary and Marcellin, may we respond with open hearts, ready to follow where You lead. Form us as disciples, shape us through community, and fill us with Your Spirit so that we may serve with humility, love, and courage. In our shared mission, help us to listen deeply, act boldly, and walk together in faith, always drawing others to Your living water. May our Marist family grow in unity and purpose, so that Jesus may be known and loved. Amen.
