I cannot attend - Fourviere this year

This heartfelt reflection invites families and lay Marists to rediscover the spirit of Fourvière—the moment in 1816 when twelve young seminarians pledged to live in the way of Mary. Although we may be distant from Marist institutions today, this video encourages us to bring the Marist dream home by celebrating “Marist Christmas” with our families. Through storytelling, simple rituals, and renewed commitment, we can rekindle our Marist identity and call down the Holy Spirit to guide us in Mary’s way. Join us in saying, “Happy Fourvière to you.”



Talk about these following questions in your family and community

1. What does it mean for our family to live “in the way of Mary” today?
   (Think about qualities like humility, care, presence, and trust.)
   
   
2. Which Marist stories or people (e.g. Colin, Champagnat, Chavoin, Perroton) inspire us most—and why?
3. How can we bring the Marist spirit into our home, school, or local community this week?
4. What are some simple, everyday actions that reflect being Marist—even without using the word?
5. Have we ever felt distant from our Marist roots? What might help us reconnect more deeply?
6. What is one commitment we can each make this year to live the Marist dream more fully?
7. How can we call upon the Holy Spirit together as a family to guide us in faith, service, and love?

Discuss

Song - Fourviere Pledge



Final Prayer

Loving God,
We thank You for the gift of the Marist spirit, born in simplicity at Fourvière. As a family, we remember those twelve brave hearts who placed their lives in Your hands, and we ask that You awaken in us the same courage and faith.

Pour out Your Holy Spirit upon our home. Help us to walk gently in the way of Mary— with tenderness, with trust, and with hearts open to Your call. May our words and actions reflect her quiet strength and joyful yes.

Bless our commitments for the year ahead. Strengthen us to love one another, to serve with humility, and to share hope in the ordinary moments of daily life.

May we be Marist not just in name, but in how we live, so that others may see Your love shining through us. We pray this in the name of Jesus, with Mary as our guide.

Amen.

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