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The Marist Way

Following Mary's example as the first disciple of Jesus Christ — a community of Marist lay people and Marist religious in Australia.

Formation · 06 November 2026

Retreat - A Marist Reflection on living in the way of Mary

Join Marist Brother Bill O'Sullivan for A Marist Reflection on Living in the Way of Mary, a retreat that invites participants into the quiet, contemplative heart of the Marist tradition. Drawing on the spirituality that has shaped generations of Marists, Brother Bill explores what it means to walk through life as Mary did: attentive to the presence of God in ordinary moments, ready to say 'yes' without fully knowing where that yes will lead, and content to live 'hidden and unknown' in a world that prizes recognition. Through prayer, reflection, story, and shared silence, the retreat opens up Mary not as a distant figure of devotion but as a living model for discipleship, one who pondered all things in her heart and trusted God's will even when the way ahead was unclear.

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Top rated this month

October 2026
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Song - Holy Spirit

Music — There's nothing worth more. That could ever come close. No thing can compare. You're our living hope. Your presence, Lord

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Mindful Colouring - Pentecost

Prayer — Pray this prayer with your family, community, school or friends. Download the prayer. PRINT the prayer for each person. Spend 15 minutes praying through mindfulness. In Drawing, Colouring, Writing, Sharing, Discussion, and Song. Tell your family. Set a time. Pray mindfully.

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Summary - Living with paradoxes of today - From Brother Tony Leons presentation

Spirituality — Living with the paradoxes of today demands a fundamental shift in perspective, as emphasized by Brother Tony Leon in his presentation. He delineates two mindsets prevalent in contemporary society: the fixed mindset, characterized by a presumption of finality, and the growth mindset, which embraces possibility and change. Drawing from Carol Dweck's research, Leon illustrates how a growth mindset fosters resilience and success, contrasting with the limitations of a fixed mindset. James Hynes further underscores the transformative power of language, highlighting its ability to shape our reality. Through the lens of James P. Carse's exploration of finite and infinite games, Leon invites reflection on divergent approaches to life, emphasizing the need to transition from competition to collaboration. He illustrates this concept through the evolution of technology and the playful improvisation of everyday life. The recognition of paradoxes inherent in both finite and infinite perspectives underscores the complexity of human relationships and invites deeper understanding. Reflecting on the paradoxes within the Gospels, such as the dual nature of Christ and the enigma of peace, prompts contemplation of the mysteries of faith. Sr Mercedes Navarro Puerto's poignant depiction of the 'magic hour' of Marist Life elucidates the transformative power of rebirth amidst uncertainty. Václav Havel's insight into hope, Father Tim Radcliffe's recognition of humanity's thirst for transcendence, and Anthony Doerr's metaphorical exploration of light collectively prompt introspection on the profound questions that define the human experience. As we navigate the intricate interplay between light and darkness, hope and uncertainty, we are reminded that embracing paradoxes offers pathways to deeper understanding and illumination amidst the complexities of life.

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Mary Support of the Church at its birth

Spirituality — By Marist Father Justin Taylor sm. On July 23, 1816, at the shrine of Our Lady of Fourvière, Lyons, twelve priests and seminarians pledged themselves to found a congregation bearing the name of Mary. Those who worked for the next twenty years to carry out this promise were convinced that they were responding to a wish of the Mother of Mercy, which found expression for them in the following words: “I supported the Church at its birth; 1 shall do so again at the end of time'' (Constitutions of the Society of Mary, n. 2).

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Reflection on Jesus in the Desert

Gospel — Father Jim gives an insightful reflection on the Gospel reading of Jesus in the desert and the temptation. He starts by linking to the super hero character development then leads quickly into the story of Jesus in the desert. The temptation by the devil tries to make Jesus into something he is not. Do we know scripture to rebuke our false thinking? Do we stay no to these temptations?

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Fourvière Reflection - July 2024 Sydney - Margaret Woods

Formation — Margaret Woods delivered a heartfelt reflection at the Fourvière celebration in Sydney, highlighting the profound connection between joy and Marist spirituality, rooted in the Marian tradition. She recounted her personal experiences of visiting Fourvière, emphasizing the historical significance and the deep-seated joy felt by the early Marist founders in 1816, who were inspired by their devotion to Mary to establish a society embodying her spirit. Margaret vividly described the joy experienced during significant life events and spiritual moments, using these instances to illustrate the essence of the Marist mission—living a life of prayer, presence, and compassion in the modern world. Her narrative intertwines personal anecdotes with historical insights, urging the community to embrace a mystic heart and continue the legacy of the Marists through active engagement in social justice and communal witness.

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Francis and the Sultan - Studies of Religion - Christian Significant Person

Studies of Religion — The video 'Francis and the Sultan' explores the historical encounter between St. Francis of Assisi and Sultan al-Kamil of Egypt during the time of the Crusades. It highlights themes of dialogue, mutual respect, and understanding across religious and cultural divides.The story begins with the backdrop of the Crusades, specifically the conflict over Jerusalem, a holy site for both Christians and Muslims. Despite the ongoing violence, the video focuses on the efforts of Francis, who, disillusioned by the crusades' violence, seeks a path of peace and brotherhood. He travels to the Muslim camp, not as a crusader but as a peacemaker, aiming to understand and engage with the Muslim world through dialogue rather than confrontation.

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Song - Gentle Woman

Music — Gentle woman, quiet light, morning star, so strong and bright, gentle Mother, peaceful dove, teach us wisdom; teach us love.

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Most views this month

October 2026
1

The Land Owns Us

Aboriginal Spirituality — Bob Randall, an Aboriginal Yankunytjatjara elder and traditional owner of Uluru (Ayer's Rock) in Australia, explains how the connectedness of every living thing to every other living thing is not just an idea but a way of living. This way includes all beings as part of a vast family and calls us to be responsible for this family

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Saint Francis and the Sultan seeking peace

Story — Saint Francis in the 1219 traveled to Egypt to engage with the Islamic sultan Al Kamil during the crusades. Francis went to seek peace. After Francis had approached the Christian generals, they rejected him. Francis stayed in the camp with Sultan in dialogue. There was a mutual understanding and appreciation of each other.

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Taize - Veni Sancte Spiritus - virtual choir

Music — 'Veni Sancte Spiritus,' also known as the 'Golden Sequence,' is a sequence prescribed in the Roman Liturgy for the Masses of Pentecost. It's a beautiful, ancient hymn calling on the Holy Spirit. The text is attributed to either Pope Innocent III or Stephen Langton, Archbishop of Canterbury, in the early 13th century. Here are the traditional Latin lyrics along with an English translation.

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Enriching Many – Jeanne-Marie Chavoin - Part 6 - Harvest

Books — Perhaps we are too apt to think of the Foundress of a religious congregation in the Church as a mighty soul breathing on the earth and finding new branches of her movement, all shining, complete and wanting for nothing, in the place where she has breathed. This is, to some extent, the inner truth. For it is the spirit that quickeneth, the bricks and mortar of themselves being profitless. But in the field of practicali­ties, the foundation of each house is a matter of hard work, of courage to face a host of difficulties, patience to attend to a swarming mass of detail. We find all this in Mother St. Joseph's search for a house towards the close of 1835. Â¥any possibilities were envisaged and ex­plored. But to no avail. Thus hopes that seemed bright and promising in the dioceses of Grenoble, Gap, Belley and Lyons came to nothing. Finally, negotiations were happily concluded and preparations begun for the opening of a convent at Meximieux, about eighteen miles outside Lyons.

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Mindful Prayer - Session 2 - Resilience

Prayer — Prayer this prayer with your family, community, school or friends. Download the prayer. PRINT the prayer for each person. Spend 15 minutes praying through mindfulness. In Drawing, Colouring, Writing, Sharing, Discussion, and Song. Tell your family. Set a time. Pray mindfully.

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6

The One Thing All Great Teachers Do - Nick Fuhrman

Homeschooling — Nick Fuhrman's TED Talk 'The One Thing All Great Teachers Do' emphasizes the transformative impact of passionate teaching, exemplified by his childhood role model, Ranger Bill. Fuhrman highlights the importance of embracing mistakes as learning opportunities, recognizing individual student differences, and providing meaningful feedback. He advocates for an engaging, interactive teaching style that goes beyond just presenting information, using methods like animal interactions to enhance learning. Fuhrman's approach underlines the significance of teachers as mentors and role models, capable of instilling confidence and inspiring long-term growth in students.

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Baabayn - NAIDOC event - on July 10

Events — The Baabayn NAIDOC event will take place on July 10, with an important on-site meeting scheduled for Friday, July 4 at 11am at Whalan Reserve. This meeting offers a chance to connect with other organisations, volunteers, and cultural performers, and will cover key logistics such as parking, stall locations, and event layout. While volunteers unable to attend will be kept informed, it is essential that each group have a representative if possible. No vehicles are allowed on the sports fields, so stallholders must bring a trolley for equipment transport. Attendees are encouraged to bring refillable water bottles (water stations provided) and picnic blankets for seating, as camp chairs are restricted on sports ovals. Importantly, this is a Drug and Alcohol Free event. Final stall allocations and a run sheet will be sent closer to the date. Thanks to community support, the full event will go ahead as planned. For further questions, please contact Lawrie McCane, and sincere thanks are extended by Aunty Cassandra Ebsworth and the organising team.

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Movie - Saint Augustine

Movies — The 2010 film Saint Augustine is a historical drama that explores the life, inner struggles, and spiritual transformation of one of Christianity’s most influential thinkers—Saint Augustine of Hippo. Set in the backdrop of the late Roman Empire, the story is framed by the events of 410 AD, when the Visigoths are invading Rome. An aged Bishop Augustine reflects on his past, recounting his journey from a brilliant yet restless philosopher and political orator to a humble servant of God. The film provides both a dramatic portrayal and an introspective look into the personal, intellectual, and spiritual evolution of Augustine.

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New Testament words for obedience - PART 2

Spirituality — In both the Hebrew of the Old Testament and the Greek of the New Testament, the words used which we translate as obey, obedience and obedient, all have a close relationship with the various words we translate as hear and listen. One scholar summarizes the use of those Greek words in the New Testament:

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Brother Tony Clark

People — Tony Clark is a Marist Brother hailing from the River Inn of New South Wales. He has dedicated several years of his life to serving others, including his recent work in South Africa and a long tenure in Timor-Leste. Tony's extensive experience also includes significant contributions to the Marist Brothers in Melbourne and Perth....

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Saint David, Patron Saint of Wales

Art — Dewi Sant, or Saint David, Patron Saint of Wales, is an outstanding addition to Michael Galovic’s fascinating collection of Celtic Saints. In an era of violence and intolerance, Dewi maintained a deep commitment to the core Christian values of compassion and service towards the weak and the poor, thus embodying the mindfulness that is a fundamental aspect of Celtic spirituality. It is these aspects that Michael has captured so beautifully in his icon of the saint.

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Jesus Gives the Beatitudes - Chosen Scene

Spirituality — In this scene from the TV series 'The Chosen,' Matthew shares a revelation with a friend. He presents a metaphorical 'map' related to the Beatitudes, a set of blessings taught by Jesus. Matthew associates each Beatitude with a group of people who possess certain qualities. These qualities include being poor in spirit, mourning, meek, hungering for righteousness, showing mercy, having a pure heart, working towards peace, and enduring persecution for righteousness' sake. Matthew uses these groups as markers on his 'map' to help others find him. The scene reflects Matthew's understanding of the Beatitudes and how he sees them as a guide to identify like-minded individuals.

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Lazarus is Raised from the Dead - John 11:1-45

Movies — In this powerful scene from The Chosen, Jesus arrives in Bethany after Lazarus has already died. Martha, heartbroken and confused, expresses her sorrow and disappointment, telling Jesus that if He had been there, her brother would not have died. Despite her grief, she still trusts that God will grant whatever Jesus asks. Jesus reassures her that Lazarus will rise again, but He clarifies that He is not just speaking of the resurrection at the end of time—He is the resurrection and the life. He asks Martha if she believes this, and she affirms her faith in Him as the Christ, even without fully understanding.

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Mindful Colouring - Rising from the dead

Prayer — Pray this prayer with your family, community, school or friends. Download the prayer. PRINT the prayer for each person. Spend 15 minutes praying through mindfulness. In Drawing, Colouring, Writing, Sharing, Discussion, and Song. Tell your family. Set a time. Pray mindfully.

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Ground breaking - look at the impact - of screen time - on kids brains

Parents Corner — This explores a groundbreaking scientific study led by researchers in Ohio, particularly at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, examining how screen time impacts children’s brain development. The research follows hundreds of children from birth, using MRI scans to track brain changes over time. One example is a five-year-old named Rose, who participates in the study by undergoing brain imaging while watching movies to keep her still. These scans are compared with images taken when she was a newborn, helping scientists observe how exposure to screens and other environmental factors affect areas of the brain linked to reading, decision-making, and language development.

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Think Fast, Talk Smart - Communication Techniques

Leadership — Matt Abrahams' talk focuses on improving communication skills in spontaneous situations, offering a blend of strategies, activities, and insights to manage anxiety and enhance speaking abilities. He starts by highlighting the challenge of catching attention and maintaining engagement, proposing that effective communication in impromptu settings is achievable through practice.

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Leaders change the way we see things

Leadership — Why do we give? What happens if we change the question? Not about 'me'. Not 'Please help' but rather 'in the next 2 weeks, 'if you only give once a month, please think of me next time'. This has nothing to do with the taker, but rather the giver.

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Jesus forgives Mary Magdalene

Movies — This is a moving scene where Mary Magdalene encounters Jesus after she has run away and returned to a life of sin. She talks with Jesus. Mary Magdalene struggles to come to terms with what she has done. But Jesus loves her and embraces her. This shows us how God loves us so much that nothing can stop the love being poured out into us.

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Event - The Chosen @ St Patricks Church Hill

Events — No matter where you are on your journey with Christ, this TV Show is for you. The Chosen is a 7 episode television series about the life of Christ, as witnessed through the eyes of those he impacted. Starts Sunday October 30. Bring your family, friends, neighbours, and anyone who want to know more about Jesus...

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Even Healthy Couples Fight - the Difference Is How - Julie and John Gottman - TED Video

Relationships — Julie and John Gottman, founders of the Gottman Institute, have spent their careers studying relationships, discovering that how couples fight, rather than whether they fight, determines long-term success. Their research shows that maintaining a positive-to-negative interaction ratio and focusing on understanding rather than winning during conflicts can strengthen relationships. They identified key negative behaviors, like criticism and stonewalling, that harm relationships, but also found that most conflicts are perpetual and must be managed rather than resolved. By using tools like the 'dreams within conflict' conversation, couples can deepen their understanding of each other, leading to more resilient relationships and contributing to a more peaceful society.

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Mary Support of the Church at its birth

Spirituality — By Marist Father Justin Taylor sm. On July 23, 1816, at the shrine of Our Lady of Fourvière, Lyons, twelve priests and seminarians pledged themselves to found a congregation bearing the name of Mary. Those who worked for the next twenty years to carry out this promise were convinced that they were responding to a wish of the Mother of Mercy, which found expression for them in the following words: “I supported the Church at its birth; 1 shall do so again at the end of time'' (Constitutions of the Society of Mary, n. 2).

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The Chosen - Should you Forgive - How many times you should forgive?

Inspiration — In this scene from The Chosen on forgiveness, Peter wrestles with the challenge of forgiving someone who has repeatedly wronged him—specifically, Matthew, whose past actions as a tax collector caused immense harm to Peter and his family. In a late-night conversation with Jesus, Peter recounts Matthew’s betrayals, including his merciless collection of taxes, endangering Peter’s livelihood, and even preparing to turn Peter over to the Roman authorities. Peter questions how he could possibly forgive such egregious and unrepentant sins. Jesus reminds him that forgiveness is not limited to seven times but should be extended '77 times'—a call to boundless, limitless forgiveness. Despite acknowledging his new identity as Peter, the 'rock,' Peter admits he still feels like the flawed man he was before, doubting his ability to forgive. Jesus gently reminds him that relying solely on human understanding makes life harder and that forgiveness, though difficult, is a divine calling that brings ultimate peace.

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Summary - Living with paradoxes of today - From Brother Tony Leons presentation

Spirituality — Living with the paradoxes of today demands a fundamental shift in perspective, as emphasized by Brother Tony Leon in his presentation. He delineates two mindsets prevalent in contemporary society: the fixed mindset, characterized by a presumption of finality, and the growth mindset, which embraces possibility and change. Drawing from Carol Dweck's research, Leon illustrates how a growth mindset fosters resilience and success, contrasting with the limitations of a fixed mindset. James Hynes further underscores the transformative power of language, highlighting its ability to shape our reality. Through the lens of James P. Carse's exploration of finite and infinite games, Leon invites reflection on divergent approaches to life, emphasizing the need to transition from competition to collaboration. He illustrates this concept through the evolution of technology and the playful improvisation of everyday life. The recognition of paradoxes inherent in both finite and infinite perspectives underscores the complexity of human relationships and invites deeper understanding. Reflecting on the paradoxes within the Gospels, such as the dual nature of Christ and the enigma of peace, prompts contemplation of the mysteries of faith. Sr Mercedes Navarro Puerto's poignant depiction of the 'magic hour' of Marist Life elucidates the transformative power of rebirth amidst uncertainty. Václav Havel's insight into hope, Father Tim Radcliffe's recognition of humanity's thirst for transcendence, and Anthony Doerr's metaphorical exploration of light collectively prompt introspection on the profound questions that define the human experience. As we navigate the intricate interplay between light and darkness, hope and uncertainty, we are reminded that embracing paradoxes offers pathways to deeper understanding and illumination amidst the complexities of life.

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CS Lewis - What are we to make of Jesus Christ?

Teaching — This is a question which has in a sense a frantically common sign. For the real question is not are we to make of Christ, but what is he to make of us. The picture of a fly sitting deciding what it is going to make of an elephant has common elements about it.

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Balay Pasilungan celebrates 32 years

Social Justice — A shelter for street boys located in the heart of Bankerohan, Davao City, Philippines. The center is administered by the Society of Mary-Marist Fathers & Brothers.

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Daring Classrooms - Brene Brown

Studies of Religion — Brown emphasizes that courage involves showing up and being seen, even when the outcome is uncertain. Drawing from her extensive research, she identifies four key skill sets for building courage: vulnerability, clarity of values, trust, and resilience. She highlights the importance of resilience in getting back up after experiencing setbacks and failures, emphasizing that courage often involves falling down but having the strength to rise again.

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Learning to Fail - Unpacking Misconceptions - of Growth Mindset - Luna Leverett - TED

Teaching — In her TED presentation, 'You think you have a growth mindset, but do you?', Luna Leverett explores the common misconceptions about growth mindset and its practical application in everyday life. Leverett begins by defining what a true growth mindset entails, distinguishing it from the mere positive thinking that many mistake it for. She emphasizes that a growth mindset is not just about expecting growth and success but also embracing challenges, failures, and the continuous process of learning that leads to real change.

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Book - Falling Upward

Books — We grow more spiritually by doing it wrong than by doing it right. In Falling Upward, Fr Richard Rohr offers a new understanding of one of life's most profound mysteries: how our failing can be the foundation for our ongoing spiritual growth. Drawing on the wisdom from time-honoured myths, heroic poems, great thinkers and sacred religious texts, the author explores the two halves of life to show that those who have fallen, failed, or 'gone down' are the only ones who understand 'up'. The heartbreaks, disappointments and loves of the first half of life are actually stepping stones to the spiritual joys that the second half has in store for us.

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What is your dream for Marist Laity?

Leadership — At a recent meeting, I was asked the question, “What is your dream for Marist laity?” Initially, I hesitated because I was not entirely sure what the question meant. Often in the Gospels, when Jesus is asked a question, he responds with another question. So I replied, “What is the dream of Marist Laity in 2023?” and also, “What is the dream of Marist Laity in 2030?” In our discussion, we reflected on a recent Marist Laity Australia committee meeting at Hunters Hill. There was a wide range of responses, as there is a rich diversity among lay people — one size does not fit all. We spoke about the struggles lay people face in ministry, such as feeding the homeless at St Patrick’s Church Hill and young people participating in immersions to the Philippines. Yet when the question becomes, “Would you like to be a Lay Marist?” many hesitate. In Australia, there can be a reluctance to make long-term commitments. I found myself asking, “How do we create a pathway that inspires, calls, and forms lay people to take the step of becoming Lay Marists?”

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200 Years of Catholic Schools amongst the persecuted

Blog — On Monday May 24, we will celebrate 200 years of Catholic schools in Australia. Most schools will celebrate with a mass. Yet, in this moment, do we remember the first 40 years of British settlement (From 1788 to 1820), where the Catholic church, many other churches, religions and Aboriginal customs were outlawed. Thus, many religions, and many churches began in Australia like the early Christian church, with oppression. Where the government of the day sought to stop their practise. With many lay people hidden in homes continuing religious traditions. Do we celebrate with the 200 years anniversary the many people who risked their lives for their religious faiths and traditions? This causes us to think, where in the world today are religious groups oppressed? As Catholics and people of religion, are we not called to identify and help the oppressed groups?

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Recent conversations

Spirituality on Blog - The sacred in ordinary

This reflection is such a gentle and needed reminder that the kitchen table, the 1am wake-up, and the patient presence through a child's frustration are not interruptions to our spiritual life but are the very fabric of it. The idea that Jean-Claude Colin called his followers to be present "in the manner of Mary", quietly, humbly, without seeking the spotlight, fits the hidden daily work of family life so perfectly. What is one ordinary moment in your daily routine that, after reading this, y

A. J. — Marist Laity, Australia · 23/5/2026
People on A Mothers Day Reflection

This reflection beautifully captures how Mary's quiet presence at the foot of the cross is an invitation for all of us, not just mothers, to stand alongside others in their suffering with compassion and patience. The examples of Moira Kelly and the volunteers in the Philippines remind us that this "mothering" presence can take so many courageous forms in our world. Who in your life has been a "mother" to you in this sense, someone who showed up and accompanied you through a diffic

A. J. — Marist Laity, Australia · 23/5/2026
Events on Marist Fourviere Celebration 2026

What a wonderful way to celebrate the 210th anniversary of the Marist Pledge at Fourvière with Mass, morning tea, a ukulele group, and a youth concert sounds like a truly joyful community gathering! The Fourvière Pledge reminds us that the Marist charism was born in a moment of humble and prayerful surrender to Mary's guidance. Are you planning to come along on 26 July, and is there someone in your family, parish, or community you could personally invite to join you?

A. J. — Marist Laity, Australia · 23/5/2026
Blog on Come, Holy Spirit - The God Who Shows Up - When We Are Scared

The image of whispering "Come, Holy Spirit" in a moment of trembling vulnerability, and then feeling that warmth and presence, is something that resonates deeply. It is so true that God so often shows up not in our strength, but precisely in the places where we feel most out of our depth. Have you ever had a moment, big or small, where you felt the Holy Spirit show up unexpectedly, and what did that feel like for you?

A. J. — Marist Laity, Australia · 23/5/2026

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