60 MARIST UNIVERSITY PROFESSORS FROM PORTO ALEGRE BRAZIL VISIT THE GENERAL HOUSE

The Catholic Pontifical University of Rio Grande do Sul (PUCRS) in Porto Alegre, Brazil, is characterized by its orientation to higher education, its Christian identity and membership in the Marist world. With that in mind the school has sponsored a pilgrimage to Rome July 18th to the 24th, under the direction of Brother Joaquim Clotet, Vice Rector of the University. In terms of culture, Rome and Florence have offered extremely interesting attractions. In terms of the Catholic faith, the visit to St. Peter?s Basilica and an audience with Pope John Paul II in the Paul VI Hall have been two outstanding experiences underlining the Pontifical identity that is a hallmark of PUCRS. The visit to the General House on July 22nd included a full program of events, highlighted by two conferences: ?The Marist mission today,? given by Brother Pedro Herreros of the General Council (You can find specific information about the Mission Commission on the Marist web page, www.champagnat.org); and ?The educator in a Marist university,? given by Brother Lluís Serra, Director of Communications for the Institute.

A tour of the General House, a fraternal meal, and Eucharist in the main chapel completed the schedule for the day. Participants in the program displayed great interest and identification with our Marist values.

A group of brothers named by the Provincials of Europe met in Xaudaró, Madrid on Sunday, July 18th to plan for implementing the action program approved in Aravaca, Madrid last November, at the conclusion of the General Council?s visit to the region of Europe: ?The objective of this task force will be to help deepen and better understand the identity of the brother and layperson as Marists.?