A United Asia Region with effective processes of collaboration and networking
A united Asia Region with effective processes of collaboration and networking is central to the thrust of the Marist Asia Conference (MAC). To achieve this objective, the Conference established the Asia Laity Commission which task is to reflect and propose action plans to further the development of the life and mission of the Marist laity in the Region.
On June 10-11, 2014, the 2nd meeting of the Asia Laity Commission was convened in Marikina City, Philippines. Br. Peter Rodney, Secretary of MAC, shared the background and thrust of the Conference and expressed his message of support to the initiatives of the Laity Commission. Sr. Sonia Punzalan, R.C. provided input on Asian Spirituality. The presence of both was appreciated by the members of the Laity Commission as they provided the context of the meeting’s agenda. The Commission also appreciated the hospitality and support of the Brothers’ community in Marikina for providing the members of the Commission an experience of a Marist home.
Action plans were delineated with focus on the task of the Commission in the next 2 years, until 2016. Among others, the following were given emphasis:
- Organization of joint formation experiences in the Continental, Provincial/Sector levels;
- Design simple programs of formation, considering the different paths in the development of the commitment of the lay Marists, and mindful of religious diversities;
- Propose for the creation of structures that will respond to the local needs of supporting Marist life of the Laity and Brothers;
- Strengthen a network of communication among the brothers and laity in the Region.
The two-day meeting was enriched by experiences of communion in prayer, assurance of support, sharing of resources, nurturing of the brothers-lay relationship, and sharing of a common vision: Empowered Marist laity for a greater vitality of the Marist charism in Asia.
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Photo: (L-R) Agnes Reyes (East Asia), Jude Preman (South Asia) Br. Pat Corpus (East Asia) Br. Roshan Silva (South Asia) Br. Peter Rodney (MAC Secretary), Br. Ismael Valls (Marist District of Asia) and Elma Rafil (East Asia)