An important first step in the further development of the Marist mission

In last May the very first group of East Timorese aspirants, Santiago Quintão, Marcos Pereira, Mariano Lobato , Andre Pinto and Floriano Marques (pictured L-R) began their Marist pre-novitiate formation in Baucau, Timor-Leste. They have had to wait over two months for the house that is being rented to house the formation community to be made ready for occupation.

In the spirit of the first Marist community at Lavalla, these young men have begun their formation journey with great enthusiasm, energy and resolve. Work has started on developing the plan for community living and other formation elements. A weekly community timetable and basic structure for the organisation of house responsibilities has already been determined together. Santiago, Marcos and Mariano are engaged in the Bachelor of Teaching program at the Catholic Teachers College. Andre teaches third grade at the local Catholic Primary School. Floriano is involved in various courses and volunteers as an assistant teacher at the Catholic Primary School.

Looking to the future, some of these young men will become the foundation stones of a new and unique expression of Marist brotherhood, building on the Marist Brothers who have gone before them, contributing to the further development of the Marist mission in Timor-Leste. At this moment, we are grateful for the support of the prayers of the Brothers, Lay Marists and friends across the whole Institute. Be assured we also are praying in solidarity with and for you, especially as we celebrate the Feast of Saint Marcellin Champagnat.

_______________
Br. Tony Clark fms