Annual meeting of the Marist Family

From January 16th to 18th the General Councils of the four branches of the Marist Family (the Marist Fathers, SM; Sisters, SM; Missionary Sisters, SMSM  and Brothers, FMS) held our annual meeting at the SVD Ad Gentes Center for Formation and Spirituality in the town of Nemi, south of Rome.

Centering on the theme “Rejoicing in the richness of our international/multicultural reality…that the world might believe,” the gathering opened with each Superior General speaking about a significant event that happened in his or her Congregation during the past year.

This provided an opportunity for all of us to gain insights into the approach and direction being taken by the leaders in each Congregation.

Each presentation was followed by a period for reflection and discussion, enabling us to better understand our role as leaders in our Institutes at this grace-filled time when, under the dynamic leadership of Pope Francis, the Church is experiencing a profound renewal and transformation.

We discussed the particular challenges that each of our Institutes is facing in carrying out our mission in the way of Mary and in contributing to ongoing development of a Marian face of the Church. 

The gathering also featured a workshop facilitated by two SVD priests. They helped us reflect on the topic An Intercultural Congregation in a Multi-cultural World. This led to fruitful discussions on how each of our Institutes could initiate and implement steps to assist our members worldwide in deepening their awareness of this unfolding reality in our midst.

And last but not least, this much-anticipated Marist Family reunion afforded us a welcome opportunity to pray together, relax and enjoy one another’s company.   

Brother Michael De Waas, FMS