Consecrated life as marists

The annual meeting of the four Marist General Councils (Marist Sisters, SM; Marist Missionary Sisters, SMSM; Marist Fathers, SM; and Marist Brothers, FMS) took place in our house of Manziana from January 22 to 24. The central theme this year was: Consecrated Life as Marists – How to show the Marian Face of the Church? The facilitator was Sister Teri O’Brien SM.  She helped us discuss the theme in a very creative and dynamic way, seeking inspiration and light in the sources of the four Marist congregations. The 20 participants were very motivated and engaged in the discussion, both in the small groups and the plenary sessions.

The four Superiors General also had the opportunity to speak about important topics that are presently concentrating the Congregations’ attention and energy. The Organizing Commission within each of the Councils led the prayer moments and Eucharistic celebrations, which contributed to create an atmosphere of discernment and attentive listening to God’s call for each of our groups, and our common charism in the Church today.

In this meeting we said farewell to the Council of the Marist Sisters, who will celebrate their General Chapter next April. After several years working together, we realized how much we have grown regarding the family spirit, trust and transparency between us, the solidarity we share regarding the challenges and hopes of each Institute, and our communion rooted in the common soil of our Marian charism and spirituality.

At the end, we had a fraternal birthday celebration for Sister Miriam SM and Brother Emili, our Superior General.

____________
Brother Antonio Ramalho, General Councilor