_{3rd Marist International Mission Assembly}

Dear Marists of Champagnat:

The 22nd General Chapter extended an invitation to us to “Journey together as a Global Family.” Though some time has passed since this invitation was first proclaimed, the sentiment remains strong among Marists in our Institute, inspiring deep reflection on the concept of a global, charismatic family without boundaries.

In alignment with the spirit of the 22nd General Chapter and the commemoration of the 200th anniversary of the Hermitage, the Preparatory Commission for the 3rd Marist International Mission Assembly (MIMA III) wholeheartedly invites Marists of Champagnat from across the world to join us on the path towards the third Mission Assembly, themed “We are a Global Family.” As outlined in the Marist Brothers Constitutions, Article 119.3, the International Assembly serves as a platform to exchange experiences, grasp the current social landscape, discern priorities, and propose future orientations and strategies for our Marist mission worldwide.

MIMA III is scheduled to take place from April 8-14, 2024, in El Escorial, Madrid, Spain. Each Administrative Unit will nominate representatives, including both Brothers and lay Marists, who are engaged in the mission, education, and evangelization of children and young people, particularly those who are marginalized and in need.

However, the journey does not begin on the first day of the Assembly; it begins with each individual’s life as a Marist of Champagnat, interwoven with the broader community or workgroup to which they belong. Therefore, all are encouraged to participate in the preparatory phases (at the Local, Province/District levels) of this MIMA III pilgrimage. We extend an invitation “to look beyond” the present and envision the future of Marist mission through discernment, dialogue, and prayer.

To facilitate this process, materials will be distributed to aid each Marist of Champagnat in discerning and envisioning the future of Marist mission with courage, audacity, and hope. These materials are adaptable for use as each individual sees fit.

We strongly encourage everyone to remain attentive to local-level announcements as discussions commence. Our aim is to involve as many Marists as possible, including Brothers, lay adults, and young individuals within your schools, Fraternities, Marist Movements, and in all our missions across the globe. We invite you to reflect upon and share your life experiences as Marists in mission.

Every voice matters. Your thoughts and ideas will form the foundation for further discussions at the Provincial Level and, ultimately, inspire the work of the Spirit during the 3rd Marist International Mission Assembly.

We extend a heartfelt invitation to all Marists of Champagnat to actively engage in this journey and discover the richness of our Marist “Global Charismatic Family.”

With Warm Regards,

The Preparatory Commission.