Logo of the Year of Marist Vocations
The Year of Marist Vocations is symbolized by a plant shoot in the gardener´s hand. New growths in plants are very delicate and therefore need utmost care. The same is true with our vocation, our Marist life. It must be tended attentively. At the same time, we must sow the seeds if we want the garden to flourish, following what Champagnat did during the difficult period when vocation was scarce.
The stalk shaped like an M – for Marist and for Mary – is colored green to signify life. The two leaves represent Marist Brothers and Marist Laity.
The leaves are heart-shaped, proclaiming our love for the charism. However, they are not in the usual upright position, indicating the inquietude of the comfort zone and the restlessness in the face of emerging needs.
The vibrant colors blue and orange speak to us of the rich variety of ways in which we respond to the call, according to our respective gifts. Blue characterizes fidelity to our commitment. Orange, on the other hand, suggests ardor and reflects our passion for Marist life.
The hand and the lump of soil that supports the shoot paints a picture of caring, whether it is for the seedling, or for the sprout. This is a reminder of our responsibility to nurture Marist life – our own, that of our companions on the journey and of those who are just beginning. We need a new culture of caring for life, building on what we have learned these past few years which were indeed challenging for all humanity.