Nurturing growth of Marist life in East Asia Province

Last January 25–27, eighty-nine (89) new mission partners of Notre Dame of Marbel University, in Philippines, gathered at the Bro. Renato Cruz Convention Hall for the initial Marist Lay Formation Program. The said program was facilitated by Elma B. Rafil and Andres O. Magallanes.

Individual and group activities, reflections, and sharing paved the way to a deeper understanding of the life of the Founder, St. Marcellin Champagnat, and his gifts to the Church.  Other formation themes include understanding of the Marist charism and the living out of the Marist culture.

Appreciating one’s gifts and coming up with each group’s mission statement were some of the highlights of the event. One of the groups stated that they aim to live life in the way of Marcellin, while another expressed that their goal is to become pilgrims of hope through Marist education and passion for service.

The participants enjoyed the group dynamics and sharing and listening to each other’s personal concerns.

From this initial formation, a continuing program is being prepared that will allow the nurturing of the growth of Marist life.