Province of Central America
From August 30th to September 1st, 24 brothers and two Marist sisters under the age of 55 met at the Marist Formation Center in Guatemala. We represented almost a third of the Province and we wanted to meet as a family in order to encourage one another, get excited, fall in love again with our life, vocation and mission.
With the motto “APASIÓNATE!” ("BE PASSIONATE!") and the logo of a kite, we wanted to symbolize our desire to assume the tasks of our present stage and, with our feet on the ground and our eyes lifted up, look to what lies ahead, what we have to build with so many other brothers and laypeople.
On the first day, we had the opportunity to reflect on the moment: what we are living on a physical, psychological, cognitive level. Also what we must pay attention to and take care of.
On the second day we were able to share our personal experiences that define and confirm us at this stage. Reflecting on the symbol of the kite, we built one, or at least we tried. We also shared our spiritual experiences.
On the third and last day we focused on dialogue, from the point of view of fraternity and freedom, on aspects that concern us and the lived experience of the province. Without a doubt we have much to contribute, we are already doing it, and we must continue to do it with responsibility and courage.
We returned to our communities and missions with much enthusiasm and energy. We are aware that it is Jesus who holds our kite-lines tightly and guides our flight. It is he who invites us to be passionate every day about our fraternal life and our mission as brothers and sisters among children and young people as Marists of Champagnat. May Mary help us to be courageous and overcome our fears of “the heights" and to always go beyond.