The Ongoing Formation Course “Looking Beyond” comes to an end
On July 22, the ongoing formation course “Looking Beyond” ended in Manziana. It was aimed at Brothers who are finishing a stage of their life in certain apostolates (scholastic, academic or other) and are entering the stage of retirement; and also, for those who are looking to the future seeking to be present and be Marists in new mission fields, according to their possibilities and age. Eighteen Brothers have participated, since June 11, accompanied by the Ongoing Formation Team of the Institute, formed by Brothers Xavi Barceló, Michael Sexton and Ataíde José de Lima.
Brother Hector Dessavre, on behalf of the participants, shares some notes on the conclusion of the course.
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“The train has arrived at a station”. After 6 weeks of traveling together through our personal stories, discovering the beauty of God’s work in the life of each one of us, and sharing the joy of feeling loved and sent by Him; 18 brothers from the 5 continents of the planet, we have concluded this adventure and now new and unexpected Marist surprises await us.
Accompanied by Brothers Michael, Xavi and Ataide, we entered into the contemplation of our persons who, chronologically, are approaching the time of the official retreat, but, in our spirit, we experienced the renewed and meaningful impulse of the Marist call and consecration that indicate to us new and important ways of carrying out the work for the Kingdom in the Marist style.
We look beyond and renew our mission as Marist Brothers, with a presence among youth, rich in wisdom, experience and grace. Our being Marist Brothers gains depth and impetus from within; our being, beyond the quantity of our doing, is the lamp set on high that illuminates and helps others to walk their own path.
Encouraged by the profound experience of the mercy that God has had with each one of us, we want to set out, to go to “our own stations”, and to proclaim how good the Lord has been and how good he is, always.