Visualizing ways of growth in the development of regional leadership
The Asia Regional Meeting of Leaders of Lay Animation held in Bangkok from 31st January to the 5th February provided a unique opportunity for participants, Lay Marists and Brothers, to reflect on the Chapter call to livea new spirit of communion together. Sixteen participants from Cambodia, China, Sri Lanka and the Philippines were invited to explore and reflect upon ways they can continue to visualize and animate the growth of a deeper shared Marist life in Asia. As Marist Asia consists of a rich diversity of countries and cultural backgrounds participants recognised the importance of working closely together to learn from and support each other. Although there were many opportunities to reflect on our experience and the challenges faced in moving forward together, the gathering was marked with a strong feeling of fraternity and joy. Joy was the overwhelming feeling of the gathering that united, empowered and energised our spirits to make the Chapter call a reality in Asia.
The following statement is a reflection capturing the heart of the experience for participants during their days together:
There is always a mystery that connects one another and we know that every encounter leads people into new ways. Our gathering started with a feeling that something good might happen. We listened and acted on the inspiration to be open to wherever the Spirit would lead us. We responded to the challenge: ‘Let’s jump!’
Life is so much more
Than what your eyes are seeing
You will find your way
If you keep believing
As Marist searchers, together we are trying to find this fire inside us that brings us as one, a fire that we call our Marist vocation. Challenges, questions, inspirations and passions are part of our journey. Something is growing that keeps us moving…
To be human and to have the hearts of Mary and Champagnat has been the strongest invitation for us to live out and shine forth.
Many challenges and difficulties present themselves along the way but we are hope filled. Asian Marists have dreams and optimism that new realities are going to happen: a deepened appreciation of our Marist vocation and an urgent response to do our mission in Asia. Let’s go in haste!