Book preserves legacy of Marist Brothers’ formation houses

A Brief History of Formation Houses in the Star of the Sea Province (1872–2024), by Br Brian Etherington, Br Julian Casey and Br Edward (Ted) Clisby, was launched last month. It traces the story of such houses in the province, which spans 11 countries.

These houses shaped and sent forth many brothers, all inspired by the dream of Marcellin Champagnat. But as vocations steadily declined – due to shifting cultural landscapes and other external forces – many of the houses have grown quiet.

Fewer brothers now enter formation and some of the once-vibrant spaces have been transformed into retreat centres, ecological hubs or have been sold. Still, their legacy lives on in the memories and stories of those who once walked their corridors.

Seeking to help preserve the legacy, the book is more than a historical record. It is a deeply personal exploration of Marist identity, mission and the quiet legacy of the brothers in the Pacific and parts of Asia.

Br Brian, who has worked as an archivist, said the idea for the book came from province leader Br Peter Carroll and the Patrimony Committee for the brothers.

“Br Peter asked the committee if someone might be willing to write something on the formation houses, and they approached me. I agreed to do it. It wasn’t really about inspiration – it was more a request, and I was happy to take it on.”

“ . . . Br Ted, who’s based in Aotearoa New Zealand, wrote chapter two – all the content relating to that country,” Br Brian said. “He also sent over a collection of photos, which I used to help put the chapter together.

“For Fiji, I drew heavily on Br Ted’s earlier book Far Distant Shores, which is an extensive history of the New Zealand Province. I read it cover to cover and found it fascinating.”

Br Brian said that, for him, the new book “is a contribution to preserving our history”.

“At the very start, I explain what a juniorate actually is and why it existed – because to modern ears, it probably sounds quite strange. . . . I included a quote that shows why that was attractive to boys at the time. Today, it might seem odd, but back then, it made a lot of sense.”

FULL STORY

Where the Journey Began: New Book Honours the Formation Houses That Shaped Marist Brotherhood in the Province (Marist Star)