Regional Marist assembly reflects on call and mission

The event was a significant milestone in strengthening collaboration, connection and shared mission across the province.

The Champagnat Family Assembly in Nadi from May 17-20 brought together 35 Marists, representing every country of the province, including Aotearoa New Zealand, Australia, Cambodia, Fiji, Samoa, Kiribati, New Caledonia, Solomon Islands, Timor-Leste, Papua New Guinea and Vanuatu. Also in attendance were the provincial, Br Darren Burge, and general councillor, Br Rajakumar Soosai Manickam, who joined the group on May 18.

On the final day of the gathering, dedicated listeners shared the key themes and insights that had emerged throughout the assembly conversations. A strong message echoed throughout the reflections – that participants came to Fiji not simply for a conference, but to listen deeply, reconnect as family and discern together where God is calling the Marist mission into the future.

A major theme throughout the discussions was the future of the mission in places where the number of brothers is declining. Participants acknowledged the realities facing many communities, including limited resources, geographical distance, cultural diversity, language barriers and the challenges of maintaining connection across the Pacific. Alongside these concerns, though, was a strong sense of hope.

The listeners highlighted the growing role of lay Marists in sustaining and leading the mission into the future. There was widespread agreement on the need for stronger formation and leadership development, particularly at the local level, so communities can respond to their own realities while remaining connected to the wider Marist family. The sharing of resources, formation programmes and leadership opportunities across countries was repeatedly identified as essential.

Technology and communication also emerged as important priorities. Listeners spoke about the need to remain connected beyond the assembly through regular meetings, shared initiatives, online communication and future gatherings. They added that several groups proposed more structured opportunities for collaboration every few years to continue strengthening relationships across the province.

FULL STORY

Star of the Sea Champagnat Marists, Lay and Brothers, Gather in Fiji for Historic First Family Assembly – Day 1 (Marist Star)

One Marist Family: Champagnat Family Assembly Concludes with a Call to Connection, Courage, and Mission (Marist Star)