Society of Mary

Marist Fathers New Zealand: Life and spirit

Philippines

40 young people attend Marist vocations jamboree

Around 40 young people gathered recently in the Philippines for the 2017 Marist Vocation Jamboree.

The theme of this year’s Jamboree was “Share the gentle presence of God to the world, as Mary did.”

Held in Matti District Catholic Centre, Brgy. Matti, Digos City, the event was hosted by the Marist Fathers’ Community in Matti, and facilitated by the vocations directors of the Marist Fathers, Marist Sisters, and Marist Missionary Sisters.

The event introduced the Marist vocation to the young people and was a combination of lectures, reflection and sharing, games, and prayer.

Several participants expressed their delight in the experience and look to furthering their contact with the Marists.

Source: Marist Asia

Gavin Foster joins Australian province

Gavin-Foster
Fr Gavin Foster SM

Former New Zealand Marist, Gavin Foster, has elected to join the Australian province of the Marist Fathers.

Ordained in New Zealand, Gavin worked in his native country for a number of years before volunteering to serve the Asian mission in the Philippines.

After 20 years in Asia working as a formator, CPE supervisor, psychologist at the diocesan seminary and a chaplain for mental patients at Davo’s Psychiatric Hospital, Gavin was offered a years sabbatical study in Sydney.

Gavin’s transfer from the District of Asia took effect on 24 September.

He is continuing his ministry as full-time chaplain at St Joseph’s College, Hunters Hill.

Sources:

Marist School Atlanta makes substantial donation to Typhoon Haiyan appeal

Fr Joel Konzen and Mr Michael Trujillo
Fr Joel Konzen and Mr Michael Trujillo

On Monday 25 November, Augusto Michael Trujillo, Catholic Relief Service’s southeast region relationship manager, presented Marist School Atlanta principal, Fr Joel Konzen with a Certificate of Appreciation that reads: “Catholic Relief Services would like to thank Marist School for your support to help our brothers and sisters affected by Typhoon Haiyan.”

The whole school community at Marist School Atlanta donated more than US$5,000 to Catholic Relief Services for efforts in the Philippines.

Marist International Novitiate moves back to the Philippines

The superior general has announced that the 2013 Marist international novitiate will be located in Davao, Philippines and that Kevin Conroy will be the Novice Master.

Kevin is currently Rector and Superior of the Marist Seminary in Auckland and will leave this position in September in order to prepare for his new ministry. [Read more…] about Marist International Novitiate moves back to the Philippines