Do Not Be Afraid To Say “Yes”

Sophia Bair

“Just like Mary, do not be afraid to say, ‘yes.’ Have courage because you never know what doors God may open for you,” advises 23-year-old Sophia Bair.

Sophia said “yes” to participating in a year-long service project through the Marianist Partners in Urban Leadership, Service and Education or PULSE program, which has inspired her to pursue pediatric medicine. “I was drawn to participate in the PULSE program because I was introduced to the Marianist Charism during my time at University of Dayton (UD). I have been inspired by the mission ever since. I believe our faith requires us to take action,” she said.

PULSE is a Marianist-sponsored post-graduate initiative that matches volunteers with non-profits for a one or two-year commitment. “I wasn’t apprehensive to commit to a whole year of service, but my parents certainly were. They were concerned I would lose interest in returning to school as I planned to continue to medical school after my year of service, but in reality, this year helped solidify my desire even more,” Bair stated.

Sophia and two other volunteers doing music therapy for guests

The pre-medicine UD graduate from Indianapolis just completed her “gap year” by volunteering at the St. Vincent de Paul Gateway Shelter for Women and Families. She reported that the most challenging part of her volunteer work was also the most rewarding, “It is difficult to work in a homeless shelter and meet people oftentimes on the worst days of their lives. But, I had the opportunity to meet so many incredible people, and it was a privilege to be with them and hear their stories.”

Bair is heading to Michigan State in the fall to begin medical school. “Because of my PULSE experience, I want to be a pediatrician who serves homeless children,” she said. Adding, “This year of service has been one of the best experiences of my life. I am eternally grateful to this program and the Marianist family for their constant support. “

Next month,  three other young adults will begin their journey with the PULSE program for the 2024-2025 year. If you or someone you know is interested in participating, please click here for more information.

In The News

First Vows Celebration for Guillermo “Memo” Peña Contreras

Bro. Guillermo “Memo” Peña Contreras professed First Vows in the Society of Mary (Marianists) on June 8, 2024, at Capilla de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe (Chapel of Our Lady of Guadalupe) in Querétaro, Mexico. Director of Novices Bro. Dennis Bautista and Assistant Director of Novices Fr. Tim Eden presented Bro. Memo as a suitable candidate for the profession of vows after a period of formation and discernment. His vows were received by Provincial Fr. Oscar Vasquez, who was the principal celebrant, with Assistant for the Office of Religious Life Fr. Tim Kenney concelebrating.

Born in Corregidora, Querétaro, Mexico, he excelled in school and received a law degree from Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro in 2013. While practicing law, one day, he was invited to join prayer in a chapel at a Marianist community that he’d walked by a thousand times before on the way to his grandmother’s house. During Holy Week of 2019, he decided to join those Marianist Brothers.

“The Marianists are always very close to people, especially those in need, the poor, and the sick from schools, communities, and parishes. Marianists are always willing to help, to listen, or to give some of their time to hear others. Working as a brother is not just working like any other job. Working as a brother is showing that all that we do is for God and our blessed Mother,” said Memo.

Memo will begin his service at the Querétaro Marianist Community.

Click here to read more. Click here to view photos from the ceremony and celebration.

Service Awards

Sr. Grace Walle, FMI, was recently honored by the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative for more than 20 years of service on the Anti-Death Penalty and Restorative Justice Issue Team.  She has also served on the MSJC Steering Committee for 14 years.  Bob Stoughton, one of the first Marianist volunteers, was also honored for more than 20 years on the issue team, many as chair.  Lay and religious Marianists from the Dayton, OH, area attended the awards event along with leaders from Death Penalty Action and local members of Ohians to Stop Executions.

 

Serra Immortal Awarded to Provincial Council Member

Congratulations to Fr. Tim Kenney, Assistant for Religious Life of the Marianist Province of the U.S. He was one of three alumni from Junipero Serra High School in Gardena, CA, honored at an awards luncheon as a Serra Immortal. The school describes a Cavalier Serra Immortal as an alumni, coach, administrator, or dedicated supporter who, after leaving the school, excelled in their chosen field and promoted the school’s advancement. It is someone who inspires both current and future Cavaliers to dream of achieving the same distinction.

“Fr. Kenney is an example of an alumnus who has made exceptional accomplishments in the education field. Through the years, Fr. Tim has given exceptional service in local, state, national, and world affairs, which has made a positive impact on society,” said Serra Alumni Association President Brian Cooper.

Some of Fr. Tim’s family and friends who attended the ceremony included province employee Kathy Cooper, Marianist Brother Fr. Ted Ley, his brother Kevin Kenney, sister Theresa Kenney Martinez, Lay Marianists Marty and Doloris Procaccio, Marianist pilgrimage participants Terry O’Neill and Diane Lawrence, as well as Tom and Ellen Celaya and fellow ’73 graduate Michael Lievans.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Let’s Taco ‘Bout  It

Affiliates of the Ahava and L’Esperance Lay Marianist Communities (MLCs) in Dayton, OH, gathered to reflect on prayer and God’s presence. Members Marianne Cipolla-McCulloch and Caitlin Cipolla-McCulloch hosted the event at their Miamisburg home.

A taco bar was enjoyed by all as conversation flowed, centering on the North American Center for Marianist Studies (NACMS) podcast featuring Fr. Quentin Hakenwerth. A key idea emphasized in the discussion was Fr. Quentin’s challenge to observe the importance of prayer and to consider ways their vocation as Marianists can help them heed the presence of God in their lives.

Caitlin, who was recently named the NACMS Program Administrator, described it as a “fruitful meeting that brought together two MLCs at different ages and stages of life.” Click here to listen to the podcast and, perhaps, create your own prayer challenge.

A Marianist Moment

Marianist Women’s Summit and FMI (USA) 75th Anniversary

The Marianist Sisters invite you to a “Marianist Women’s Summit” and the celebration of the 75th anniversary of its USA Foundation from Oct. 25-26 in San Antonio. The summit will provide an opportunity for lay and vowed women in the Marianist Family to visit, pray, and converse about Mary’s Magnificat call in our lives.

The event will take place at the Marianist Sisters’ Our Lady of the Pillar Community on Friday and at St. Mary’s University School of Law on Saturday. The guest speaker will be Dr. Neomi De Anda, a theologian and Lay Marianist who serves as the Executive Director of the International Marian Research Institute and is an Associate Professor in Religious Studies at University of Dayton.

All attendees must register. The final registration date is Oct.1, 2024. Refunds for cancellations will be issued up to Oct. 10, 2024. If you would like to register online and pay by credit card, please visit tinyurl.com/marianistwomenssummit or use the QR code.

From the Archives

Celebrating 175 Years of Marianists in America

With Mary as their model, the Marianists arrived in the U.S. in 1849, in Cincinnati, Ohio, to begin building communities of faith. That makes this year – the 175th anniversary – a milestone to celebrate! See the images below for background on the first U.S. Provincial and the start of what is now University of Dayton. If you’d like to read more on Fr. Meyer and the joys and struggles of founding the Society of Mary in the United States, the North American Center for Marianist Studies has a book available. Click here for more information.

If you’d like to see images from the archives, visit and “like” this Facebook page.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

2015
Date Unknown

Fr. Joseph Donald Cahill, 95, died on June 18, 2024, in San Antonio, TX, with 75 years of religious profession. He was set to celebrate his jubilee this year. You can read his bio here.

His obituary is forthcoming and will be posted here as soon as possible.

Click here to see more pictures.

Each year, the Society of Mary recognizes brothers and priests who are marking milestones of their first profession of vows or their priestly ordinations. Thank you to our 2024 Jubilarians! We will highlight them over the course of the next few months in FamilyOnline. Click here to see pictures from the Jubilee celebration in Cupertino, CA, earlier this month.

BROTHER WILLIAM BOLTS

70 Years of profession

I was born on September 7, 1935, in San Francisco, CA. I attended St. John the Evangelist Grade School, Archbishop Riordan High School, and Saint Mary’s College. I earned a master’s degree from UCLA and a PhD from Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh. I am thankful to God and Mary, my family, my nurturing home parish, and fellow Marianists. To all who made this unfold — I am most thankful! I am most grateful to have been called to be a Marianist religious brother in a society founded by Blessed William Joseph Chaminade for the glory of God and the honor of Mary. Click here to read more.

FATHER TIMOTHY DWYER

70 Years of profession

Thinking back over these years, I’ve come to realize how important “family” has been throughout my entire life. I was born an only child but into a large, extended Irish-American family. I don’t think I was ever very conscious of being an “only.” We actually referred to our family as a “tribe” – parents, grandparents, uncles, aunts, and numerous cousins. We belonged to each other. So, family was important to me from the beginning. What has been most rewarding has been living in community and working side by side with men and women committed to embodying the spirit of Jesus and Mary in their lives and in the lives of others. That, for me, is what Marianist priesthood is all about. Click here to read more.

BROTHER WILLIAM GRUNDISH

70 Years of profession

I have enjoyed my life as a Marianist. My life as an active Marianist could be seen as a life as a teacher, a counselor, and a coach. My life as a Marianist is a constant backdrop to this life. When I began teaching, I was more interested in “doing the job.” Over time, I discovered that being a Marianist, I took in more than the students I taught, counseled, or coached and all whom I met. Finally, is my life as a Marianist. When I retired from working in high schools and moved to Cincinnati, I realized more clearly my life as a life of service to the people with whom I work and to my community. Click here to read more.

BROTHER IRWIN WACHTEL

70 Years of profession

I was born on February 21, 1936, in Smithton, IL. My formal education included Saint John the Baptist Grade School, Maryhurst Postulate, Marynook Novitiate and St. Mary’s University, where I earned a degree in History.  A neighbor’s family had a son who was a Marianist whom I admired. I entered the postulate at Maryhurst, which led to the novitiate. I was always interested in things scientific and technological, and I enjoyed providing for the physical needs of the community and institution wherever I was assigned. It has been a fulfilling life dedicated to the advancement of the kingdom of God. Click here to read more.

FATHER BERTRAND BUBY

60 Years of ordination

I was born and raised in Braddock, Pennsylvania. I professed my first vows in Marcy, New York, in 1952 and was ordained in 1964 in Fribourg, Switzerland with 24 other Marianists from other Provinces of the Society of Mary. My service includes ministry at high schools, University of Dayton, the Provincial Council and the International Marian Research Institute. There are so many graces we have received in these many years. “What can I ask of the Lord? I will take up the cup of salvation and call on the name of the Lord. I will say my vows to the Lord.” Psalm 116:12-14. Click here to read more.

FATHER JAMES RUSSELL

60 Years of ordination

As a grade-schooler at St. Norbert parish in Pittsburgh, I greatly admired our associate pastor. This led me to choose the priesthood as my vocation, and I entered a high school seminary. Having failed freshman algebra, I had to retake it in summer school. It was available at North Catholic, where I met some impressive Marianists. As they say, the rest is history. I am profoundly grateful for having been called to the Marianist life – a life of ministry and service flowing from faith and Fr. Chaminade’s charism. The motto I chose in the novitiate was “Behold your Mother.”  Click here to read more.

Good to Know

Now Accepting Seed Grant Applications

Do you have a project that needs additional funds? The Visitation Marianist State Community may be able to help. The community of vowed Lay Marianists provides grants in the following categories:

  • Strengthen Marianist Lay communities and networks
  • Assist in building the Church
  • Impact the faith and involvement of young adults in the Church
  • Social justice, including economic justice, environmental justice, and human rights

Grants are intended for special projects, not for general operating funds. Grant proposals must be sponsored by a member of the Marianist Family. For more information or to request an application form, click here. Applications are due by August 31, 2024.

The Ripple Effect of Family Spirit

Linda Muller never planned to attend St. Mary’s University (StMU). But with three degrees (B.A. ’86, B.B.A. ’86, M.A. ’03), a wedding, eight children and a 30-year career, currently as Director of Enterprise Systems and Services at the university, Muller is happy with God’s plan.

On the last day of orientation all those years ago, the Houston native made the long drive to San Antonio on a whim. Already packing up for the day, the staff took one look at Muller and took her to the cafeteria to get something to eat before helping her settle in.

“From that moment, I was sold on St. Mary’s,” Muller said. “When people arrive on campus, they are our family, whether they’re here for one day or whether they’re here for four years or 30 years. Family spirit is the foundation of everything at St. Mary’s.”

Her promotion of the family spirit earned her a spot as one of the 2024 Marianist Heritage Award honorees for showcasing faithfulness to the University’s Marianist heritage.

Click here to discover how StMU played a role in meeting her husband and just how many of her children decided to become Rattlers too.

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – President

• Mother Seton Academy (MD) – President

• Chaminade College Prep (CA) – Assistant Director of Student Activities

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Director of Advancement

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #82 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

    

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Graduates of Resilience – Commencements of Hope

One of the characteristics of a Marianist education is Adaptation and Change. Many 2024 university graduates had to begin their college journeys adapting to an environment of social distancing and virtual learning while developing skills to create positive change.

Commencement speeches everywhere included the challenges students faced. However, at Marianist institutions, the focus was on how fear and adversities did not define them; they only strengthened them with God’s guidance.

Director of Campus Ministry Fr. Chris Wittmann thanked God as he addressed the audience at Chaminade University of Honolulu’s (CUH) invocation. “You blessed and carried them through a world pandemic that took some of their loved ones and changed their education, through devastating fires on Maui, a typhoon in Guam, news of war, devastation, and division.”

The CUH commencement ceremony honored almost 600 graduates. The Commencement Speaker, Executive Counselor for the Asian Pacific Islander Health Forum, Dr. Kamanaʻopono M. Crabbe, told them, “Each one of you represents not just academic success but a journey of determination, resilience, and hope.”

That message echoed through the University of Dayton Arena (UD) as graduates received medals depicting Blessed William Joseph Chaminade. Provost and Executive VP of Academic Affairs Dr. Darlene Weaver asked students to don their medals, saying, “In Chaminade’s ever-inspiring example, we entrust you to go forth living humbly, acting boldly, and working imaginatively and prayerfully to build community.”

UD conferred a record 1,805 undergraduate degrees this spring. Hogan VanSickle was among the 177 UD School of Law graduates almost eight years after a near-fatal car accident left her with quadriplegia. The health care and systemic challenges she faced inspired her. “My accident was a catalyst to pursue a career in law. As Ruth Bader Ginsburg aptly noted, ‘So often in life, things that you regard as an impediment turn out to be good fortune,’” VanSickle said.

UD President Dr. Eric Spina reiterated that notion, “I hold much hope in my heart for your class. Educated at this Catholic Marianist university, you have internalized a moral compass that will guide you to work for the common good and make a difference in the world. “

St Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX, celebrated 565 new graduates in two commencement ceremonies. Its School of Law awarded 281 law degrees where convocation presenters spoke to the challenges students faced and how the Marianist Charism helped them overcome and flourish, selflessly helping those around them.

Dean of St. Mary’s University School of Law Dr. Patricia Roberts told the graduates, “In the face of adversity, you embodied the Marianist pillars of community, mission, and inclusivity. Your class amassed over 17,000 hours of law and pro bono service, positively impacting communities across our region and the nation. Our Catholic Marianist values call us to lead lives of service and to use our gifts to uplift others.”

 

Chaminade University of Honolulu
University of Dayton
St. Mary's University

Congratulations to all graduates! May you continue to carry, lean on, and use the fundamentals of your Marianist education throughout your lives.

In The News

First Vows Celebration for Chicago Schuller

Bro. Chicago Joe Schuller professed First Vows in the Society of Mary on May 18, 2024, at Queen of Apostles Chapel in Beavercreek, OH. Director of Novices Bro. Dennis Bautista and Assistant Director of Novices Fr. Tim Eden presented Bro. Chicago as a suitable candidate for the profession of vows after a period of formation and discernment. His vows were received by Provincial of the Marianist Province of the U.S. Fr. Oscar Vasquez.

“Fr. Jim Tobin was the first Marianist I ever met. His gentle and prayerful presence helped me as I was rediscovering my faith in God and prayer with Mary. Fr. Larry Doersching reminded me that the brothers are normal guys called to do grand things for Mary’s mission. Without his guidance, I would not be here today. And Bro. Mike Sullivan taught me what it means to be a man who builds community. These men of great faith helped cultivate my calling,” said Schuller.

Bro. Chicago will be assigned to the Maryland Ave. Community in St. Louis. He will serve in campus ministry and institutional advancement at St. John Vianney High School.

Click here to read more. Click here to view photos from the ceremony and celebration.

Lay Community Commitment Mass

The Flor de Fe Marianist Lay Community (MLC) celebrated its commitment Mass on Sunday, April 28, 2024, in the Assumption Chapel at St. Mary’s University. Flor de Fe is Spanish for Flower of Faith. A member of the group suggested the name because he saw their MLC as a place where their faith can continue to bloom. One member of the group, not pictured below, is Madeline Emke. She made her commitment on Sunday, May 5.

L to R: Bro. Dan Klco, SM, Irene Urbina Zuniga, Doug Weller, Mary Sommer and José Chaman (a member of the Sub Tuum MLC who assisted in their formation)
Back row, L to R: Bro. Dan Klco, SM, Andrew Villarreal (aspirant), Arty Cantu, Paula Ferradas Hiraoka, Fr. John Thompson, SM Front row, L to R: Suzy Ibarra, Eliana Villarreal, Irene Urbina Zuniga, Doug Weller, Mary Sommer and José Chaman

Chaminade University Awarded $1.5 Million

The U.S. Senate passed the second half of a bipartisan government funding bill that included $31.8 million in new congressionally directed spending, also known as earmarks, secured by U.S. Senator Brian Schatz (D-Hawai’i), chair of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Development. Chaminade University of Honolulu was awarded $1.5 million,  which will be used to build the capacity of the Higher Education in Prison program to expand it from male prisoners only to include incarcerated women as well as a bachelor’s track. Click here to read more.

Marianist Ministries in Action

“Singing is Praying Twice”

At St. Anthony School, a Marianist-sponsored K-12 Catholic school on Maui, the Marianist Doxology is being sung to a new tune.

Senior Rob Ryane Gonzales, who lends his musical talents to his parish by playing piano for Masses, decided to harness his hymn and harmony skills and provide instrumental accompaniment for a daily school prayer as part of his senior project.

“I looked at the use of sacred music in the Catholic Chuch and evangelizing and sanctifying the faithful. So, part of my senior project is I took one of the pieces we usually sing during lunch prayer. It’s the last part of the Marianist Doxology, but we never had actual sheet music to go off of, so I worked with our parish music director to write out a piece and have it played on the piano so we could have instrumental music to sing with,” explained Gonzales.

The sound is striking a chord with students! Click here or the play button in the red box to hear from the impressive young composer himself as he comically explains why it’s a melody in the works but believes singing is like praying twice.

He created a YouTube channel for his works, including the Marianist Doxology. You can check it out by clicking here.

From the Archives

Did You Know?

Bishop Fulton J. Sheen (1895-1979), among the most well-known churchmen of the 20th century – garnering the cover of Time magazine in 1952 – was taught by the Brothers of Mary. He graduated from Spalding Institute in Peoria, IL, in 1913. The Marianists staffed this school from 1899-1933.

An extraordinary communicator, Fulton began the “Catholic Hour” radio program in 1932 and, from 1951 to 1957, hosted the highly acclaimed television series “Life is Worth Living.” Fr. Lawrence Monheim, S.M. (1905-1985) presented Sheen with the Marian Library Medal in 1953, the same year he won an Emmy Award—the only time an Emmy was given to a religious program in prime-time TV.

On his show, he mentioned the “daily three Hail Marys” he remembered from the Brothers of Mary in high school, who he described as “excellent teachers, given to discipline, yet much beloved.”

If you’d like to see images from the archives, visit and “like” this Facebook page.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

 

Each year, the Society of Mary recognizes brothers and priests who are marking milestones of their first profession of vows or their priestly ordinations. Thank you to our 2024 Jubilarians! We will highlight them over the course of the next few months in FamilyOnline. Click here to see pictures from the Jubilee celebration in San Antonio earlier this month.

BROTHER JAMES LEAHY

80 years of profession

I was born on September 2, 1925, in Brooklyn, NY. I have three brothers and one sister. I professed my first vows on August 20, 1944, at Marianist Prep in Beacon, NY. I was blessed to serve in many schools before I retired in 2008 to the Cupertino Marianist Community in Cupertino, CA. I learned quite early in life that I would not be able to do everything for everybody but would be able to do something for somebody. Click here to read more.

 

FATHER DONALD CAHILL

75 years of profession

I was ordained on June 11, 1961. There were four of us: me, Don Cowie, a Japanese Marianist, and a Spanish Marianist, who went to a nearby German diocese to be ordained with their ordination class. I returned to the United States and celebrated my first Mass at my home parish, Holy Redeemer in Detroit, with my family present. In all my ministries, I continue to know that there is no end to God’s mercy and that He never gives up on us. It has been a blessing. Click here to read more.

BROTHER RICHARD DIX

75 years of profession

I first met the Marianists during my freshman year at Don Bosco High School. The school was just opening, and I was the sixth student to register. I had all Marianist teachers and was impressed by their cheerfulness, happiness, and caring attitude toward the students and each other. This was impressive since they were temporarily living and sleeping in empty classrooms with bedsheet partitions. I was very impressed by what they were doing and how they were doing it. I could see myself doing this. In my junior year, I became a postulant in St. Louis and, a year later, went to the novitiate in Galesville, Wisconsin. Click here to read more.

BROTHER CHARLES GAUSLING

75 years of profession

As a senior at Purcell High School, I was approached about a vocation to be a Marianist. God gave me the grace to devote my life in service to Mary — doing her work — which has been a challenge ever since. I accomplished this by serving as a teacher in the United States and in the missions. In living out my religious life, I have found the need for a solid prayer life which, with God’s grace and Mary’s help, I have tried to do.  I thank God for all the graces he has given me, and I pray for Mary’s help to continue to cooperate with them. Click here to read more.

FATHER ROBERT E. HUGHES

75 years of profession

I first met the Marianist brothers at a very young age, they taught at my grade school, Immaculate Conception, in Washington D.C. Of particular influence was Bro. Joe Weber in eighth grade. I probably also developed a special devotion to the Blessed Mother at that time. When I asked my parents if I could go to the Postulate at Mount Saint John in Dayton, OH, they were very supportive. After seminary in Fribourg, Switzerland, I learned to love the Church in a special way because of my years of service at the Vatican writing letters to various bishops regarding Vatican II. Click here to read more.

BROTHER LEO SLAY

75 years of profession

Bro. Leo Slay came from a family that had been in the restaurant business since 1911 and has been actively engaged in food service in the Society of Mary since 1949. He’s been a consultant for all types of food service operations, has organized and directed numerous culinary institutes and workshops, and has served as a food service director at Marianist schools. Bro. Leo says, “I believe there is no better way to be happy than to be of service to others.” Click here to read more.

Good to Know

Dedication of Blessed Chaminade Bust on Maui

On April 17, 2024, Fr. Roland Bunda blessed a bronze bust sculpture of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade at St. Anthony of Padua Church and School on Maui. He was accompanied by the ‘Ohana ‘O Malia Marianist Lay Community, Oahu Lay Marianists, Monsignor Terrence Watanabe, Parochial Vicar Fr. Ese Ese “Ace” Tui, and other guests.

When the Marianist priests and brothers left Maui on June 30, 2021, Most Rev. Bishop Larry Silva dedicated a perpetual area in the church courtyard, including a glass enclosure, to commemorate the 138 years of pastoral care to the parish.

Provincial Fr. Oscar Vasquez commissioned a bust sculpture of Blessed Chaminade by Emeterio Valderrabano Garrido in Mexico. The local Marianist Lay Community then researched an appropriate pedestal to enhance the statue and secured the expertise of sculptor Tim Garcia. He created a harmonious balance of shape and form to let the natural beauty of Maui influence his work. The finished product is a wooden pedestal clad in marble, showcasing two commemorative plaques with the Marianist logo and dates. Click here to see more pictures.

MLC-NA Member Meeting

The Marianist Lay Community of North America’s (MLC-NA) annual Member Meeting is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 14, this year.

This is an opportunity to learn more about upcoming initiatives, ask questions, and hear from other Lay Marianists. This year’s meeting will also feature an opportunity to hear from candidates for the Heads of Office for Temporalities and Spirituality, both of which are up for election this fall.

While MLC-NA’s Member Meeting will focus on the affairs of the lay branch, the meeting is open to all who wish to attend.

Click here for the Zoom link. The times are as follows: 3 pm Eastern | 2 pm Central | 12 pm Pacific | 9 am Hawaii

Join Us!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – President

• Mother Seton Academy (MD) – President

• Chaminade College Prep (CA) – Assistant Director of Student Activities

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Director of Advancement

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina  from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #79 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

    

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Earth Day Is Everyday for Marianists

Earth Day was celebrated this spring on April 22 with environmental activities across the globe. For the Marianist Family Encounters Project, protecting the planet is a year-round pursuit. The Marianist Family wants to thank all those who devote time and energy to making an ecological difference around campuses and neighborhoods. Highlighted this year are three Marianist-sponsored schools for fostering environmental clean-up, recycling, spreading the charism, and sustainability initiatives.

  • Mother Seton Academy in Baltimore, MD, the smallest school in the Marianist sponsorship collaborative with just 80 students, had almost half the school commit to a neighborhood clean-up project. It began last spring with a community neighborhood clean-up and plantings at the pocket park across from the school. This year, they started “green teams” comprised of about six members who pick up trash at the park and surrounding area. “I was overwhelmed with the response from the students,” said Linda Clarke-Tucker, ministry lead and science educator/STEAM coordinator at Mother Seton. “The students hope that their efforts will foster a spirit of hope in the community and encourage adults to maintain the area along with them,” said Clarke-Tucker.
  • Central Catholic High School in San Antonio, TX, under the leadership of Ministry Lead and Guardian Angel Moderator James Bendele, continued its dedication to two different projects. “Our Guardian Angels and Environment Club teamed up for our annual Basura Bash,’ said Bendele. “We spent a morning and afternoon cleaning up plastics at OP Schnabel Park and the Leon Creek Greenway. The following week, the Guardian Angels cleaned out the stables at the Saddle Light Center. This organization uses horses as therapy for children with various disabilities ranging from Down’s Syndrome to Muscular Dystrophy and other concerns. “It was awesome being able to do this work and spend time with the horses, too,” said Bendele.
  • Colegio San José students in San Juan, PR, who participate in the Environmental Committee and EcoSchool, organized a virtual workshop on composting under the leadership of Ministry Lead and School Counselor Edilmari Longo Vega. The tutorial was offered by agronomist Dalma Cartagena, who gave an overview of the fundamentals of composting. The workshop included moderators and students from the Ecology and Recycling Clubs “and strengthened our sense of family and reinforced our commitment to sustainability,” said Longo Vera.

 Online Opportunity

“We are encouraged by the environmental work undertaken by our Marianist schools,” said Bro. Steve O’Neil, who also invites Marianist Family members to sign up for an online opportunity called  Reversing Global Warming. “Sometimes we feel overwhelmed and don’t know where to start,” said Bro. Steve. “This five-week series from Apr. 25-May 23 will help you recognize ways you can make a difference.”

Click here to register for the online series

There will also be a Marianist Encounters Conference this fall that advances the Marianist Family’s efforts in implementing the goals of Laudato Si’ and the Global Compact on Education. Click here for the Save-the-Date.

Mother Seton Academy
Central Catholic High School
Colegio San José

In The News

Annunciation, Birthday, and Solar Celebration

This year, the Feast of the Annunciation fell on Monday, April 8, 2024, which was also Blessed William Joseph Chaminade’s 263rd birth anniversary. If that wasn’t enough to celebrate, a total solar eclipse coincided with these events.

To mark this historic alignment, friends,  donors, volunteers, and Marianist Family members in the Dayton, OH, area gathered at Mount Saint John for refreshments, socializing, and prayer. Fr. Johann Roten briefly talked about Astronomical Events in Scripture and Marian Images. Fr. Roten is a Marianist priest and internationally recognized scholar on Mary, the mother of Christ, and transhumanism. He is a scholar in residence with the University of Dayton International Marian Research Institute.

Congratulations Bro. Thierry

Bro. Thierry Kadja (from Togo) participated in the “Flyer Pitch” competition at University of Dayton and was awarded $50,000.  He was seeking funding to advance his PhD research project, which is a portable polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test to detect diseases in farm animals. A PCR test, used during COVID-19, identifies genetic material in a sample to diagnose infectious diseases and genetic changes. Click here to read more.

Dispute Resolution Team Wins National Championship

From left, Delaney Montez, Max Massey, and Jacklyn Dhaemers

While many students took time off during Spring Break, the St. Mary’s University’s School of Law’s National Dispute Resolution Team was hard at work. The team was crowned national champions in an American Bar Association competition and will represent the United States internationally in Poland in May.

“We continue to be impressed with the dedication, hard work and talent of our students and coaches,” said Dean of the School of Law Patricia Roberts, J.D.

The national championship builds upon a record-breaking season for the Advocacy Program. St. Mary’s School of Law is the first and only law school in the history of American Bar Association competitions to have teams advance to national finals in all five advocacy categories in the same academic year. Those categories are appellate competition, arbitration, client counseling, mediation, and negotiations.

Marianist Schools Partnership

Our Lady of Nazareth
St. John Vianney High School
St. John Vianney High School
Our Lady of Nazareth

St. John Vianney High School began every day of its Mission Week in March with a lesson on Our Lady of Nazareth Primary School (OLN), located in the largest and worst slum in Nairobi, Kenya. For the 1,900 children enrolled at OLN, education offers an opportunity to break the cycle of poverty in which they were born.

Students at Vianney partnered with OLN, raising enough money during its 2024 Mission Week to sponsor a classroom for a year. The relationship developed when Fr. Gabriel Kirangah, the director of OLN, had his students write letters to the students of Vianney. For two years now, students from the two Marianist schools have been corresponding.

In 2023, students donated enough money to build a water point at the school. This year, Ministry Lead and Marketing/Communication Director Sapna Jos reports more than $6,000 was raised. “Mission Week this year included competitions and a coffee bar that helped raise the funds,” said Jos. Additionally, every theology course at Vianney dedicated one class to teaching about Our Lady of Nazareth Primary School. Vianney looks forward to continuing its partnership with OLN in the months and years ahead.

International Extravaganza Gets Rave Reviews

Chaminade University of Honolulu hosted its annual International Extravaganza with much fanfare. Student-led performances of cultural dance and song delighted the crowd of students, teachers, families, and the Marianist community, including Fr. Chris Wittmann and Bro. Ed Brink, as seen above. In typical Marianist tradition, there were plenty of Hawaiian delectables for everyone to sample.

It’s an opportunity to learn more about all the different cultures represented at the university. Jessica Laird is a second-year student from Chicago. Laird is a study abroad student from the University of Dayton, and this was her first time experiencing International Extravaganza.

“My favorite parts were when each culture would drag the crowd in to come dance with them,” said Laird. “My friends and I wished we would have joined one of the clubs at the beginning of the semester to learn all the dances, so when we got asked to go and join them it was so much fun. International Extravaganza was my favorite event on campus so far.”

Marianist Ministries in Action

Farewell, and Thank You!

Thomas M. Mengler, J.D., known for his tremendous energy and administrative talent, is about to embark on a new chapter in his life. On May 31, 2024, he will retire as president of  St. Mary’s University, a position he has held for the past 12 years.

Looking back at his time at St. Mary’s, he credits the Marianists for instilling in him the importance of  “walking humbly with the Lord,” an attitude that he saw reinforced by many members of the St. Mary’s community who exude humility, gratitude, and charity.

“I saw this not only in the leadership team and my direct reports but also Ida, my favorite housekeeper on campus, and Luis, the best landscaper in Texas, who beautified our campus grounds,” he said. “It was also evident in Fr. Jim Tobin, my holy Father, and Fr. John Thompson, the singing, guitar-playing Marianist who inspires faith and servant leadership among our students.”

He is hesitant to claim his many achievements at St. Mary’s because “there were so many good colleagues who shouldered responsibility for them,” he said. But three initiatives stand above the rest.

Dr. Mengler and his wife Mona

First is the deepening of St. Mary’s Catholic Marianist identity. “I underscore ‘Catholic’ here,” said Mengler. “The Marianist Charism begins and ends with Mary as Mother of Jesus – and of Jesus as our Savior, who became man, suffered on the Cross, and rose from the dead. Our Catholic Marianist identity is stronger today in a number of ways, including through the Center for Catholic Studies.”

The second is the success of The Defining Moment Campaign, which raised more than $165 million, ten times larger than any previous campaign. “As important as the funding we received from our generous benefactors were the numbers – more than 11,000 individual donors,” said Mengler. “These numbers alone show the gratitude of our alumni for their St. Mary’s education, and they certainly suggest that St. Mary’s future will be bright.”

The third is the culture of excellence and continuous improvement, now deeply embedded in the fabric of the university. “It was not so 12 years ago. I am so proud of and confident in St. Mary’s leadership team, especially Winston Erevelles, who will soon be the 14th president of St. Mary’s University. I am pretty sure Mother Mary could not be happier.”

Mengler’s retirement is one of those bitter-sweet moments in life. “I’m not yet sure what’s next for me other than to continue to use my gifts and talents for the greater good.” He is looking forward to spending more time with his grandchildren. “Nothing could top that, other than the continuing joy of family and friends. My wife, Mona, and I have so many good friendships at St. Mary’s,” said Mengler.

A Marianist Moment

Marianist Women’s Summit and FMI (USA) 75th Anniversary

Save the date! The Marianist Sisters invite you to a “Marianist Women’s Summit” and the celebration of the 75th anniversary of its USA Foundation from Oct. 25-26 in San Antonio. The summit will provide an opportunity for lay and vowed women in the Marianist Family to visit, pray, and converse about Mary’s Magnificat call in our lives.

The event will take place at the Marianist Sisters’ Our Lady of the Pillar Community on Friday, Oct. 25, and at St. Mary’s University School of Law on Saturday. On Saturday, Oct. 26 at 4:00 p.m., the Marianist Women’s Summit participants will join the wider Marianist Family and guests to celebrate the 75th Anniversary Mass, which will be held in The Blessed Adele Chapel at Central Catholic High School. Following Mass, there will be a social, meal, and presentation.

From the Archives

Click play below to watch the history of Bro. Stephen’s Faith Journey

A parishioner of St. Augustine in Old City Philadelphia, Marianist brother, and child psychologist, Bro. Stephen Glodek shares his faith journey delving into the Marianist founding in France in 1817 and reflecting on how Mary helps guide him in his interactions with youth today.

 

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

The University of Dayton (UD) is saddened to announce that former Flyer men’s basketball captain and head coach Don Donoher passed away on April 12, 2024, at the age of 92. The all-time winningest coach in UD basketball history, Donoher is a member of the National Collegiate Basketball Hall of Fame. One of the top coaches of his generation, Donoher was an assistant coach on the United States’ gold medal-winning team at the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. At the time of his death, he was the oldest living coach to have taken a team to the Final Four. Click here to read more.

Good to Know

Exploring the Lives of the Marianist Founders

The Marianist Retreat and Conference Center, located in Eureka, MO, is offering a free, enlightening, three-part series on the profound legacy of the Marianist founders. The sessions will celebrate the lives, teachings, and enduring impact of these remarkable figures, with a special focus on what they have to say to us today.

The sessions will be held on Wednesday evenings from May 1 to May 15, and special speakers will include Fr. George Cerniglia, Bro. Jesse O’Neill, and Fr. Sean Downing.

Click the image to see more details.

Book Your Family Summer Retreat

Explore the opportunities offered at the Marianist Family Retreat Center in Cape May Point, NJ.

Retreat weeks start each Monday, beginning June 24 through Aug. 17. While single-parent families are always welcome, the week of July 15-20 is specifically designated for single parents.

Join together with other families for the week. Mass and other family liturgies are complemented by skits, presentations, family sharing, peer group discussions, sunset beach walks, and other fun activities.

Scheduled recreation and free time (4-5 hours daily), with ocean swimming (the beach is a 1/2 block away), are part of all family retreats. The cost includes meals, room, program, beach access, and more!

Click here for more information or email: [email protected] or call 609-884-3829 – financial aid is available.

Join Us!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

• Chaminade College Prep (CA) – Assistant Director of Student Activities

• Marianist Province of the U.S. (MO) – Coordinator, Office of Sponsorship

•  Marianist Province of the U.S. (MO) – Digital Communications Marketing Coordinator

• Director Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning (OH) – Executive Director

• Marianist Retreat & Conference Center (MO) – Director of Hospitality

• Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Asst. Principal and Director of Advancement

• North American Center for Marianist Studies (OH) – Program Administrator

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina  from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #79 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

    

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Forever Marianist

If you stroll around University of Dayton, you’ll inevitably notice a palpable sense of community, intellectual curiosity, and a faith-filled welcoming presence – hallmarks of the Marianist Charism.

Marianist Educational Associates

But it’s when you shake hands with a Marianist Educational Associate (MEA), one of 127 specially trained faculty and staff at UD, that you’ll notice the warmth of the Marianists. More precisely, you’ll find yourself in the care of “a champion of our Marianist and Catholic identity,” as Fr. Jim Fitz, vice president for mission and rector, describes them.

With fewer Marianists occupying a visible role in university activities, simply due to the increasing age and decreasing number of brothers, the importance of MEAs and lay champions has taken on greater significance.

It’s one reason an initiative called  Forever Marianist was launched by a handful of UD alumni donors in 2021. The goal was to increase financial support for the formation and funding of  MEAs and other lay leaders, as well as the work of Campus Ministry, the Marian Library, the Center for Catholic Education and other academic programs that advance UD’s Catholic, Marianist philosophy of education.

Bro. Tom Giardino, executive director of the Association of Marianist Universities, whose goal is to develop strong Marianist lay leaders, sees the MEAs as a critical link in sustaining a stable Marianist presence. “We need a significant number of university employees who are steeped in the Catholic and Marianist traditions of education and willing to incorporate these traditions into the culture of their university,” said Bro. Tom. “They also must be capable of adapting these traditions to forge an engaging response to challenges in American higher education while contributing toward global justice – an integral goal of  the Marianist Charism.”

That’s a tall order. One that Ryan Allen, an MEA since 2014, found a bit intimidating.

As executive director for UD’s Center for Online Learning, Allen “never thought when I began at UD, let alone even now, that I should be the one talking about what it means to be a Marianist,” he said.

Yet he has found that people need to hear this coming from other people besides vowed religious. “I think that’s part of being an MEA. You don’t have to be a priest. You don’t have to have all the answers. You don’t have to be a perfect Catholic. You have to be somebody aspiring to learn more, do better, and build connections on this campus in a way that the collective gets better.”

Click here to learn more about Marianist Educational Associates at all three Marianist universities.

In The News

March to Dublin, Ireland

The St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (STVM) marching band made its international debut on March 17 at the St. Patrick’s Day parade in Dublin, Ireland.

Participants reported perfect weather and an amazing crowd of about half a million spectators. Those marching in the parade included current students, ten alumni, one majorette, and one Irish dancer. Director of Bands Brian Campbell received a citation from the Lord Mayor of Dublin.

The marching band started raising funds for this opportunity after receiving an invitation to march in the parade back in 2022. The STVM community raised more than $100,000 for the trip, which significantly reduced the cost for students.

Click here to view a video reel from the parade.

Click here for a video performance in Dublin.

March Madness

For the first time since 2017, the University of Dayton (UD) Flyers men’s basketball team battled in the NCAA Tournament. The season ended for the team in the second round, falling to ninth-ranked Arizona.

It was UD’s 19th NCAA appearance. The Flyers reached the Final Four once (1967), the Elite Eight three times (1967, 1984 and 2014), and the Sweet Sixteen seven times (1952, 1965, 1966, 1967, 1974, 1984 and 2014). UD made it to the NCAA championship game in 1967, losing to the first of the Lew Alcindor UCLA teams.

Girls HS Basketball History

The Purcell Marian High School girl’s basketball team has scored three state titles in a row! The Cavaliers defeated Shaker Heights Laurel School 79-52  in the Division II girl’s basketball state final at University of Dayton Arena to win their third-consecutive state championship. The team is the sixth girl’s team in OHSAA history to do so.

Purcell Marian won the 2023 Division II state title, the 2022 Division III state title, and was a 2021 Division III state semifinalist.

St. Mary’s Draws Policymakers and Experts to Address Homelessness

St. Mary’s University recently led a discussion on how the community can help people experiencing homelessness. The event, moderated by University President Dr. Thomas Mengler,  included a panel of policymakers and experts — such as U.S. Rep. Joaquin Castro and Mayor of San Antonio Ron Nirenberg.

To continue St. Mary’s University’s dedicated pursuit of fostering meaningful dialogue for the community’s well-being, the St. Mary’s Center for Catholic Studies presented the latest conversation series called Finding Common Ground for the Common Good. The discussion was free and open to the public. Click here to read more.

Gala of Gratefulness

Chaminade University of Honolulu held the Silverswords Gala, a benefit dinner for student and athletic scholarships. The gathering served a purpose woven into the fabric of education and opportunity.

In a video presentation, Chaminade senior Audrey Pilar ’24 described how she cried for an hour after learning she received a scholarship. “These scholarships are way more than just a financial burden lifted off someone’s shoulders,” the forensics major said. “It’s way more than just money to a person because to me, I think you’re giving someone hope, and you’re giving someone a chance.”

“Education transforms lives,” said Chaminade President Dr. Lynn Babington, adding, “Our students set out to change the world—they are making a difference.”

Marianist Ministries in Action

Eagle Scout Pays Homage to School, Scouts, and Mary

When Sam Wynn, a senior at St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School in St. Louis, began strategizing how he could earn an Eagle Scout Award, a process that involves garnering 21 merit badges, he knew one thing. “I wanted to build something for my school.”

He especially wanted a project that would emphasize the mission of faith formation through education. That’s when he came up with the South Side Reflection Garden – a prayer space on campus near the Chapel. “It’s so much more than a prayer garden,” declared Wynn. “The area can be used as an outdoor classroom for teachers and students. It can also be used by our school’s counselors or anyone who wants to use it as a meditation space.”

The project took on a life of its own when Eagle Scout Sponsor Tony Duncan invited Sam to build a prayer bench at his house. St. Mary’s students Soren Hennies,’24, Drew Harden,’26, Julian Christians and Justin Waeltermann,’28, also members of Troop 51, pitched in to help him build and sand the bench.

Having now installed the bench and a statue of Mary, the garden is starting to come alive. “Some of the scouts planted perennial seeds near the statue, so those should be blooming soon,” said Wynn.

“To earn an Eagle Scout Award requires determination, planning, and preparation,” said St. Mary’s South Side Catholic Principal Valerie Todd, who, along with Facilities Director Ryan Reynolds, helped Sam navigate the decisions and approvals about the implementation of his plan. “This project not only showed Sam’s commitment to the tenets of scouting but also his love and dedication to St. Mary’s,” said Todd.

Reflecting on his time in scouts, Sam lights up with enthusiasm: “I have enjoyed every minute of Boy Scouts,” he said. “It opened my eyes to so much in nature.” Sam is also grateful for everyone who helped him along the way. “I had a strong support system. Not everyone is given the opportunity to do something like this.”

Sam Wynn
Sam with friends and fellow troop members

A Marianist Moment

By Bro. David Betz

Celebrating the Resurrection as a Moment in Time and a Mystery That Endures

When celebrating the Resurrection, we are remembering an event in which Jesus was raised from the dead after experiencing arrest, interrogation, torture, and crucifixion. Jesus’ followers were unaware that this could be a possibility since they were not fully paying attention to Jesus’ predictions of his passion, death, and rising. Their fear led them to flee and hide since they felt that they might experience the same fate if they were found out to be a follower of Jesus. But it was the event of Jesus’ rising that eventually led the apostles to remember the importance of Jesus’ words and action while he was alive (see John 2:22, Luke 24:30-32). Understanding the importance of Jesus’ Paschal Mystery, then, enabled the apostles to engage in the process of sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ. It was their diligence and perseverance that allowed them to keep the memory of Jesus Christ alive.

Rabbi Abraham Joshua Heschel (renowned Jewish theologian, and philosopher) said, “Memory is a source of faith. To have faith is to remember. Jewish faith is a recollection of that which happened to Israel in the past. The events in which the spirit of God became a reality stand before our eyes, painted in colors that never fade. Much of what the Bible demands can be comprised in one word: Remember.” (pg. 2 of Chap. 1, Thunder in the Soul: To Be Known by God, ed. Robert Erlewine).

I believe the same thing can be said about our Christian faith. Our faith is a recollection of that which happened to the Christian community in the past, and the Christian Scriptures are testaments to the events of Jesus Christ’s life and the early Christian community. It has been the Gospels, the Acts of the Apostles, the Letters of Paul, Peter, James, John, and Jude and the Book of Revelation that have provided the memory for us to preserve the Paschal Mystery for generations and, of course, into the future.

Click here to read more.

From the Archives

Miracle Moment

Reference and Research Archivist for the Marianist Province of the United States Lisa Finnie shares a miracle moment in Marianist history that occurred 25 years ago.

In October 1999, following extensive inquiry, the miraculous cure of Elena Otero, attributable to the intercession of Venerable William Joseph Chaminade, was unanimously authenticated by the Ordinary Congregation of Cardinals and Bishops. On December 20, 1999, the Promulgation of the Decree of Approbation of the miracle was declared.

It was that miracle that merited the beatification of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade by Pope John Paul II the following year.

Elena Graciela Otero de Gaudino of Buenos Aires, Argentina, was diagnosed with a malignant tumor of the thyroid gland in early 1991 at the age of 49. While awaiting surgery, she and her friends, Marianist religious and lay Marianists, prayed for healing through the intercession of Fr. Chaminade. The tumor completely disappeared without any medical intervention, and her cure was determined to be scientifically inexplicable by the Medical Board of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. Otero lived to the age of 72, maintaining her strong faith till the end.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

Bro. Frank (Paco) Gomes, 83, died on March 13, 2024, in Cupertino, CA, with 64 years of religious profession.

Known affectionately as Brother Paco, Brother Frank served in teaching
ministries for more than 30 years both in his native Hawaii and in Mexico. He also devoted much of his energy toward promoting Hispanic culture in the schools where he served and in community support organizations.

Click here to read more.

Click here to see more pictures.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Good to Know

Mass of Thanksgiving and Art

Join us as we celebrate our artists in Ohio. After more than 34 years of displaying the creative talents of the Marianist Brothers, Gallery Saint John on the campus of Mount Saint John closed on March 1, 2024.

On April 14, 2024,  a Mass will be held in honor of the artists who use their God-given talents to inspire others. Art is a reflection of God’s creativity, creation, and goodness, and these brothers capture that essence with their artwork.

Click here for the invitation and RSVP details.

 

Imago Dei Assembly – June 27-June 30

The Marianist Social Justice Collaborative’s (MSJC) LGBTQ+ Initiative will host Imago Dei: Embracing the Dignity of LGBTQ+ Persons, an assembly for the Catholic LGBTQ+ community. Imago Dei commemorates the 50th anniversary of a 1974 groundbreaking conference centered on LGBTQ+ inclusion and ministry. It will honor those who developed pastoral outreach and envision how to continue to respond to the needs of the LGBTQ+ community within our Church. Scholarships are available. Click here to learn about speakers, sessions, and other details. 

ALIVE Magazine – Spring Edition

The new fall edition of ALIVE magazine is now available.

Inside, you will find stories about three high school attendees of the Marianist LIFE (Learning in Faith Experience) summer program drawing on lessons they learned in the program to meet the challenges of life and a Marianist Novice celebrates his Texas roots with tasty appetizers and margarita recipes.

Click here to read those stories and more in the digital version.

Join Us!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

•  Marianist Province of the U.S. (TX) – Director of Resident Services

•  Marianist Province of the U.S. (MO) – Digital Communications Marketing Coordinator

• Director Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning (OH) – Executive Director

• St. John Vianney High School (MO) – President

• Marianist Retreat & Conference Center (MO) – Director of Hospitality

• Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Asst. Principal, and Director of Advancement

• North American Center for Marianist Studies (OH) – Program Administrator

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina  from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #79 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

    

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

A Time of Hope

Lent is known as a time of sacrifice and repentance, but it is also a time of great hope. These 40 days offer us an opportunity to restore our relationships – with God, our families, neighbors, and the environment. To renew our relationship with God, we must first heal our relationship with ourselves and others – not always an easy task.

“In a world that is increasingly divided and polarized, we should remember that the Blessed Mother accompanies us in our daily lives. She was the first disciple and a model of faith and accompaniment of the early Christian community. Never once did she give up; never once did she doubt. Her only desire was to do God’s will. Her “yes” to God changed everything. We too can create change with her guidance following the pillars of Lent, and that gives great hope of a better tomorrow for our world and a stronger connection to our God,” said Provincial Fr. Oscar Vasquez.

Marianist schools nationwide started the Lenten season with prayer at Ash Wednesday services. At St. John Vianney High School in St. Louis, students end every day with the Three O’Clock Prayer. It is a chaplet highlighted in Lent as it transports you to the foot of the Cross with Mary.

The University of Dayton (UD) Campus Ministry offers a variety of ways to participate in the Lenten journey, including a Latin-American take on fasting every Friday called Arroz and Gandules. Meatless food is provided as participants refrain from consuming meat to empathize with those who face hunger daily and to provide a sense of community.

“Our goal as Campus Ministry is to provide a space for those students who come from Spanish-speaking homes where they can live their faith and create community. In other words, to live out the Mass. The goal is to deepen our faith but also to experience the food and flavors of countries other than our own. Sharing at the table is where the banquet of life begins, where the dishes are filled with love, and where food, more than being a daily sustenance, is the connection of the heart,” said UD Hispanic/Latinx Campus Minister Andres Lopez.

At St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, students dedicate themselves to the pillar of almsgiving with a 40 Days of Lent and Service initiative that offers a diverse range of opportunities for campus community members to connect and volunteer with nonprofits.

You are invited to continue the pilgrimage of hope and join several events, activities, and reflections available across our Marianist family.

Lent is the perfect time to seek spiritual renewal and hold onto hope! Look to and lean on Mary for strength and guidance.

May the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit be glorified in all places through the Immaculate Virgin Mary. Amen.

Purcell Marian High School (OH) Ash Wednesday
St. John Vianney High School (MO) 3 O'Clock Prayer
St. Mary's University (TX) 40 Days of Lent and Service photo by Arely Reyes

Click here for Lenten meditations from the North American Center for Marianist Studies.

Click here for reflections offered by the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative.

Click here for an Ecological Lenten Calendar.

Click here for activities offered by University of Dayton, some of which are livestreamed for all to participate.

Click here for more pictures of Lenten activities across our Marianist Family.

In The News

Teaching Today’s Students – Funding Tomorrow’s Success

Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis has established a groundbreaking initiative that empowers students to delve into the world of finance through hands-on investment experiences. The Hilltop Capital Fund program is the first of its kind in St. Louis, providing high school students with the opportunity to research, analyze, and invest in real stocks using real capital.

The Hilltop Capital Fund is made possible by the generous support of an anonymous donor who gifted the school $250,000 to start the fund. Chaminade College Preparatory School is grateful for this support!

Click here to read more.

Lawyer Follows Calling to Marianists

As a young criminal lawyer in his home state of Querétaro, Mexico, Guillermo “Memo” Peña Contreras never gave priesthood much thought until he was introduced to a Marianist priest who invited him to his chapel.

“It was during Holy Week of 2019 when I decided to join the Marianist brothers,” said Contreras. Since then, he has learned English in San Antonio and started his 20-month journey as a Marianist Novice in Dayton, OH. When the time came to be given a ministry during the second year of his Novitiate, his directors had the perfect assignment.

“They said, ‘What do you think about going back to San Antonio and working in the law school?’ and I was excited,” he said.

He began serving in the Legal Services Area of the Multi-Assistance Center at Morgan’s Wonderland, using his knowledge of the law to offer translation services to individuals with disabilities. One of the attorneys he met invited him to an eviction court to help also translate for the San Antonio Legal Services Association. From there, he worked with Haven for Hope, the YWCA and American Gateways. “Sometimes they share a bit of their story, so I help in a legal sense but also in a spiritual and human sense,” Contreras said.

Memo is currently in Dayton, preparing to profess his first vows and become a Temporary Professed Marianist. After he completes three years of temporary profession, he can then request to take perpetual vows. Please pray for him in his mission to assist Mary in bringing Christ to the world. Click here to read more.

World Day of Consecrated Life

World Day of Consecrated Life was celebrated on Feb. 2, which coincides with the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord. In 1997, Pope Saint John Paul II instituted a day of prayer for women and men in consecrated life.

It’s also a significant day in Marianist history. In 1801, the first 12 members of the Bordeaux Sodality committed to forming the first Marianist Lay community. These earliest Lay Marianists professed their Act of Consecration and named their community “Congregation of the Immaculate Conception.”

Please continue to pray for all those who have made commitments in the consecrated life. May they be inspired by Jesus Christ and respond generously to God’s gift of their vocation.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Engagement Through Art

At the request of Marianist leaders in Rome, the mission to promote Marianist Causes took shape through artistic posters. Since first being produced and distributed last fall, you can find them adorning walls across the country.

Marianist Retreat & Conference Center

At the Marianist Retreat & Conference Center in St. Louis, volunteers created a space near the front door dedicated to showcasing the Marianist Causes.

The Novitiate Community in Dayton, OH, has the poster displayed in its living room.

Marianist Student Communities at UD

The Marianist Student Communities (MSC) at University of Dayton proudly posed for a picture to show where students prominently placed the artwork in one of their homes.

If you would like your own printable poster, you can find a digital copy by clicking here for our Marianist Causes media kit.

These posters popping up in the United States aren’t the only creative way Marianists are engaging people. Emmanuel College, a Catholic high school in the Marianist tradition located in Melbourne, Australia, commissioned four Marianist art installations.

Emmanuel College Melbourne, Australia

“As a college community, we think it’s important to have contemporary images of our Marianist Founders around the school to raise awareness, provoke conversation, and stir inspiration leading to faith and moral formation. Whilst in the yard, every student and staff member can’t help but see the amazing mural of the three founders. In these moments, they know we are part of something bigger – we are part of this two-century-old community, guided by Mary, to be world changers,” said Mark Sciberras, deputy principal-mission integration.

Just as the posters were created by a collaboration of theology and art teachers at Marianist schools, the artist of the murals in Australia, Daniel Taylor, is also a teacher at Emmanuel College. Click here to see more mural pictures.

A Marianist Moment

Marianist Women’s Summit and FMI (USA) 75th Anniversary

Save the date! The Marianist Sisters invite you to a “Marianist Women’s Summit” and the celebration of the 75th anniversary of its USA Foundation from Oct. 25-26 in San Antonio. The summit will provide an opportunity for lay and vowed women in the Marianist Family to visit, pray, and converse about Mary’s Magnificat call in our lives.

The event will take place at the Marianist Sisters’ Our Lady of the Pillar Community on Friday and at St. Mary’s University School of Law on Saturday. On Saturday, at 4:00 p.m., the Marianist Women’s Summit participants will join the wider Marianist Family and guests to celebrate the 75th Anniversary Mass, which will be held in The Blessed Adele Chapel at Central Catholic High School. Following Mass, there will be a social, meal, and presentation.

From the Archives

A Song for Africa

There is a special “archive” this month as Bro. Jack Somerville highlights his time in Africa in the 1980s. Bro. Jack wrote and created A Song for Africa while living in Zambia (1985-1986). Click the image below to hear his plea to share with him “a world that is simple and free” as you view images from his mission.

If you’d like to see images from the archives, visit and “like” this Facebook page.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Good to Know

Art Sale Success

Lay Marianist Michele Devitt

The art sale at Gallery Saint John was a success! A big thank-you to Lay Marianist Michele Devitt who volunteered her time organizing and managing the sale. She reports that 75% of the art at the gallery has been sold. It included works from  Bro. Joe Barrish, Bro. Don Smith, Bro. John Lemker, Bro. Charlie Wanda,  Fr. Mike Nartker,  Bro. Louis Fournier and Bro. Gary Marcinowski.

The gallery will officially close on March 1, 2024, with the remaining artwork moving to the Marianist Creativity Center located at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio.  A Mass to honor and celebrate all involved is being planned for April.

Looking for a Spiritual Summer Adventure?

Explore the opportunities offered at the Marianist Family Retreat Center in Cape May Point, NJ.

Retreat weeks start each Monday, beginning June 24 through Aug. 17. While single-parent families are always welcome, the week of July 15-20 is specifically designated for single parents.

Join together with other families for the week. Mass and other family liturgies are complemented by skits, presentations, family sharing, peer group discussions, sunset beach walks, and other fun activities.

Scheduled recreation and free time (4-5 hours daily), with ocean swimming (the beach is a 1/2 block away), are part of all family retreats. The cost includes meals, room, program, beach access, and more!

Click here for more information or email: [email protected] or call 609-884-3829 – financial aid is available.

Beyond the Byline With Bombeck

Did you know the trailblazing humor writer, bestselling author, and syndicated columnist Erma Bombeck was a proud University of Dayton (UD) student?

A new exhibit in the UD Roesch Library celebrates the multifaceted life and legacy of Bombeck (1927–1996). “Beyond the Byline: Erma Bombeck’s Story” will be on display from Feb. 1 through June 15 in the Stuart and Mimi Rose Gallery in Roesch Library. It will feature Bombeck’s original manuscripts, columns, handwritten notes, speeches, articles, photographs, and memorabilia from her personal collection, which was donated by the Bombeck family to the UD Archives in December 2020.

Bombeck’s daughter, Betsy Bombeck, will also keynote an Erma Bombeck Writing Competition Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, April 3.

Click here for more information on the exhibit, ceremony, and an array of Bombeck events, or email [email protected]. You can also subscribe to the Erma Bombeck newsletter.

Join Us!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

•  Marianist Province of the U.S. (MO) – Digital Communications Marketing Coordinator

• Director Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning (OH) – Executive Director

• St. John Vianney High School (MO) – President

• Marianist Retreat & Conference Center (MO) – Director of Hospitality

• Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Asst. Principal, and Director of Advancement

• North American Center for Marianist Studies (OH) – Program Administrator

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina  from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #78 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

    

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Marianist University Students SEEK the Light

When Pope St. John Paul II visited St. Louis in 1999 for a pastoral visit, he told a gathering of young people, “You are children of the light! You belong to Christ, and he has called you by name.”

Twenty-five years later, nearly 20,000 participants converged on St. Louis at the America Center’s Convention Complex for SEEK24, a five-day conference held Jan. 1–5, where they were called to  “Be the Light,” the theme of this year’s event.

Many attend the annual SEEK conference, looking to find other Catholics like themselves. Anna Steck, a St. Mary’s University sophomore, was excited to “meet students from University of Dayton who share the Marianist Charism and to interact with vowed Marianists from St. Louis and Ohio,” she said. Seven students from St. Mary’s and more than 20 from UD attended the conference.

For Ben Bischoff, a sophomore at University of Dayton, the conference  has motivated him: “If I truly love Christ and experience such joy like I did at SEEK, what is stopping me from sharing this with everyone on my campus?”

A highlight of the event for both Bischoff and Steck happened midway through the conference when college students, seminarians, priests, and religious shared the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. “Seeing thousands of people brought together with a common mission – our shared love of the faith – was encouraging and beautiful,” said Steck.

Brothers at the Maryland Avenue Community and  Pillar/Chaminade Community in St. Louis hosted the students, making it financially feasible for more to attend. Marianist Sr. Emily Sandoval, Bros. Leno Ceballos, and Jack Somerville accompanied them to many of the events. Others were on hand to answer questions and provide support, including Fr. George Cerniglia, Bros. Mark Motz, Bill Campbell, Bob Metzger, Jim Eppy, Richard Schrader, and lay leaders Jen Duncan and Paul Masek.

Reflecting on his time at SEEK, Bischoff said, “There are so many college students across the country who don’t know Christ.” His challenge is straightforward: “Pray for all college students and all who support these students.” Looking at the present, he is hopeful and energized. “The Church is in good hands. But we need to allow God to transform us and give us the grace to do His will.”

In The News

University of Dayton Libraries Win Award 

University of Dayton (UD) Libraries won a national award for commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) from Insight Into Diversity magazine. The 2024 Library Excellence in Access and Diversity (LEAD) Award honors libraries’ programs and initiatives that encourage and support DEI across campus and in the community. UD was selected for its Libraries’ work to implement its strategic DEI plan, which involves its workforce, collections, programming, exhibits, and physical and virtual spaces.

University Libraries will be featured alongside 55 recipients in the March 2024 issue of Insight Into Diversity, the largest and oldest diversity and inclusion publication in higher education. Click here to read more.

Founders Day, Heritage Week, Heritage Month

Marianist-sponsored schools across the United States celebrated their Marianist Heritage throughout January. The month marks the feast days of Founders, Blessed Marie of the Conception (Adèle) de Batz de Trenquelléon on Jan. 10, the day of her passing in 1828 and Blessed William Joseph Chaminade on Jan. 22, the day of his death in 1850.

Founders Day, Jan. 22, honors Chaminade, who founded the Marianist Family in 1801 and the Society of Mary in 1817. As you can see from various Facebook posts highlighted below, our schools celebrated these events in vibrant and varied ways.

Click here for a reflection for the Feast of Blessed William Joseph Chaminade.

Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory School
Archbishop Moeller High School
Chaminade University of Honolulu
St. Mary's University
Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School
Chaminade College Preparatory School St. Louis

Now Accepting PULSE Applications

Marianist PULSE  (Partners in Urban Leadership, Service, and Education) is accepting applications for the 2024-2025 program year on a rolling basis. To request an application, please fill out a brief application request.

Sophia Bair

Current volunteer Sophia Bair is an alum of the University of Dayton and is serving her PULSE commitment at St. Vincent de Paul Shelter for Women and Families. After she completes the program this summer, she plans to attend medical school to become a pediatrician focusing on serving children with housing insecurity.

Want to hear from former participants? Click here to hear from Abby Shahady, Ani Artero, and Dominic Sanfilippo in Episode 34 of Sharing Our Marianist Stories about their journey of discerning, engaging in, and completing a year of service with Marianist PULSE.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Mary’s Role in Catholic Education

They started with various objects: prayer books, Hymnals, and an early 18th-century Book of Hours. Before they were finished, students in the teacher education program at University of Dayton were knee-deep in contemporary comic books and pop-ups.

“They were thrilled to explore this collection of artifacts housed at the Marian Library at UD,” said Jennifer Adams, adjunct professor of teacher education, who led a group of students in curating an exhibit at the library called Mary in Catholic Education.

Since it opened its first school in Bordeaux, France, in 1819, education has been a primary mission of the Marianists, with the Blessed Virgin Mary as an integral component of Marianist education.

By studying the texts and the visual presentations of the library’s collection, “the students were able to engage in lively discussions about the purpose of the books, the explicit and implicit messages conveyed, and who was included in the narrative and who was left out,” said Adams.

The student curators were especially interested in examining cultural and ethnic diversity — or its absence — in these artifacts and what that means for Catholic education today.

“Diversity isn’t just about content,” wrote one of the students in reflecting on the project. “It’s also about how it’s delivered. Some folks might find it easier to understand stories about Mary when they’re presented with colorful images and engaging songs. Others might resonate more with detailed texts and explanations.”

The exhibit explores the many ways people connect with sacred objects and invites viewers to do the same. “It also offers a glimpse into the vast collection at the Marian Library,” said Adams.

Mary in Catholic Education runs from Mar. 4 to June 28, 2024. It is housed on the seventh floor of the Marian Library Gallery in the Roesch Library at UD. The exhibit is free and open to the public.

A Marianist Moment

By Bro. David Betz

Blessed Chaminade and Blessed Marie of the Conception: ILLUMINATORS!

In our Marianist World, January is a time that we celebrate our founders, Blessed William Joseph Chaminade (Jan. 22) and Blessed Marie of the Conception (Adèle) de Batz de Trenquelléon (Jan. 10). They are two individuals that we Marianists hold dear in our hearts because they are the foundation of what we believe in as we continue their legacy in our present communities and works.

As I write this, my mind becomes focused on the question, “What is a founder?” What can we find essential in these two important people in our lives as Marianists? Let us begin with a definition (Miriam-Webster): Founding Father or Mother: one who starts or helps to start an institution or a movement.

In looking at Chaminade and Adèle, they started or helped start, first of all, a movement. They gathered men and women around them in communities to deepen individuals’ faith journeys. Through formation and inviting men and women to intentionally seek ways to find God in their lives, they created a movement under the auspices of Mary to spread the Good News of Jesus Christ. Would you say, then, that Chaminade and Adèle were influencers (a popular term today)?

Influencers may be a good term, but I found another word that may describe Chaminade and Adèle, even better, Illuminators. David Brooks, a commentator from the New York Times, recently wrote a book, How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen, which I just started reading. In his first chapter, he describes Illuminators as the following:

“Illuminators, on the other hand, have a persistent curiosity about other people. They have been trained or have trained themselves in the craft of understanding others. They know what to look for and how to ask the right questions at the right time. They shine the brightness of their care on people and make them feel bigger, deeper, respected, and lit up.” (page 13)

Click here to read more.

From the Archives

Moving Marianist Art

Gallery Saint John is holding a special three-day event Feb. 8-10, 2024. During this time, a wide range of art will be available for purchase. Some of the artists involved in the gallery include Bro. Joe Barrish, Bro. Don Smith, Bro. John Lemker, Bro. Charlie Wanda,  Fr. Mike Nartker,  Bro. Louis Fournier and Bro. Gary Marcinowski.

After more than 34 years of displaying the creative talents of the Marianist Brothers, Gallery Saint John will close on March 1, 2024. The legacy of our artists will move to the “Marianist Creativity Center” located at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX. The Province will continue looking for ways to showcase the brothers’ art and display it on various social media outlets where it can continue to be discovered, preserved, and offer inspiration for future generations.

The Gallery Saint John Art Sale will be held on the following days/times:

Thursday, February 8, 4-8 pm

Friday, February 9, 12-8 pm

Saturday, February 10, 10 am-4 pm

By Bro. Joe Barrish
By Bro. Don Smith
By Bro. John Lemker
By Bro. Charles Wanda
By Fr. Mike Nartker
By Bro. Louis Fournier

If you’d like to see more images from the archives, visit and “like” this Facebook page.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Good to Know

Sign Up For Summer LIFE 2024


The Marianist LIFE (Living In Faith Experience) summer program is a faith-formation experience for high school students and their moderators. Students enjoy an experience of small faith communities, sacraments, prayer, leadership development, social justice education, and fun! Moderators, including campus ministers, youth ministers, teachers and adult volunteers, arrive before the students to prepare and build their own communities of faith. Three sessions are being offered, one in Occidental, CA and two in Dayton, OH, during the months of June and July. Click here for more information.

Spiritus Debut

The Queen of Apostles Community in Dayton celebrated its final Mass on Dec. 31, 2023, due to the parish closing. While members moved to different parishes around Dayton,  some also decided to form a Lay Marianist Community called Spiritus.

“The first gathering of Spiritus took place on Epiphany. We had over 80 people in attendance, and the gathering was a great success with community prayer/reflection, a primer lesson on formation, and a kids program. I’m sure that this will evolve over time, but thanks to the Holy Spirit, the debut of Spiritus was a great success,” exclaimed Matt Naveau, a leadership team member of Spiritus.

Lay Marianists represent the oldest branch of the Marianist Family, with roots stretching back to 1801. To learn more about the Marianist Lay Community of North America, visit www.mlcna.org.

Marianist Library Classification System

Bro. Andrew Kosmowski,  Librarian at the North American Center for Marianist Studies (NACMS), recently published an article for Catholic Library World highlighting the Marianist classification system for libraries as a prime example of a system within a Catholic charismatic family. He reflects on NACMS Librarian Teresa Trimboli’s work creating the original Marianist Library classification system and assesses the system’s strengths and challenges. Bro. Andrew hopes the article, titled “Marianist Library Classification: A Case Study,” encourages librarians from different orders to create similar schemas for their congregations. Click here to read the article.

Marian Forum Online Feb. 13

Want to explore Marian Shrines and Catholicism in the United States? All are welcome to attend University of Dayton’s Marian Forum on Feb. 13! It will explore Marian Shrines and U.S. Catholicism with Professors Karen Park and Katherine Dugan, co-editors of American Patroness: Marian Shrines and the Making of U.S. Catholicism.

Visit go.udayton.edu/marianforum to register to attend virtually.

Join Us!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

• Marianist Province of U.S. – Office of Sponsorship Director

• Marianist Retreat & Conference Center – Director of Hospitality

• Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Principal, Asst. Principal, and Director of Advancement

• Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning (OH)– Front Desk Receptionist

• North American Center for Marianist Studies (OH) – Program Administrator

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina  from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #78 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

    

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Beauty and the Birth of Jesus

Edwin and Serena Henderson check off items in a scavenger hunt
Cub Scout Troop explores nativities of the world
Miles Harris, age six, admiring a unique nativity scene

When Brian Showalter heard about Nativities and the Natural World, University of Dayton’s annual Christmas exhibit at the Roesch Library with more than 100 nativity scenes from 31 countries, he knew it was the perfect activity for his second-grade Cub Scout troop.

“I try to make scouting about experiencing new and different things,” he said. “The exhibit was an excellent opportunity for the boys to see how different cultures from around the world celebrate and express reverence for the birth of Jesus.”

Rachel Henderson, a mother of one of the cub scouts, helped chaperone the group and brought her two older children along for the experience. “I wanted to share with them the beauty of art and the birth of Jesus at the same time,” she said.

And what did the boys enjoy the most? “The Scouts loved the scavenger hunt, an activity that had them searching for a specific item in each exhibit,” said Showalter, who is from Centerville, OH. “This gave them a chance to examine each display and observe differences that might not be obvious at first glance.”

Showalter and Henderson were both amazed by the creativity and materials used to make the nativities, “everything from clay to wood to paper,” said Showalter.

Kerri Haynes, a religion teacher at St. Luke School in Dayton, decided to bring her 3rd-grade students to the exhibit. “They enjoyed seeing all of the manger scenes from around the world and especially loved making paper poinsettia ornaments and coloring nativity cards to bring home to their families.”

For Haynes, this was also an opportunity to celebrate the 800th anniversary of nativity scenes, which started in 1223 when St. Francis of Assisi began the tradition to highlight the birth of Jesus and the significance of the Incarnation. “This is a beautiful exhibit,” said Haynes, “with something for children and adults to enjoy together.”

Henderson agreed. “I wanted my children to see how God can inspire people to do beautiful things. Most uplighting was how the Holy Family has touched people across the globe. It was a great experience for everyone!”

The free nativity exhibit is open in Roesch Library until Jan. 12, 2024. New this year, audio tours are available for each gallery, and family-friendly interactive stations enable visitors to create Christmas ornaments and decorate a Nativity scene Christmas card. Click here for more information.

In The News

Chaminade University Alumna Makes History

The U.S. Senate, in a bipartisan vote, confirmed Shanlyn A.S. Park as a federal judge for the U.S. District Court of Hawaii.

Born in Honolulu, Shanlyn received her Bachelor of Arts, cum laude, from Chaminade University of Honolulu in 1991.

Judge Park spent most of her career as a federal public defender in Hawaii and will now move to a lifetime appointment on Hawaii’s federal bench. Judge Park is the first Native Hawaiian woman federal judge in the state. Click here to read more.

End of an Era

Thomas M. Mengler and his wife Mona Mengler

St. Mary’s University President Thomas M. Mengler will start a new chapter when he retires on May 31, 2024. For almost 12 years,  Mengler shared his vision of the University’s Catholic and Marianist traditions and educating servant leaders for future generations.

“Tom’s gift to St. Mary’s is his own personal Catholic faith and how he allowed that faith to play itself out in his leadership at St. Mary’s,” said Fr. John Thompson, St. Mary’s Vice President for Mission.

Mengler is the 13th president of St. Mary’s University and only the second layperson to hold the position. Click here to read more.

New President Appointed

Winston Erevelles

Following a national search, the St. Mary’s University Board of Trustees unanimously appointed Winston Erevelles, Ph.D., as the next president of St. Mary’s University, beginning June 1, 2024.

Erevelles is a dedicated St. Mary’s community member who served 12 transformative years as Dean of the School of Science, Engineering and Technology from 2009 to 2021. Since then, he has been working on two new initiatives — the University’s anticipated Nursing Program and creating the three-story Blank Sheppard Innovation Center. Erevelles is also a Professor of Industrial Engineering.

Click here to read more.

New MRCC Executive Director

Jennifer Duncan

The Board of Directors of the Marianist Retreat & Conference Center (MRCC) announced that Jennifer Duncan has been appointed Executive Director. “My goal is to create meaningful connections with our community, to continue to build a network of support to sustain and enhance our building and grounds, and to increase the opportunities that provide the place and programs where people can find peace and deepen their relationship with Christ,” said Duncan. Click here to read more.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Marianist Education Highlighted in Business Journal

Courtesy: JERSTAD PHOTOGRAPHICS LP

From St. Mary’s Southside Catholic High School in MO to St. Mary’s University in TX to the San Antonio Business Journal pages, Andrew Tague credits his Marianist education for helping him succeed in life and business.

“The Marianist Leadership Program was the first building block that started the foundation of who I am today,” Tague said. “It gave me the opportunity to start living out my vocation. I realized that it was time to be me.”

Tague, who received his Bachelor of Business Administration from St. Mary’s University in 2023, secured a full-time job almost a year before graduating and earned the President’s Award for academic excellence and transformative leadership at St. Mary’s. He also started his own side business while a student, a vintage T-shirt shop called Tague’s Treasures. Two years later, his shop remains popular with students.

“He lives out the Marianist values every day, and I have no doubt he’ll be able to achieve all of his professional endeavors,” said Violeta Díaz, Ph.D., associate dean of the Greehey School of Business and associate professor of finance at St. Mary’s University. Click here to read more.

From the Archives

Christmas Cards from the Archives

We thought you might enjoy taking a look at Christmas cards and artwork either created by Marianist brothers or sent to them through the years. As you may notice, the printing quality may now have a higher resolution, but the sentiment remains the same. The Provincial Council hopes your holidays continue to be blessed. Click here to see more.

Card from Milan, Italy, 1934
Mother & Child drawing 1990 by Bro. Mel Meyer, SM (1928 - 2013)
A card from Maryhurst (Kirkwood, MO) and Mount St. John (Dayton, OH), date unknown
New Year postcard mailed from San Francisco to “Brother Henry" at St. Louis College, Honolulu, HI, 1910
Flight into Egypt by Bro. James Roberts, SM (1931-2007) for the former Pacific Province, 1971
Date and origin unknown
Christmas card for the former Pacific Province by Bro. James Roberts, SM (1931-2007), date unknown

If you’d like to see more images from the archives, visit and “like” this Facebook page.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Good to Know

60 Years of Christmas on Campus

The University of Dayton celebrated its 60th Christmas on Campus on Dec. 8, with more than 1,000 Dayton Public School students paired with undergraduates to enjoy a winter wonderland.

The event was free and open to the public and included pictures with Santa, a live Nativity, crafts, model trains, treats, and more.

“Christmas on Campus is our opportunity to celebrate the true spirit of Christmas with everyone — most of all the Dayton children,” said co-chair Fiona Dusenberry. “It’s a tradition that brings to life UD’s Catholic and Marianist heritage and the value we place on community.”

The tradition of celebrating Christmas and the Feast of the Immaculate Conception dates back to 1964 when a group of students gathered and decided to celebrate Christmas before they left for the holidays. With that, Christmas on Campus was born. Click here to see more pictures.

Mission of Mary Receives Award

The Montgomery County Commissioners in Ohio awarded the Mission of Mary’s executive director, Mike Schulz, the Food Champion ‘Education’ Award at the 13th annual Montgomery County Food Summit. This honor was bestowed upon Schulz for his 16 years of service and labor of love at Mission of Mary Cooperative. 

“I see this award as a team award for the Mission of Mary family for the amazing board, team, partners, donors, and countless volunteers who have generously given and continue to show up every day and year to humbly serve,” said Schulz. Click here to read more.

Join Us!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

• Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Principal

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Assistant Principal

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Director of Advancement

• Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning (OH)– Front Desk Receptionist

• North American Center for Marianist Studies (OH) – Program Administrator

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina  from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #74 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

    

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Table of Life & Faith

The hope is you retain the grace of gratitude long after the Thanksgiving leftovers are gobbled and gone. Sometimes, that’s easier said than done. The hustle and bustle of the upcoming Christmas season with elves on shelves can challenge the patience of many parents; in contrast, the silent nights of those missing loved ones can leave them struggling in perceived solitude.

To compound matters, today’s society seems wrought with division fueled by social media – political persuasion, religious affiliation, thoughts on immigration, and the list goes on. Gratitude can become so forgotten that simply serving canned, not fresh, cranberries can lead to an argument.

But what if you set the table with the intention to feed your soul as well as your body? Setting the Marianist Table is a process that, through symbolism, helps transform an ordinary task into a spiritual opportunity.

“It gives us a chance to step out of our busy lives and enter into a gentle, reflective mindset. Each symbol has meaning, and it’s nice to see the everyday items of our lives given a symbolic purpose. After experiencing the Table Setting,  I hope parents and children gather around to discuss what is on the table that reminds them of the Marianist Family. I think the ceremony represents the Marianist Family quite well, and the concept easily transfers into other cultures, too,” said Bro. Michael Sullivan, who helped create a video of the experience.

What exactly is this special table setting? It is the mindfulness of what a centerpiece, silverware, plates, even napkins and condiments bring to the table. Each item can hold different meanings for individuals; the key is slowing down to reflect on their significance. “I find the ceremony to be a calming event that helps relieve some anxiety while inspiring hope and instilling a sense of peacefulness,” explained Bro. Michael.

“I have seen people be very touched by the experience in the moment and have come away with a deeper understanding of the Marianist way,” added George Lisjak, Director of the North American Center for Marianist Studies (NACMS).

The Marianist Mission created a booklet to walk you through the steps. NACMS also offers resources and talking points on this topic, which Lisjak reports are some of their most requested, distributing about 100 copies a year.

The aim is to make family spirit the distinctive mark of Marianist communities, growing in the characteristics of Mary, particularly her faith, humility, simplicity, and hospitality. “Family spirit is reflected in hospitality, but it goes beyond polite social norms to say, ‘You are welcome. You are appreciated. You belong here.’ Everyone can benefit from feeling valued and from genuinely recognizing the value of others. Setting a Marianist Table conveys these deeper meanings,” stated Lisak.

In The News

Congratulations, Fr. José Luis!

Fr. José Luis González Molina was ordained during Mass at Parroquia San Francisco Galileo in El Pueblito, Querétaro, Mexico, on Nov. 18, 2023.

Family, friends, and members of the Marianist community attended the ordination Mass, including the following from the Marianist Province of the U.S., Fr. Oscar Vasquez, Provincial, Assistant Provincial of the Office of Religious Life Fr. Tim Kenney, and Chaplain of Comunidad Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe Fr. Quentin Hakenewerth, along with Bros. Larry McBride, Francisco Gonzalez, Paco Gomes, Ed Longbottom and Fr. James Schimelpfening.

At the end of the Holy Mass, Fr. Jose Luis told the congregation, “I am thankful to God for the gift of life, my parents for the gift of faith, the vowed Marianists for welcoming me and helping me grow and to the Marianist Family for the love and support these many years.” He also said he’s looking forward to learning and living what it means to be a Marianist priest.

Click here for a video of the ordination. Click here for pictures from the Mass. Read more.

Queen of Apostles Parish Last Mass

From a Marianist community of student brothers that was always open to visitors for Sunday Eucharist, the Queen of Apostles Community in Dayton, OH, emerged as a non-territorial parish on Aug. 28, 1973. After 50 years of celebrating Sunday Mass, the parish will close due to a lack of personnel.

As a Province, we are proud of the Lay Community that has emerged. Throughout these 50 years, Marianist priests and brothers, along with enthusiastic lay persons, have touched thousands of lives not only through the Sunday Masses but through many baptisms, first communions, and weddings which has fostered a vibrant community. A Mass of Completion will take place on December 17 with the vowed Marianists, and a closing Mass will take place on Dec. 31, 2023.

Fr. Chaminade taught that “new methods for new times” are needed, and some of the people of the Queen of Apostles parish will create a new Marianist Lay Community to be formally established and operational in Jan. 2024.

Honoring Our Veterans

St. Mary’s University and University of Dayton saluted veterans in special ways for Veterans Day. It’s a day to honor the patriotism, service, and sacrifice of the men and women who are serving or have served in the U.S. military. The holiday is rooted in history. It was on the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th month in 1918 — that the cease-fire agreement took effect ending World War I.

At University of Dayton (UD), Fr. John Klobuka presided at a Mass in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception to honor all U.S. military veterans, especially those who are UD alumni and Marianist Brothers. Of the 24 known veterans buried on the UD campus or at Queen of Heaven Cemetery, some served as chaplains, while others served before becoming Marianists or were drafted. They were not just faithful to God; they were faithful to the nation and served in defense of the Constitution and for a free world. Click here for a video recording of the Mass.

ROTC cadets at St. Mary’s University, as seen in the pictures, held an outside wreath-laying ceremony honoring those dedicated to serving our nation, with Fr. James Tobin giving his thanks to a special veteran. The Rattler Battalion Color Guard participated in five Veteran’s Day ceremonies.

Pep Band Awarded Stan Musial Award on CBS

The University of Dayton Flyer Pep Band was honored as a 2023 Stan Musial Award recipient in a ceremony Nov. 18 at Stifel Theatre in St. Louis, MO. It will be nationally broadcast Sunday, Dec. 24, on CBS.

Named for Baseball Hall of Famer Stan Musial, the Musial Awards recognize the year’s greatest moments of sportsmanship and those in sports who embody class and character. The Flyer Pep Band was selected for their actions during the 2023 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, when they stepped in to play for Fairleigh Dickinson University.

“You can be recognized for being an outstanding musical ensemble or player, but there are very few acknowledgements of a person or organization’s character,” said Willie Morris, director of the Flyer Pep Band.

Click here to read more.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Radiate Joy – Inspire Youth

William Joseph Chaminade, Founder of the Marianist Family, was beatified by St. John Paul II on Sept. 3, 2000.

Campus Ministers from Chaminade College Prep, St. Mary’s South Side Catholic, and St. John Vianney high schools talk about connecting with youth over dinner with Brothers in St. Louis, MO, on Oct. 25, 2023

In his beatification homily, the Pope cited Chaminade’s “innovative” ways of attracting those especially far from the Church.

It is worth quoting the following paragraph from the Pope’s beatification homily.

“Father Chaminade’s love for Christ, in keeping with the French School of Spirituality, spurred him to pursue his tireless work by founding spiritual families in a troubled period of France’s religious history. His filial attachment to Mary maintained his inner peace on all occasions, helping him to do Christ’s will. His concern for human, moral, and religious education calls the entire Church to renew her attention to young people, who need both teachers and witnesses in order to turn to the Lord and take their part in the Church’s mission.”

The hope is to reach young adults through Campus Ministry, Marianist educators, vocations, conversations, and role models in the Lay Marianist community. It is a privileged priority for the Marianist Family.

Fr. James Heft, author of Empty Churches: Non-Affiliation in America,  encourages Catholic communities to foster spiritual experiences that go beyond abstract ideas. In a speech on this topic last year, he noted, “Some of you worry yourselves to death about your grandchildren, whether they’ve been baptized. I would say don’t be so worried, but radiate some joy and some beauty. That’s going to draw them more than anything else.”

Want to invite someone into the Marianist Family?

Marianist Spirit is an online introduction to the Marianist Family, the experience of Marianist Lay communities, spirituality, and mission in the Church and world. No experience is necessary. Sessions are every other Tuesday from 6-7:15 p.m. CT beginning Jan. 9 until April 30, 2024. Visit mlcna.org/spirit to learn more and sign up.

From the Archives

Marianist Artist Rediscovered

Bro. Aloysius Kreipl was born Aug. 25, 1883, in Schindlau, Bohemia (Czech Republic), and died Dec 2, 1960, in Marcy, NY, at 78. He taught drawing at Marianist schools and wrote nature and devotional poems, creating many works of art now at the National Archives of the Marianist Province of the United States.

The religious life of Bro. Aloysius took him to Ohio, Texas, California, New York, Philadelphia,  and Washington, DC, with his work reflecting his travels.

Article about Bro. Aloysius Kreipl in the Utica Daily Press on January 11, 1952
Bro. Aloysius Kreipl “Nazareth” (University of Dayton), pencil drawing Feb. 1914
Bro. Aloysius Kreipl “Nazareth” (University of Dayton) watercolor
Bro. Aloysius Kreipl taken July 1913 at age 30

If you’d like to see more images from the archives, visit and “like” this Facebook page.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Good to Know

Free exhibit explores Nativities and the Natural World

The University of Dayton’s annual Christmas exhibit explores the plants and animals that artists use in Nativity scenes when telling the story of Jesus’ birth.

“We invite the community to see how Christmas connects to the natural world in which Christ was born with highlights in our collection that show Nativity sets made with gourds, mother-of-pearl, beeswax and more,” said Kayla Harris, Marian Library director.

The free exhibit is open in Roesch Library until Jan. 12, 2024. More information is available online at go.udayton.edu/christmas-exhibit.

New this year, audio tours are available for each gallery. Family-friendly interactive stations also allow visitors to create a poinsettia ornament and decorate a Nativity scene Christmas card with animals of their choice.

Applications Being Accepted

The Marian Library and the International Marian Research Institute at  University of Dayton are accepting applications for short-term fellowships to support research and artistic creation using collection and expertise from the organizations. Applications for a visiting scholar fellowship and graduate student fellowship are open through Jan. 15, 2024. More information is available online. The program is supported in part by a gift from the Marianist Province of the United States.

ALIVE Magazine – Fall Edition

The new fall edition of ALIVE magazine is now available.

Inside, you will find stories like how faithful donor Mary Kay Fitzpatrick has stitched together a lifetime of service to the Marianist Charism and how a school, closed for more than 50 years, continues to benefit a Marianist high school.

Click here to read those stories and more in the digital version.

Join Us!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Principal

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Assistant Principal

• Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning (OH)– Front Desk Receptionist

• North American Center for Marianist Studies (OH) – Program Administrator

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Director of Advancement

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina  from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #74 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

    

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Teaching Transcends Borders and Time

A creative seed planted by Bro. Bob Resing in 1970 has today blossomed into a flourishing art curriculum and a new building named after him in Australia. Bro. Bob received a letter this summer from Emmanuel College, a Catholic high school in the Marianist tradition located in Melbourne, where he once taught.

He was floored. Not only would his name be emblazoned on the building, but they flew him to Aussieland in October for a special dedication and blessing ceremony. “I was blown away,” he said, having never fully realized the impact of his presence and influence at the school.

Bro. Bob first arrived in Australia in the 70s to teach art at St. Paul’s College, an all-boys school that is now a part of Emmanuel College. “I was an inexperienced 24-year-old fresh out of the Marianist Scholasticate,” recalled Bro. Bob.

Living and teaching in the land down under for the next 17 years left an indelible impression. “I loved just about everything – the people, the place, the multicultural makeup of the students,” he said. “I loved the flora, the fauna, the nearness to the ocean, the newness of the country, the laidback manner of the people, and Australian football. My time there was a wonderful gift from God.”

St. Paul’s students, faculty, and families mutually shared that gift. “Bro. Bob’s creative presence as a member and leader of the art program played a central role in developing and diversifying our art curriculum,” said Mark Sciberras, deputy principal-mission integration at St. Paul’s.

He was also a catalyst for expanding the school’s commitment to artistic creativity by working closely with architects on a new arts building at St. Paul’s in 1979. He served as chief consultant in creating Our Lady’s Chapel, where he designed the stained glass windows that adorn the sacred space.

Those who worked closely by his side in those years claim it was his “warm, sometimes cheeky smile, and his humility, kindness, and respect for others” that drew people to him and cemented long-lasting friendships, said Sciberras. “As part of his legacy, with strong Marianist foundations, Bro. Bob helped Emmanuel College grow into the increasingly imaginative and inclusive community that we are today.”

Bro. Bob currently works at the Marianist Province of the U.S. office in St. Louis, MO, and continues cultivating art, making handcrafted jewelry. Click here to explore his designs and inquire about his pieces.

Click here for more photos from the dedication ceremony.

Click here for a video honoring Bro. Bob and his contributions to the college.

In The News

Marianist World Day of Prayer 

Marianist World Day of Prayer on, October 15, focused this year on Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto at Mount Saint John in Dayton, OH.

Staff at the North American Center for Marianist Studies (NACMS) produced a prayer booklet for the occasion, and the International Marian Research Institute contributed an interesting Mary food fact.

Did you know the hazelnut chocolate Ferrero Rocher was created to honor the Virgin Mary and a little girl’s miraculous vision of her in Lourdes, France?

Michele Ferrero, the Italian businessman who owned the Ferrero Group and turned it into the global candy corporation behind Nutella, Kinder, and Tic-Tac, was a devout Catholic and made a pilgrimage once a year to Lourdes, according to The Guardian. Executives also claim that every Ferrero plant and office in the world has a statue of the Madonna. Michele Ferror has stated, “The success of Ferrero we owe to Our Lady of Lourdes. Without her, we can do little.” Click here to read more.

Click here to see pictures from Marianist World Day of Prayer celebrations in Kenya and Honolulu.

Lay Community Continues to Grow

From Dayton, OH, to San Antonio, TX, our Marianist Lay Community (MLC) is growing!

MLC Embrace in Dayton, OH

In correlation with the Marianist World Day of Prayer, a group of young adults made their commitment to a new MLC named “Embrace” at the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto at Mount Saint John.

Marian Consecration in the Guadalupe Chapel at St. Mary’s University

The following Sunday in San Antonio, another new Marianist Lay Community made its Consecration to Mary. The St. Mary’s University students have been preparing using Fr. Quentin Hackenewerth’s consecration materials. This is their first step in forming their MLC, with their final commitment scheduled for Sunday, January 21, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. Mass in Assumption Chapel at the university.

Want to become a Lay Marianist, join a new community, or form your own? The Marianist Lay Community of North America is running a formation program from Jan. 9 to June 4, 2024. Sessions will be held virtually.

Click here for more information and an application.

Cultural Exchange Experience

Pope Francis encourages the Church to be a community that takes initiative. In accepting that challenge and utilizing the Marianist understanding of “radical hospitality,” Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory is proud to initiate a cultural exchange experience for two new faculty members.

(L-R) Glen Briones and Ernest San Jose

Junreyglen (Glen) Briones and Ernest San Jose, from the Philippines, have committed to a five-year cultural experience of working and living in the United States. Glen stated that he embarked on this journey because “I was driven by a profound desire for personal and professional growth. I had always been intrigued by venturing into the unknown, particularly American culture, to gain a deeper understanding of the world and learn from its diversity.”

Ernest echoed that sentiment, adding that many fellow Filipinos leave their homeland to help with the financial needs of their families who remain in the Philippines. For him, it’s a spiritual voyage, “we immerse ourselves in kaleidoscopic cultures, each a symphony of existence. Departing home is not a mere farewell but a tender invitation to a grander voyage of heart and spirit.”

Click here to read more in a write-up from Bro. Jack Ventura.

Who Let The Dogs Out?

St. John Vianney High School
Chaminade University Honolulu
St. John Vianney High School
Chaminade University Honolulu

Some of our Marianist schools went to the dogs earlier this month! It was part of Emotional Wellness Month, observed in October, and reminds us to disconnect and take time out for our brain.

According to Healthline, “Interacting with a friendly pet can help reduce blood pressure and improve overall cardiovascular health. It can also release endorphins that can calm, alleviate pain, reduce stress, and improve your overall psychological state.”

At St. John Vianney High School, students snuggled and played with puppies as part of a Wellness Awareness Week. Lucky Chance Rescue provided the puppy therapy. The bonus is that all puppies are available for adoption and were introduced to potential new pet parents.

At Chaminade University of Honolulu, Wellness Week culminated with a “Puppy Love” event, where students had the opportunity to unwind and get some pet therapy from K9 TheraPets of Hawaii.

St. Mary’s University invites therapy dogs to visit campus each semester to help ease students’ stress of midterms and finals and, of course, to receive cuddles.

Want to see more puppy pictures? Click here.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Participants celebrating Mass
Guest Speaker Dr. Steve Neiheisel
Fr. Oscar presiding at Mass
Colleagues connecting in Charism

Charism Conquers Competition

On October 2, 1817, the Society of Mary was formed. It’s a day fondly referred to by many students and supporters as simply Marianist Day! To commemorate it,  the three Marianist-sponsored high schools in St. Louis leave any rivalry on the playing fields and gather for a Mass that has become an annual tradition.

This year,  St. John Vianney High School hosted faculty and staff from Chaminade College Preparatory School St. Louis and St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School to its campus to celebrate Marianist Charism and grow as Marianist educators.

Dr. Steve Neiheisel, an author, guest speaker, and longtime Catholic educator, encouraged participants to form young men to be men of character. Provincial Fr. Oscar Vasquez thanked attendees for their dedication. “Please know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of all our brothers as you move forward in hope. Blessed Chaminade’s vision to rechristianize our world is in our hands.”

Vianney’s Campus Ministry Director, Grace Burnworth, said that while they may come from different schools in different areas of St. Louis, they are journeying together. “We have a shared mission and were able to discuss similar challenges and triumphs. It was a reminder that as we educate in the formation of faith, we have colleagues beyond the walls of our individual schools. The Marianist family spirit transcends rivalries and provides us with partners in education and faith. “

Fr. Oscar furthered that sentiment, “St. Louis is the only city with three Marianist high schools. This is a blessing and a challenge. The blessing is that we can gather as professionals to share the story and support one another. The challenge is that there is always a natural competition. But that allows us to model for our world that competition (or differences) doesn’t mean we have to be at odds. We can model how to coexist and thrive for the world as long as we keep what is at the foundation in mind. “

A Marianist Moment

By Bro. David Betz

Our Lady of the Pillar and Fr. Chaminade

In October, the Marianist world celebrates an important Marian Feast, Our Lady of the Pillar. The feast commemorates the tradition that Mary appeared to St. James the Greater Apostle in A.D. 40. It is considered the first Marian apparition in recorded Church history and also the only one that occurred while Mary was still alive. It was actually a bilocation since she was living in Jerusalem.

During the early ministry (post-Pentecost) of the Apostles, James traveled to Roman Hispania (modern-day Spain). He was not very successful in his evangelization efforts and was frustrated and discouraged by the lack of conversions in the area. He was sitting on the bank of the Ebro River in Caesaraugusta (modern-day Saragossa) when Mary appeared with thousands of angels surrounding her. Her purpose was to console and encourage James in his ministry. Mary, with the child Jesus in her arms and standing on a pillar, asked James and the other disciples to build a church on the site, promising that “it will stand from that moment until the end of time in order that God may work miracles and wonders through my intercession for all those who place themselves under my patronage.” And so the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar is the first church dedicated to Mary in history and remains standing to this day. (see “Why Our Lady of the Pillar is the patroness of Spain and the Americas,” by Alejandro Bermudez on www.catholicnewsagency.com)

As we know, Blessed Chaminade arrived in Saragossa in 1797 when he was exiled from France during the French Revolution. He and his fellow exiles, no doubt, had feelings of frustration, disappointment and even anger because of their situation. But the fruits of Blessed Chaminade’s prayers before Our Lady of the Pillar can be seen today in the Family of Mary.

Click here to read more.

From the Archives

Marianist Archives On Display

The San Antonio Regional Archivists (SARA) hosted its first-ever bazaar on October 7, 2023, and invited the well-established Marianist Archives to participate. It was an opportunity for area archival repositories and community archives to showcase collections. It was free and open to the public. Participants learned about and explored collection tables, listened to presentations, and enjoyed regional musical entertainment.

Bro. Earl Leistikow, Bro. Del Jorn, and Project Archivist Lisa Finnie ready to answer questions.
Marianist Archives exhibit created by Bro. Brian Zampier
Bro. Brian Zampier and Province Archivist Mary Kenney showcasing the exhibit.

If you’d like to see more images from the archives, visit and “like” this Facebook page.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

Bro. Al Kuntemeier - 1962
Bro. Al Kuntemeier - 2015

Bro. Albert Kuntemeier, 92, died on October 13, 2023, in San Antonio, TX, with 75 years of religious profession.

Bro. Al, born in St. Louis, MO, was a teacher, a counselor, a coach, a chaplain, a tennis player, and a joyful extrovert. Over the course of more than 60 years of ministry, he touched the lives of all those in his orbit with his friendliness, positive spirit, and dedication to the Blessed Mother.

Click here to read more.

Click here to see more pictures.

Bro. James Brown - Date Unknown
brown
Bro. James Brown - 2015

Bro. James Brown, 82, died on October 15, 2023, in Dayton, OH, with 63 years of religious profession.

Bro. Jim, born in Cleveland, OH,  was a teacher, a business manager, a fundraiser, and a storyteller who generously dedicated his life in service to Mary. He was a person of deep faith, gratitude, and prayer whose smile and humor delighted and inspired those who were blessed to know him.

Click here to read more.

Click here to see more pictures.

Bro. Francis Heyer - Date Unknown
Bro. Francis Heyer - 2015

Bro. Francis Heyer, 102, died on October 19, 2023, in San Antonio, TX, with 83 years of religious profession. Bro. Francis was revered as a teacher – one who credited his “mature alliance” with Mary as the reason his own work bore fruit in the classroom. Following his professional career, he planted trees and tended to landscaping around his communities, wanting to provide a welcoming environment for all.

Click here to read more.

Click here to see more pictures.

Fr. Gerald Chinchar - Date Unknown
Fr. Gerald Chinchar - 2015

Fr. Gerald Chinchar, 80, died on October 28, 2023, in San Antonio, TX, with 61 years of religious profession.

His obituary is forthcoming and will be posted here as soon as possible.

Click here to see more pictures.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Good to Know

Women’s Retreat

Women need time to pause, reflect, and be with other women who seek God’s voice in their lives. At Tecaboca, you can find all of that and more.

Tecaboca Women’s Retreats offer time to relax and rejuvenate, make new friends, enliven your faith, and return home with a sense of spiritual inspiration and calm.

This year’s retreat will be held Dec. 1-3 and explore the many types of goodbyes and hellos that we say in our lives. The Tecaboca team, using the book “Praying Our Goodbyes,” will guide you through the healing of  “goodbyes.”

Click here for more information and to register today.

The Best of Quest

Bro. Bob Moriarty is on a quest—literally and figuratively—and he wants you to join!

In collaboration with the North American Center for Marianist Studies, Bro. Bob has digitized and published The Best of Quest, featuring handpicked material from almost 30 years of the popular Quest publication. The new compilation contains prayers, reflections, and conversation questions based on the Sunday readings from the lectionary for each liturgical year.

Liturgical years A and C are available as free downloads by clicking the corresponding links below. Liturgical year B is still in process.

Liturgical Year A             Liturgical Year C

Volunteers Needed

The Marianist Social Justice Collaborative is looking for volunteers for our Issue & Project Teams. You can volunteer from wherever you are (no specific location required) and with whatever experience you have with the Marianist Family. Read the full volunteer role description here and pursue the next steps by going here: [email protected]

Rise From the Ashes

You may recall the Findlay Street Marianist community in Cincinnati, OH. The community in the Over the Rhine neighborhood was dedicated to living among and serving the poor, working for social justice and offering urban plunge retreats. Unfortunately, a fire and subsequent burst of water pipe forced the brothers to abandon the building in 2007, which has stood empty since.

But, Bro. Bob Donovan reports that reconstruction work has recently begun on the building. There is no indication of who the new tenant might be, but it is suspected it will be turned into apartments. The developer’s adopted motto is “positively transforming communities.”

Findlay Street Marianist Community 2004
Findlay St. Community Fire Damage 2007
Findlay Street Building 2023
Findlay Street Reconstruction 2023

Join Us!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

•The Marianist Province of the United States (MO)– Administrative Assistant

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – President

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Principal

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Assistant Principal

• Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning (OH)– Front Desk Receptionist

• North American Center for Marianist Studies (OH) – Program Administrator

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Director of Advancement

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina  from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #74 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

    

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

NCIS Chaminade — Reality, not TV

It’s not a spinoff of the television series NCIS: Hawai’i. They don’t go around pointing guns at people or detonating bombs. They certainly don’t solve major crimes in an hour. But, five Chaminade University of Honolulu alumni do help keep Hawaii safe.

​​As special agents for the Hawaii Field Office of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS) headquartered at Pearl Harbor Naval Base, Chris Meana ’12, Pia Teves ’85, Tamara Kenessey ’16, Olivia DeQuiroz ’12 and Kay Een ’02 are tasked with monitoring crime, conducting polygraph tests, supporting criminal investigations, providing analytical support, and technical surveillance countermeasures.

“When I attended Chaminade, I was really into my religious classes, and I thought that was my calling,” says Meana, who’s been with NCIS since 2015. “But then I served with the Hawaii National Guard, and I refined my calling, wanting to make an impact in my hometown.”

For DeQuiroz, it was not so much a calling but a necessity that led her to the NCIS Hawaii Field Office. “I needed to pay for college, so I applied for an administrative position,” says the Polygraph Examiner.

Today, she provides counterintelligence, monitoring spies, terrorists, and any matter pertaining to our national security across all military branches. She’s also involved with “Operation Keiki Shield,” which is part of the Hawaii Department of the Attorney General’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

A former electrician with his family’s business, Teves started as a Technical Investigative Specialist (TIS) Agent in 1987 and became a Technical Enforcement Officer in 2014. He is now the sole provider of technical support for the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and technical security for the entire Pacific Command.

“Before there was the internet, I was looking at an actual bulletin board while I was on campus, and I came across this poster that read: Naval Investigative Service  (NIS),  overseas travel, worldwide locations,” recalls Teves. “I had no idea what it was, but it sounded sexy, so I applied.”

A Special Agent since 2020, Kenessey deals with death investigations, child enticement, fraud, arson, and all federal-level investigations that involve criminal and security matters with the Navy.

Kay Een flashes a shaka while in Baghdad, Iraq, circa 2005

Kay Een praises Chaminade for her current position, saying the school’s welcoming atmosphere and experiential learning help her as NCIS’ Chief Diversity and Inclusion Officer.

“Much like my time at Chaminade, I believe there is great value in being surrounded by people with different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives,” says Een, who is now in her 20th year with NCIS. “Being in a place that fosters diversity through inclusion is key to growing an innovative and agile workforce.”

As far as the authenticity of CBS’ popular NCIS franchise, they all agree that the drama doesn’t always get it right. “We have a close relationship with the show and work with them,” Meana says. “They try to stay close to reality but do add their own fictional twist.”

Chris Meana, right, and Kay Een promote NCIS at a recruitment affair
Olivia DeQuiroz administers a mock polygraph test

In The News

Marianist World Day of Prayer 

The World Council of the Marianist Family has declared that this year’s Marianist World Day of Prayer on Sunday, October 15, will be focused on the Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto at Mount Saint John in Dayton, OH. The annual Marianist World Day of Prayer originates from the Lay Branch.

During the 1970s, affiliates in St. Louis, MO, began a prayerful gathering on the Sunday closest to October 12, the feast of Our Lady of the Pillar. This gathering in prayer modeled Father Chaminade’s sacred prayer time in the Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar in Saragossa, Spain. The Provincial at the time, Fr. Quentin Hakenewerth, invited the whole Province of St. Louis to share in this annual prayerful gathering. When Fr. Quentin was elected the General Assistant for Religious Life at the 1981 General Chapter of the Society of Mary, he invited the worldwide Marianist Family to share in the annual gathering.

When Fr. Jose Maria Arnaiz was elected General Assistant for Religious Life in 1991, he began identifying a specific Marian shrine each year as a focal point for the day of prayer. The Marian shrine at Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto on the property of Mount Saint John in Dayton, OH, is the focus this year.

Click here to read more.

Doctor, Founder, and Marianist Brother

A special tribute was made to Bro. Bob Donovan for his founding vision and years of service to the Center for Respite Care in Cincinnati, OH, as it celebrated its 20th anniversary.

After being in private practice for four years, Dr. Donovan entered the Society of Mary and became the Medical Director of the Cincinnati Health Care for the Homeless Program in 1988. He delivered primary care to the homeless on a Mobile Medical Clinic as part of his duties. From this effort, the Center for Respite Care was born.

The Transformation Awards ceremony was a virtual event emceed by WKRC’s medical reporter earlier this month. Click the image to watch.

Latest Podcast Available

Did you know the North American Center for Marianist Studies produces podcasts?

It just wrapped its 29th episode featuring Bro. Jesse O’Neill in a broadcast titled, “What We Gave Them Lives On.”

Want to tune in and take a listen? Click here.

You can find all 29 episodes by clicking here.

The podcast is available on your preferred platform, including its YouTube channel.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Milestone for Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

The Marianist Social Justice Collaborative (MSJC) was formed 25 years ago among the three branches of the Marianist Family (SM, FMI, and the Laity) as a unique place of connection to keep the fires of justice burning.

Since then, MSJC has addressed the signs of the times, focusing on national and international issues such as ending sweatshop labor, caring for our environment, and working to eradicate racism.

Today, more than 80 volunteers advocate and create opportunities for engagement around seven distinct social justice initiatives. The MSJC encourages everyone to participate in its “Next 25 Years of MSJC Visioning” Jamboard. Find the Jamboard here!

You can also join a virtual celebration on Tuesday, October 10, 2023, from 8-9 p.m. (ET). During this virtual event, the MSJC will reflect on its accomplishments over the past 25 years, pray together, have some fun (trivia and prizes!), and spend time envisioning the future. Click here to RSVP.

A Marianist Moment

Marianist Causes Campaign

The Provincial Council’s desire to engage youth in its Marianist Causes has hit the walls of Marianist-sponsored schools, parishes, retreat centers, and ministries across the country.

“Causes are very important to us,” says Provincial Fr. Oscar Vasquez. “We hope and pray in our lifetime that Blessed Chaminade becomes a saint, but there are many other Blesseds as well.”

Marianist Causes are Blesseds whom the pope has beatified after an investigation by the Vatican’s Dicastery for the Causes of Saints — one step from being canonized as a saint.

Last Fall, Fr. Oscar Vasquez invited Dr. Noël Pretila and Ryan  Slattery of Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis and Andrew Shipp of St. John Vianney High School to create a poster with striking visual elements and biographies geared toward young people concerning the Marianist Causes. These Causes include Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, Blessed Maria de la Conception, Blessed Martyrs of Ciudad Real, Blessed Martyrs of Madrid, and Blessed Jakob Gapp.

With the emphasis on presenting eye-catching and interactive visuals for students in 6th to 12th grades, Pretila was amazed at the artistic talent of Ryan Slattery, a 6th-grade, theology teacher.

“When you look closely at the poster, he creatively re-cast the images of the various Marianist Blesseds in what I would best describe as a classy ‘animated’ style that makes these likenesses relatable to the youth,” says Pretila. “We were simply in awe of his work!”

The posters reveal the stories of several Marianist Blesseds, and the team devised the idea of using designated QR codes for each so that students can scan a code on their phone and be directed to a short, engaging write-up on the given Blessed.

“This world needs role models of virtue and faith. While I had heard the names of some of these individuals, I was amazed to learn more about their lives and the risks these people took in order to share the love of Christ,” says Shipp. Adding, “The students like the artwork on the posters, and I am excited to witness them learning more about the Marianist Causes and Charism. “

Click here for our Marianist Causes media kit to read more, get a digital copy of the poster, and explore more resources.

The Marianist Martyrs of Ciudad Real are honored by the Society of Mary on September 18th. The late Bro. Robert Wood (1927-2016) wrote hymns for them in 1999 and updated them in 2007 with the same lyrics but set to a different tune.

Click here to view and download.

From the Archives

Inventor Orville Wright Connected to University of Dayton

Did you know Orville Wright (1871-1948), who, along with his elder brother, Wilbur Wright, invented the world’s first successful airplane, has a degree from the University of Dayton?

On December 19, 1943, he received an honorary doctorate in engineering from the university.

Making the presentation is Fr. John A. Elbert, SM (1895-1966), the
President of the University of Dayton. Looking on is Dr. John J. Craig, the
commencement speaker that day.

If you’d like to see more images from the archives, visit and “like” this Facebook page.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Jubilee Celebrations

Each year, the Society of Mary recognizes brothers and priests who are marking milestones of their first profession of vows or their priestly ordinations. Thank you to our 2023 Jubilarians!

BROTHER JOSEPH MARKEL

50 years of profession

I was born August 3, 1954, in Euclid, OH. I took my first vows on September 8, 1973, in Dayton, OH. I received a BA in English from the University of Dayton and a Master of Science in administration from the University of Notre Dame. For 14 years, I was a high school teacher in Memphis, Kalamazoo, and Cincinnati. I served as the director of operations at Bergamo Center for three years and assistant treasurer for Cincinnati Province for five years. Since then, I have served as the Provincial Assistant for Temporalities.

Click here to read more.

FATHER JAMES HEFT

50 years of ordination

In July of 1961, I left Cleveland on a train destined for Marcy, NY. I thought I wanted to become a Marianist brother and teach high school. Why? Because I saw Marianist brothers who taught me at St. Joseph’s High School. I really admired them and wanted to be like them, more than becoming a medical doctor or a lawyer. It now baffles me why I, and so many others at that time, were willing to make such bold decisions. It also saddens me why so many young people today have such difficulty not just choosing religious life, but even remaining active in the Church. The prophet Bob Dylan was right, “the times are a changin’.”

Click here to read more.

FATHER CHRISTIAN JANSON

50 years of ordination

At heart, I am a teacher. As a pastor, I would fulfill that passion, especially in writing the weekly bulletin message. Marianist educators are both brothers or priests (ordained). I accepted the invitation in the Novitiate to consider ordination. I never lost the desire to learn. After attaining my master’s degree, I continued learning, obtaining various certifications in Clinical Pastoral Education and Mission Orientation, a fellowship at Boston College’s Lonergan Institute, and a certification in Spiritual Direction.

Click here to read more.

BROTHER RÉGULO GARCIA HERNÁNDEZ

25 years of profession

I was born on September 29, 1963, in Veracruz, Mexico. I took First Vows on August 15, 1998, and Perpetual Vows on August 6, 2005, both in Querétaro, Mexico. Currently, I live at Comunidad Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe in Querétaro, where I previously served as the community’s director. I now work as the Administrator at Capilla Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe and Centro de Espiritualidad Marianista, Adela, both in Querétaro, Mexico.

Good to Know

Happy 102 Birthday

Bro. Francis Heyer celebrated his 102nd birthday on September 1.🥳 He is the oldest living member of the Society of Mary. Brothers and sisters in the San Antonio area celebrated with him over the Labor Day weekend. We are grateful to God and Mary for his life and teachings and offer many blessings to him!

Net Points

Bro. Al Kuntemeier with his many winning tennis medals Photograph by Robin Jerstad.

St. Mary’s University Men’s and Women’s tennis teams opened the 2023-24 season with the Brother Al Invitational. It was named for Bro. Al Kuntemeier, who became team chaplain for the Rattlers in 2014.

The tournament featured teams from Our Lady of the Lake, Schreiner, Texas Lutheran, Trinity, and Western New Mexico, in addition to St. Mary’s.

This is the sixth straight season the Rattlers have hosted a fall tournament, but this was the first time the Men’s and Women’s tournaments were run concurrently.

Reminder: Mark Your Calendars

Chaminade University of Honolulu and co-sponsors St. Louis School and the Marianist Center of Hawaiʻi will host a free lecture by Bro. Guy Consolmagno, S.J., titled “God’s Mechanics: How Scientists and Engineers Make Sense of Religion.” The presentation will cover the connection between science, faith, and religion.

Bro. Consolmagno is the Director of the Vatican Observatory and President of the Vatican Observatory Foundation. He earned his undergraduate and masters’ degrees from MIT and a Ph.D. in Planetary Science from the University of Arizona.

WHEN: Sunday, October 8, 2023, 4 p.m. HST

Can’t make it in person? Livestream is available through the Mystical Rose Oratory Facebook page.

Join Us!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist communities and ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – President
• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Assistant Principal

• Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning (OH)– Front Desk Receptionist
• North American Center for Marianist Studies (OH) – Program Administrator
• St. Vincent-St. Mary High School (OH) – Director of Advancement

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina  from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

District Update #74 from the Marianist District of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

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