The Marist family recently came together for a series of joyous celebrations across the Pacific, highlighting their commitment to community, education, and care for the environment.
Celebrations in the Solomons
In the Solomon Islands, Brother Hudson Horoto reported a simple yet meaningful gathering at the Marist Fathers Sector House in Tanagai, Honiara. Marists gathered outside for a heartfelt observation of the Eucharist, where Br Simon Serero proclaimed the Word of God. This occasion was not just a religious observance but a reaffirmation of their shared values and mission.
Br Simon Serero during the Eucharist.
Members of the Marist Family Marist Sisiters and Marist Missionary Sisters with Brothers Epalle Taega and Simon Serero.
Phase 1 of renovations at Laumanasa has been completed, featuring newly built staircases and roofing crafted by skilled carpenters like Jerome Gugumae, a former student from Vanga Point Training Centre in Gizo.
Br Epalle stands next to the newly built staircases, with tiles (balcony) and the supporting roof.
Fiji observes Season of Creation
Meanwhile, in Fiji, a significant event unfolded at the Champagnat Marist Centre for Ecology and Spirituality in Lomeri. This year’s gathering focused on an essential theme: Caring for Mother Earth during the Season of Creation. The event saw participation from all four branches of the Marist Family present in Fiji, along with Champagnat Marist Lay members.
Br John Hazelman, Br Chris Poppellwell and Br Kees van der Weert.
Fr Milikiade, the Provincial of the SM in Oceania, presided over the Mass, emphasising the importance of environmental stewardship in their collective mission. Local leader Joeli welcomed guests with warmth and enthusiasm, setting a positive tone for the day.
Following the Mass, attendees engaged in a symbolic act by sharing citrus seedlings prepared by the communities of Carew Street and CMC Lomeri. Each group received a seedling, reinforcing their commitment to nurturing both their faith and the environment. The celebration continued with creative presentations on the theme "To Hope and Act with Creation," showcasing the innovative spirit of the Marist Family.
The Marist family gathers inside the CMC Lomeri chapel for a group photo.
Sustainability initiatives were also front and center during these celebrations. The installation of solar panels at the CMC Ecology and Spirituality Centre in Lomeri was completed just before the gathering, marking a significant step towards eco-friendly practices within the Marist community.
The SM seminarians with a role play on ecology and the different views of members towards it.
Our fantastic Bridge Builder volunteers Tony Sinkovich and Sara Petruzzella will be returning to Aotearoa - NZ and Australia respectively after their time in Fiji. We thank them for their time; they have truly left a lasting impact through their dedicated service.
Volunteers Tony Sinkovich has returned to Auckland while Sara Petruzzella is returning to Adelaide this weekend. The role of volunteers provide richness to our Marist communities.
Samoa's Old Pupils continue to inspire
In Samoa, the Old Pupils Association generously donated $300,000 to the Samoa Marist Brothers Trust Board to assist with renovations at two Marist schools: St Joseph’s College and Marist Brothers Primary School Mulivai. Additionally, they contributed $5,000 each to local charities such as the Little Sisters of the Poor and Carmelite Sisters, demonstrating their enduring commitment to service.
No celebration in Pasifika is complete without a feast! Brothers Steve Vaea and Karalo Ratuyada joined local worker Meli Bai to prepare traditional outdoor oven dishes - lovos in Fiji and umus in Samoa - showcasing the vibrant culinary culture that brings everyone together.
Brothers Steve Vaea and Karalo Ratuyada joined local worker Meli Bai to prepare yummy traditional food!
PNG celebrated Independence Day!
Cultural celebrations were not overlooked either. In Papua New Guinea, Br John Curry shared photos from an Independence Day celebration at Divine Word University in Madang. In Port Moresby, Brothers Clement, Mark, Dominic, and Francis Marai gathered with local families to commemorate this important national holiday.
PNG Independence Day Celebration at the Divine Word University campus at Madang.
Br Clement, Br Mark, Br Dominic and Mr Francis Marai were joined by Mr Stanley Bakere and his two boys for a simple PNG Independence Day celebration at Port Moresby.
These events reflect not only a commitment to education and community service but also an enduring dedication to environmental stewardship throughout the Pacific region by the Marist family.
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