Pasifika News: Marist Schools Continue to Promote Spiritual Growth and Community Connection in the Pacific

This week, from Bougainville to Fiji, Vanuatu to Samoa, our schools and communities have been engaged in activities that strengthen faith, preserve traditions, and nurture young minds. This edition of the Pasifika News brings you stories of devotion, vocational exploration, festive celebrations, and cultural pride from across our Pasifika Marist family

Our Lady of Fatima Statue Visits Mabiri, Bougainville

The Marist School Community at Mabiri, Bougainville, recently welcomed the statue of Our Lady of Fatima. This event highlights the strong Marian devotional practices common throughout the Pacific region. Br Henry Uguni kindly shared photos of this special occasion.

As October is the Month of the Rosary, we encourage our schools and communities to continue this devotional practice. The Rosary, a simple and reflective prayer, has been a significant element in the lives of our Brothers living and working in the Pacific, helping us contemplate the life of Jesus Christ.

"Come and See" Program for Senior Students in Suva, Fiji

Br Anitelea Fidow organised a "Come and See" program for senior students from Marist Brothers High School in Suva, Fiji. Held at the Brothers' community on Carew Street, four students participated in this enriching experience. The program included prayer sessions, inputs from Brothers Ani and John, sharing, manual work, and gardening activities to mark the Season of Creation.

Br Anitelea with the Come and See participants in front of the Sacred Heart Cathedral in Suva.

St Michel Technical College Celebrates Feast Day

Br Jean Marie reports on the St Michel Feast Day celebration in Luganville, Santo, Vanuatu. The event began with Sunday Eucharist at St Michel Parish church, followed by a festive lunch prepared by parishioners and the school. The day concluded with cultural dances, entertainment, and a traditional kava ceremony.

Marist Brothers Primary School Mulivai, Samoa Showcases Talent and Culture

The senior students' choir from Marist Brothers Primary School Mulivai, Samoa, recently appeared on a local Catholic TV show, demonstrating the natural musical talent of Pacific youth. The school also celebrated a Cultural Day with the theme "Taofi mau lau Aganuu" (Hold firmly to your cultural practices and traditions). School Principal Br Siaosi Ioane and staff members displayed various modern cultural attires, highlighting the vital role Marist Schools play in strengthening young people's Pacific identities.

Br Siaosi Ioane, School Principal (4th from left, front row) with members of his teaching staff at MBPS Mulivai displaying their different modern cultural attire during the school Cultural day presentations.

St Paul’s College, Auckland Embarks on a Meaningful Journey to Samoa

In the spirit of sharing good news, we are excited to announce that St Paul’s College, Auckland, has arrived in Samoa as part of their ‘Malaga’—the Samoan word for travel or journey. This initiative is led by staff member Marty Willets, who has worked to re-establish this important connection following the passing of his former teacher, Br Marcel Hall (RIP), during his time at St Paul’s College many years ago.

This visit serves as a fitting tribute to Brother Marcel and marks the beginning of a new chapter for St Paul’s College in Samoa. Below are some photos from this meaningful occasion, kindly shared by Mr. Glenn Stanbridge, Director of Music at St Paul’s College.

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