IRELAND / SCOTLAND / THE NETHERLANDS / BELGIUM / GERMANY Being Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 1 DECEMBER | 2019 #04 Marist WEST CENTRAL EUROPE

Chairpersons Reflection

As Christmas approaches we may ask where did that year go? We are all busy and anxious about how we can possibly get everything done, with all the many demands on our time and resources. Given the sheer volume of activity we can easily be distracted from the true meaning of Christmas.

We acknowledge the many acts of solidarity that take place in our schools and projects at this time. Let us also reflect on our own journey of Faith this Christmas. As Marists by reflecting on Mary’s journey of faith, we can find inspiration, encouragement and a desire to imitate her for our own distinctive walk with the Lord.

All who heard wondered at what the shepherds told them. But Mary kept all these things, pondering them in her heart’ Luke 2: 18. Let us take some time to ponder like Mary the significance of what we celebrate at Christmas. P.J McGowan. F.M.S. 2 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019

European Marist Solidarity Meeting Mindelheim Germany Oct 16th-19th 2019

Great gathering of representatives from also hope to complete this year, European also visited the CMI project and Bro the five European Provinces to reflect protocols for all European volunteers Michael gave a presentation on the and move forward plans for Marist wherever they work. programme and the plans for the new Solidarity in Europe. We are also working on an Education youth ministry programme. It was also a programme for the promotion of Children great opportunity to build up relationships The Directory for all Marist Projects in Rights and hoping to set up an Observatory with fellow Marists in Europe. I would Europe which will be a useful guide is for Children Rights and establish like to thank to wider Marist community almost complete. We are also adapting procedures to do this at European level. in Mindelheim for their tremendous the Congregation’s Solidarity Framework As you can see we have an ambitious hospitality. Document to a European context. We programme for the next few years. We P.J McGowan

Marist Day Furth 18th October

On Friday, 18.10.2019, "Marist Day" took place for 5th graders for the first time in the school history of the MGF. The aim of this day was to make it possible for the children to experience what it means to be part of our Marist school family.

What is meant by the word "Marist", who was Marcellin Champagnat and what do the five "Marist" values mean? All these questions were explored that day in very different ways. With the support of many colleagues, and the student team - each of whom led a class through the day - and Fr Andreas Krupp - the prior of the local Marist monastery in Furth. Br Heinrich was also methodically moving around to several stations, to help explore the importance of the five Marist Order and the obligation to teach to build a house of cards for each other Marist Values "simplicity", "presence", children and young people and to bring at the station "Love for Work" - but only "love for work", "in the way of Mary" and them closer to the faith in God. with one hand. In doing so, they realized "family spirit". Afterwards, the classes wandered from that in addition to diligence, ambition The day began for all 5th classes together station to station during the following and concentration, above all, teamwork in the refectory, where they learned a lot four lessons, where they got to know one and a real desire for the success of a about the founder of the Marist Order of the five Marist values in more detail. job is necessary. In contrast, they have and our founder Marcellin Champagnat. The respective value was always briefly learned the value of "simplicity" here Important stages in Marcellin's life were presented first, before working with it. they were allowed to paint a mandala addressed as well as the founding of the For example, the students were allowed in the meditation room in a relaxing www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 3

atmosphere. It became more exciting in the monastery church. There they again at the stations for the values were allowed to write or paint a text of "family spirit" and "presence". For or a picture of the most beautiful the value of ‘family spirit’, the children experiences of the Marist Day as a used role-playing games and were able reflection on this day. This "letter" was to present respectful, loving and polite then packed in an envelope, given their behavior - as it should be in a family, name and collected. The aim is to give even in a school family. these students a taste of the journey to The value "presence", which is often L'Hermitage, which will probably take difficult to understand for students, was place in the 11th grade. These should be also brought to them in a playful way. In a a reminder of their start as a member of narrow corridor, they were invited to meet the Marist School family at the MGF. The in three ways: once with lowered head Marist Day 2019 ended with a common without looking each other in the eye, then Marian prayer and the song "Laudate with eye contact and finally with a smile omnes gentes". on the face. Afterwards they were able to Eva Alfranseder write down their own thoughts and feelings Maristen Gymnasium Furth of the situation in a short reflection, then they were invited to exchange these with the classmates. The range was from a feeling of loneliness in the first situation to a feeling of being true and accepted when you are smiled at by your classmate. "In the way of Mary" was again made calmer and more meditative. Gratitude and modesty as two aspects of this value, the children could experience in a walk in silence in the school garden: wonderment in the face of creation, gratitude for life and the world in which we live. To complete the Marist Day together, all 5th grade classes came together

www.maristeu.com 4 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 Marist Week Ireland 2019 I was invited to write an article about our 2019 Marist week and I initially thought ‘Wow! We did so much - how will I get that all into this article?!’, yet sitting down and taking the time to reflect on the events and work we did, I can’t help but smile!

The Moyle Park College Marist Core Team began planning events in September and the important decision of choosing this year’s theme. We welcome all new staff members and ‘less new’ to join our group. It has been a pleasure working with this team of people on events and creating memorable experiences for our community. We chose the theme ‘The Sky’s the limit’ this year linking with the school wide Art Project. The whole school Art project has now become an annual event, inviting everyone from the MPC community to come and be Helpful CMI Volunteers! involved in a collaborative experience, creating an Art piece for the school. a giant hexagonal kite, with each section Based from my trip to the International Youth representing a different parts of our Marist The completed Marist Masterpiece! Gathering ‘Weaving Life’ in Guatemala, I community in MPC. was inspired by the beautiful textile Kites Other annual highlights from this years A huge thanks to all of the Marist that are flown on the Remembrance Day of Marist week include, the inter-school Leaders who were involved with their Ancestors and their deceased loved History and Marist table quiz, daily presentations to the younger year ones. There is such a sense of community reflections over the intercom, tours of the groups about their Trip to L’Hermitage from this event and I wanted to bring this Brothers house hosted by Br Nick where and their role in the Marist Leadership back to Moyle Park College. Together, students learned the History of Moyle programme. The school corridors were with the help of many kind staff, Brothers, Park College, and the Staff Breakfast decorated with positive affirmations Marist lay people and students, we created morning (which is always a treat!). written by the students continuing the

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theme of ‘Sky’s the Limit’, and this CMI Presentation to Students injected the communal spaces with colour and positivity! Ms Doyle and Ms Doonan have put trojan work into running this years leader group and have exciting plans for 2020, focusing on the theme of ‘Family Spirit’. They plan on kicking things off with a Hat and Scarf Appeal for the St Vincent De Paul this Christmas and appreciate all donations! Students had a special opportunity this year to attend a talk from Br Michael and young Marist Lay People from CMI, Mindelheim. Here they learned about work being done across the world and the various Marist projects students are welcome to get involved in. Moyle Park students really benefit from hearing first hand from Marist Lay people and these events allow them to ask questions and feel part of the Marist community. Br Coleman and Junior Students planting seeds of the future!

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On Thursday, we celebrated World Mental Health Day and Junior Students with Br Coleman planted a commemorative tree and installed a new Buddy Bench. This will create a space for all to enjoy for years to come. Encouraging new friendships and a sense of space in the school where the students can take some time to relax and reflect. Our Marist Week events culminated in a special whole-school Mass that was led by the Moyle Park Religion Department and Fr Damian. We were treated to beautiful music from our MPC Choir and Ms Cunningham. This annual event is one filled with a feeling of community and family spirit as we all Setting up our Annual Marist Week Celebration Meal came together to celebrate mass and the work from the week. Speeches from Principal, Ms Cahalane reminded us of the Marist family we are part of and the long lineage of Marist laypeople. An exciting feature of this years mass was a video interviewing Marist students, past pupils, staff and the Marist Brothers. Enormous work went into this video and we are so grateful to everyone involved in creating this digital record of Marist history. Members of the Board of Management, Parents Council, A huge thanks to everyone involved Staff and Brothers shared a meal together in creating such a beautiful event and space to celebrate our Marist Heritage. We couldn’t have pulled off it all without the help of the Core team, our patient caretakers, enthusiastic Marist Leaders and wise Brothers. One may ask why embark on such a week of events on top of school life and exam commitments, but amidst these pressures, it is important to step out, take time and reflect on our mission. These moments of coming together and sharing our talents help to build our Marist community and create a sense of belonging for us all. Marist Week is unique as it energises and refocuses us for the journey ahead. We feel supported by one another in our endeavours as we move forward and feel confident that the sky is truly the limit! Leigh Ellis - Art Teacher Setting up our Annual Marist Week Celebration Meal at Moyle Park College Dublin www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 7 CMI talks at Marist Week Ireland 2019 CMI-Germany, (Collaboration for Mission International), the Marist-Volunteer- Service of the Marists in Mindelheim, has been coordinating international voluntary services for 5 years now. We really liked the recent idea of extending the program for Irish Marists. As former and present volunteers, we were even more excited when we got the chance to present CMI and to inspire the students of Dublin and Athlone. During their Marist week we met pupils in Marian College, Moyle Park and Marist College. Therefore we spent 5 days from Sunday 6th to Thursday 10th with Br PJ, Br Nicholas, Br, Colman and Br Kieran in the Marist community of Clondalkin.

Before the flight I was nervous, mostly we spent hours laughing, chatting and because of the presentation. But it was talking. The spirit in the community is also my first time in Ireland, I had no dynamic, open-minded and generous. I idea about an Irish Secondary school felt accepted as a person without any and I hadn't actively used English for a prejudices or superficial images. On while. However, when we arrived at the our last day I realized that I should have Marist brothers‘ house and had supper never felt unconfident. When I left for my it was such a warm welcome that I could voluntary year to Mexico it was exactly easily forgot any reason to be nervous. the same experience, nervous at the The following day on the way to our beginning but received with an open first presentation in Marian College the heart and friendly people everywhere I excitement came back. But on arrival it went. was taken away by the friendly reception I am very grateful that I could come to similar questions and anxieties about and nice staff and pupils. A lot more Dublin I had a wonderful time and another volunteering abroad to what I had, also relaxed we could first present CMI to Marist experience. Hopefully we will soon coming from a place where taking a year the different classes and later have a be able to welcome some Irish pupils in off before university is not common, conversation in smaller groups with the Mindelheim. but hopefully curiosity and a desire to Marist Leaders. Being apart of the Marist Week in experience something new will sprout At all three schools we met warmhearted Ireland was a much-appreciated blend from the seed we planted. A highlight people and had great conversations of nostalgia, different communities of the trip would be the afternoon we with the students. I enjoyed taking part and cultures, and a look at the future spent with the Brothers in Athlone - in an Irish Marist school day. What of of the Marist world. Walking through sharing memories of South Africa with course made a major contribution to the the corridors of each school was a Brother Eugene, learning Irish blessings affectionate atmosphere was the stay at pleasant reminder of our shared origins (and curses!) from Brother Gerard, and the brothers‘ house. From the beginning and foundations, but also a moment being met with warmth and openness by I felt part of the Marist family. I enjoyed to appreciate each school's ability to Brother Vincent. Overall, from students the conversations and the shared be grow to be unique while still being to faculty to brothers, our young CMI meals. One day we were invited to have part of a global community. I'm sure team was made to feel very comfortable lunch by the Athlone community where that the students we presented to had and welcome.

www.maristeu.com 8 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 Netherlands Project Visit

Westerhelling week 14-17 October 2019 A brief reflection

On Monday the 14.07.2019 seven participants from all over Europe met for 4 days at the Westerhelling house in Nijmegen, Holland: Jaime Feo from Spain, Brother Albert André from Belgium, Antonis Dasyras from Greece, Paul Cummings, Martin Pearson and Alastair Callaghan from Scotland and Renate Hacker from Germany. Brother Jacques Scholte and Conny Stuart invited us to introduce the various Marist Projects in Nijmegen. We have been welcomed with very warm hospitality and got the unique opportunity to receive a practical insight to the amazing work of the employees and project managers of the Marists in the Netherlands. We got an idea about give us competent insights into the way of In the evening we had the chance to the methods of working and during these working and to the origin of each project. listen to each other, we shared thoughts days we were accompanied by the same But meeting and working with Clara, about a planned sabbatical, a child’s 18th basic principle like all supervised in Thomas, Annelieke, André and Jan, birthday, about spinning cups, a moment Nijmegen: Brother Jacques, Conny and Brother of the darkness to the light and last but “To guide the supervised to the deepest Gerard was much more than an not least I learned a lot about the deep being of himself, where he is touched by introduction to their work. It was the meaning of drinking whisky together! the mystery of all life.” possibility for each of us to find stillness Very best thanks to all of you making this We met Clara in “Bibliodrama” and the and a new path back to our own source. week to an unforgettable experience and course “A Year of Spirituality”, Thomas in As a group we met in a very personal and it is wonderful to know, what amazing “An Inner journey” and “House of Stillness”. uniquely deep manner, which none of us opportunities are offered to young people Annelieke in “House of Stillness”, André had expected in advance. I am convinced in the Netherlands. and Jan in “Moria Foundation” and Conny that the collaboration in our Province is and Brother Jacques were always ready to enriched through this experience. Renate Hacker – cmi Mindelheim Reflection The last session the guests were The last few days have renewed my time in silence with other Marists and to asked to write in 10 minutes a confidence that there is a Source which become more aware of the life that wants short letter (or whatsapp message) refreshes and brings life to me. They have to live in me. I return home with much to someone interested in the helped me see again that without regularly gratitude for those who welcomed, fed and experience of the days in Nijmegen. attending to this Source I can tend to force encouraged us and a resolve to make more This is part of the letter Martin life and want life to fit to the script I have time for silence and stillness in my life. wrote: already written. It has been great to spend Martin Pearson - Kinharvie

www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 9 My Marist Leadership Gathering Experience 2019

As somebody who was not baptised, had before. We still do these story times yet attends a catholic secondary school, on our phones as often as we are able I have always had an interest in exploring and I love my circle (and many others I met the depths of Religious expression, I was along the way) and the continued family very intrigued when my school’s Religious spirit which we share. Education department approached me Being back in our school we work better regarding becoming a Marist Leader. as a team and hope to have our first eco I am a pupil from St Joseph’s College - group meeting very soon. We have been a Marist school in Scotland. In engaging helping out at events such as the S1 open in the Marist programme, I had hoped to evening to lend a helping hand. We all get a sense of the community which my value the skills we have brought back school is a part of. This goal has most from our excursion. certainly been achieved through my trip ‘Being Marist’ to me had always just to L’Hermitage. meant that I was from a Marist school - particularly family spirit – really clicked but I realise now that it is so much more When we began discussing the trip with me. Everyone was so considerate than that. It is doing your best to be your to L’Hermitage I was both anxious and did their best to include and help best. Doing what you can to help others and excited. I was excited to see the others. I had never felt so respected and and exude kindness in all possible ways. places where the man that founded my valued in a group setting like this before, I strive to be more Marist in my everyday wonderful school grew up and found his which is what family spirit means to me. life, sometimes it is difficult but I always try calling. I wondered what the atmosphere Along my journey many key moments my best. If it were not for this experience I would be like. Would the people be nice? spoke to me: the walk back from La Valla would not even know what being ‘Marist’ Would people like me? This and many was one of the most beautiful places I really meant to me and for my newfound similar questions spiralled around in my have ever been; seeing Le Rosey where knowledge I am eternally grateful. head like a merry-go round. But my lovely I enjoyed some awful singing with new Many sincere thanks, Sophie Ritchie fellow leaders had reassured me, I was friends and our first night in the recreational St Josephs College Dumfries Scotland ready to go. room where I met some new people whom This experience was truly the best thing I stuck to like glue for the rest of the trip. I have ever been involved in. The people However one moment in particular I will I met accepted me, as I did them. I didn’t hold with me forever. Some of my friends, have to pretend to be someone I wasn’t. new and old, formed a group and we sat It is one of the only times I have ever been on leather armchairs in a very large circle. accepted for everything about me, which It was always a race to get a seat as there is truly a reflection of the Marist Values were so many of us. On our last night the and the sense of belonging which was so circle was smaller and here we shared tangible in L’Hermitage. I never expected stories of us and the crazy things in our to meet so many people from different lives. There was one person in particular places, runs of life and with opinions, who was much better at telling stories; let alone to befriend them. It made me bringing tears of laughter to our eyes. realise that I am blessed to belong to When the time came for us to go back a community through my school who to our rooms however, we asked for an are so lovely and inherently kind. They extension, which was graciously granted. are beyond anything I could have Our story teller told us one last story about fathomed. This is when the Marist Values a cow and quad-bike. I laughed like I never

www.maristeu.com 10 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 Marist Leaders Gathering Hermitage 2019

On September 12th we landed in Lyon opportunity for us to get to know more him into the man he would become. After Airport, France. about the people we would be spending our tour of La Rosey we got back on the There we took a bus trip to the home of the weekend with. After our initial bus and went to La Valla. We decided the Marist brothers, L'Hermitage. introduction we all headed to the social that after our tour we would walk back room where we would spend a big portion to L'Hermitage. While walking back we We arrived in L'Hermitage late in the of our time over the following days. The chatted with the other Marist leaders and afternoon and we were all astounded social room was supplied with snacks and got to know them even better. We were all by the buildings and the scenery. We all drinks over the following days. very tired when we returned but that didn't gathered in the dining room where we Our second day was jam packed with stop us from playing football together. We met or fellow Marist leaders from schools activities along with a trip to many of the had our final tour of L'Hermitage, we then around Ireland and Scotland. It was great significant places, important to Marcellin gathered in the social room and had a to meet others that were striving to reach Champagnat. After breakfast we all got on great night together. the same goals as we are. We were put the bus and travelled to la Rosey, where On the third day we took part in different into groups that we would stay in over the we got a tour of Marcellin’s home and as activities with our groups. Activities such as majority of the weekend. These became well as being introduced to the members Making a Catapult, Building a bridge and our leadership teams and it was a good of Marcellin’s family, who helped shape Building squares in silence. The activities were a great way to get to build and enhance our leadership skills. I personally learned a great deal about myself and I will definitely be implementing these over the course of my time as a Marist leader. We were then given a few hours before we had to go out for dinner that night. We played football and hung out in the social room until the bus was ready to bring us to the restaurant. At the restaurant we had a burger and chips. It was the night of the all Ireland final so every Dubliner was watching it. They were singing all night long after a night to remember for the Dubs. Approaching our last day of the trip we were all dreading going home and parting from our newly made friends. We headed to the dining area for our last breakfast together at L’Hermitage. The trip was a huge success, everyone involved had a great time. Some great friendships that will last a lifetime we’re built. We would all like to thank everyone that made the trip happen, from the Marist brothers, all the teachers and especially Aisling and Alaister who made the trip a delight for everyone involved. Matthew Capacite, Marian College Dublin www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 11 Marist Leader Hermitage Trip

My favourite part of TY so far was the Marist Leaders trip to L ‘Hermitage in France. This event took place from the 12th to the 15th of September. There were six schools there. Three from Scotland as well as three from Ireland. My fellow Marist leaders and I left the school at approximately 10:40 accompanied by Miss Kelly and Miss Doonan . We were driven to Dublin Airport by Peter. We got through security without any major journey to the L Hermitage. I was excited We arrived and were shown into the dining mishaps but minus several liquids that at the thought of meeting other Marist area where some of the other schools had didn't make the 100ml rule (including my leaders from other schools. I was also already arrived. It was a little awkward at suncream). We got onto the plane shortly looking forward to learning more about first and we all set at different tables in our afterwards and arrived in Lyon airport Marcellin Champagnat and the Marist school. Then Aisling said a small welcome from where we took a two hour long bus brotherhood. and began to give us rooms. We then went to a conference room to receive details on what was to happen. On Friday, we were given a tour of the huge collection of buildings. Then we drove to Marcellin's birthplace in La Valla as well as le Rose. We also completed our first leadership activity for which I was chosen as leader. On Saturday we completed different leadership activities and I met some amazing people I will never forget such as Sophie, Fionn, Emma, Morven, Rory and Cian. I also strengthened my relationship with my fellow Moyle Park leaders. On Sunday we said a sad farewell and departed for our different schools. My trip to L’ Hermitage has been one of the best experiences to happen to me. I

www.maristeu.com 12 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 learned so much there from the activities that we completed and the people I met. One of the activities I completed with my Marist Leaders Leadership group called Celtic Crusaders was the Spiderweb. This involved a net strung between two trees with different Gathering Hermitage sized holes at different heights. The aim was to get your entire team of nine people On the Marist trip there were many through. We got seven people through the positive things I experienced - not net without touching the net or using the just me but my whole team too. We same hole twice. Since we had to have a all remember the first day, feeling different leader for each challenge, Joseph scared, shy and frightened in this new was chosen as leader for this one. This atmosphere with new people. But we challenge was great for team building skills clicked so well with them! We learned and greatly strengthened our relationships a lot of things about the values that St as did all the other challenges. After a whole Marcellin Champagnat showed, like day of them saying goodbye was almost love of work, family spirit, the way of too much to bear. It was an unforgettable Mary, simplicity and presence. experience. On the trip we made a lot of good friends I absolutely loved this trip. I learned so that some of us are still keeping in touch with. Some may say because of this trip much more about what it is to be Marist. I they gained more confidence than their previous selves, which is an achievement visited where he was born. I sat at the same because this was the very thing we had said we wanted to improve in before table that he had sat at. I even saw the bed arriving. In the trip we did a lot of leadership activities; our favourite was the spider where he died. I made loads of new friends webs because it was so much fun and needed a lot of communication. At the end and completed activities with them. I also of the day what the trip did was make us a better team. had the time of my life doing it all. True Ayanfe Olowoyo - St Mungos Academy the trip had some bad points and yes the food was different but the idyllic setting and excellent accommodation made up for that. In St Mungo’s our mission has One thing I loved was all the new people I been to ensure the Marist values met. Fellow students and Marist leaders all are recognised and lived out. trying to find their path in life. However one We have achieved this by giving thing I hated was the fact that the trip was so presentations at assemblies, and short. I would have happily stayed there for by raising money and awareness a month and would love to go back again of the importance of mental next year. I learned patience, teamwork, health. leadership and communication skills. On our trip to France we were By Ciaran Kirk, Moyle Park College particularly inspired by the cross that stands at the birthplace of St Marcellin, on which were the names of all 82 countries with Marist schools. We recognised the power of this symbol for young people: if I ask for his help and guidance, God can use me to make an impact on the whole world, just like he did with St Marcellin. At St Mungo’s this symbol will be reflected by the creation of a cross in one of the school’s main areas: our school’s students hail from many different nations, and each one of these will be represented on our new Marist cross. We hope that this will express the Marist value of creating a welcoming community, and ultimately the Gospel value of love. Kyle Bruce - St Mungos Academy

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My experience at l’Hermitage

As a Marist leader I got the brilliant the close confines with what seemed as in tune with nature and had gotten closer opportunity to go to l’Hermitage in France. strangers. But in fact, it turned out to be a with the other Marist Leaders. Walking in As part of the leadership development great way to bond with the other schools. the hot sun, made it all the better as it only programme, we resided at the home of The centre delivers an experiential boosted our spirits and really helped us Marist founder Marcellin Champagnat wilderness programme, which was connect with one and other. in l’Hermitage, near Lyon in France. The tailored to develop self-confidence We did leadership activities too, which overall purpose of the weekend was and leadership skills, with a particular were great as we got to not only work on to develop leadership and community emphasis on our Marist Values. We visited our leadership skills, but also to help other through a shared experience of activities. Le Rosey, the birthplace of Marcellin. Here people who were struggling with theirs. we learnt about Marcellin’s family and My favourite was the bridge building. We were accompanied by the other the area he grew up in, along with what Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the trip, and Marist schools in Ireland; Moyle park and his life style was like. We saw the Marist would definitely go again if I was given Marian College. Three Scottish schools Cross, which has all the countries where the opportunity as a year 2 Marist Leader. were there too: St. Mungos, St. Johns there is a Marist presence. We visited La Everyone there was very nice and the and St. Josephs. They were great as they Valla, where we saw the original Marist Marist Brothers were very hospitable and added a real atmosphere to the trip, and Brothers Table and learnt more about great hosts, especially Brother Maurice we made some friends for life. Marcellin and the Marist Charism. and Brother Xavi. Alastair and Aisling We were each given roommates from After that we walked from La Valla back made everybody feel confident and another Marist school, to help us further to l’Hermitage. We traced the footsteps of supported throughout the weekend. connect with the other Marist Leaders. At Marcellin, and this was a real highlight of our Written by Rory Kane, first, we were apprehensive about sharing trip. The walk was really good, as we were Marist College Athlone

www.maristeu.com 14 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 Marist Leaders As a group we were invited to take part in the P6/7 Parent information evening. This was our biggest challenge as a group since returning from France. The good thing about that was we were able to tell the parents all about our Marist Leaders Group and all the fun we had and the friends we made and especially about what makes a good leader.

We explained that our group is working on the importance of the Values of St Mar- cellin. We talked about the Family of St Johns and we all have a duty of care to everyone who comes into our lives. This shone through in our presentation. The group spoke to nine different sets of par- ents and by the end we were performing like professionals. We are all secretly desperate to go back next year. Pupils Involved: David Lawson, Ryan Kane, Adam Brown, Ruth Black, Catherine Colvin, Luisa, Amna, Aveena

www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 15 Chalk Talks

Emilia (St. Johns RC High School, Dundee) Catherine (St. Johns RC High School, Dundee)

My experience from France is quite interesting because it was re- I really enjoyed my trip to France with the Marist leaders. I ally fun and I had a great time, I met new people and I still keep in loved getting to make new friends and meet new people that touch some of them, the activities were fun and it was really good I wouldn’t have met, if it wasn’t for the programme. The L’Her- that our groups were mixed as we had the chance to meet new mitage is a beautiful place to stay and everyone was very people. I really liked the idea of sharing a room with someone we welcoming, I enjoyed getting to know more about St Mar- didn’t know. I have learnt so much more about St Marcellin. One cellin’s life and where he grew up. I was pushed out of my thing that I would change is to make so much more activates, as comfort zone and took on the challenge of leading my group there were pupils in the group so that everyone has a chance to through an activity. I loved the whole experience and I am lead as I feel that I have missed out a lot because I didn’t have very grateful that I had this opportunity the chance to lead. I feel that I have gained so much more confi- dence and socialising skills. I would love to come back next year Maria Hapca (St. Johns RC High School, Dundee) as it was one of the best times I have had and I hope that more experiences like this will be organized. Getting to return to France for a second time was amazing feeling. Going away to meet and work with people who are Megan Reilly (St. Johns RC High School, Dundee) doing the same thing as you while knowing you are improv- ing your leadership skills. As a second year Marist leader I My experience in France was amazing! I loved every moment got the opportunity to put all my past knowledge and expe- and I was sad to leave. Everyone was so generous, caring rience to use and support the current first year leaders while and made L’ Hermitage feel like home, all the schools got on they developed their many skills. The trip gave me a sense really well with each other. I learned Many new facts about St. of gratitude that I had the chance to use my experience to Marcellin and the five Marist values. The leadership activities help others along their path and every time I watched my helped everyone gain more confidence and we got to get to group was successful I was flooded was pride. At the end of know each other better, France has one of my best lifetime the weekend I know I had done my part in helping and I had experiences and would love to go back. made friendships that will last

www.maristeu.com 16 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 Chalk Talk – L’Hermitage Marist trip

Myself, along with ten other pupils, Miss visit his home and the place that shaped and interviewed us afterwards to share Cockburn and Mrs Robbins went to France and inspired him. It was beautiful and what we learned. The last night together last month. We are part of the second year very peaceful and definitely a place for we shared what were our favourite parts of Marist Leadership group at St John’s reflection. After we had a look around Le of the trip and went out for dinner. We RC. It was an amazing experience that I Rosey, we travelled to La Valla, which was journeyed into the city St Etienne and will remember for the rest of my life. We where St. Marcellin used as a base for the ha a delicious dinner. My group won the made lots of new friendships with people brothers and to educate others about the challenge of who can get the most points from other Marist schools from Scotland Marist Values. during the day, so we got an extra special and Ireland. The journey there and back Once we finished our journey through treat that night. was very tiring, but very worthwhile. As La Valla and learning all the different As a whole group we found it hard to Marist leaders, we took part in numerous things about the Marist values as a leave because even though we had activities during our experience away. Our group, we had a long walk back to only just met each other, it seemed like first day away from home, was aimed at L’Hermitage but the outcome of the we have known each other for years. getting to know one another, familiarising walk was amazing, I made more new We formed friendships that were unique ourselves with our new surroundings, friends and we discussed what our and special. I have definitely left with getting to know about the other schools schools were like and why we wanted friends for life, and we are all like one and pupils on the trip and what they have to become Marist leaders. happy family. This has been been one accomplished as a Marist school so far. The third day was packed with leadership of the best experiences in my life and activities and everyone got the opportunity would definitely go back again if I got the The second day was by far the best day to become a leader throughout the day. chance to be a Second year Marist Leader for me because we went to the birth The teachers and staff were very helpful, in the future. place of St. Marcellin, at Le Rosey to they also took part in some of the activities Megan Reilly 3D1

www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 17

A christmas gift… in September!

We're getting closer to Christmas. We are this time. So, I tried to live this gathering approaching a time of family, of sharing, like a child during the moment of discov- a time of fraternity, a time of joy and in ering the presents under the tree. which we plan big or small projects. It is I’m not going to tell you what we did also a time to give or receive gifts. A time there, but what I felt during those four of God. But what would you think if I told days through the five Marist values you that I experienced all this during the worked there. I am not wrong if I say that month of September? the family Spirit was present from the moment I landed at Lyon’s airport. There From the 12th to the 15th September, I I met some of the teachers I was going was very fortunate to receive a gift of to share those fantastic days and it was was aware to what had to be done at Marist fraternity at the Hermitage. It is a a very warm welcome. From the very first each moment and to the different needs program for Young Marist leaders. I would time I felt as one more among them. Chil- that each activity entailed. The activities deceive you if I told you that I was not go- dren, teachers, facilitators as Marist fam- were very original and motivating, always ing with a little fear, since I knew no one ily among youth and their growing. What thinking the people that workshops were except three people; my level of English else can we ask for? prepared for and the aims we wanted the was put to the test, since I had never This gathering is about leadership. Many children achieve. That work was always spent 4 days speaking only in English; I activities were prepared carefully and fol- done with a huge smile and the joy and was not going to do anything concrete, lowed one another, with the Marist love laughter were always present during the but to live an experience I was invited to. of work value. Everything was prepared activities or teachers preparation meet- It was very strange for me because I like meticulously, and the realization of the ac- ings. I realised that it was not just a job. to have everything under control but not tivities was planned perfectly. Everybody I felt that the gathering was a vocational

www.maristeu.com 18 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 moment for teachers, facilitators and or- ganizers, beyond an educational task. It was wonderful how the value of pres- Putting Presence ence was present during those days. Teachers were not mere transmitters of information or knowledge but walked with Into Action the young people, accompanied them in Presence can be defined as the state everyone would bake something to the personal discovery of their leadership or fact of existing, occuring or being have on our stall to raise as much money skills, helping them in realizing their vir- present. As Marist Leaders it is important for an ecological based charity. Some of tues and their limitations to empower or that we all show presence in our Marist us made posters, explaining what Marist improve. That presence was carried out Values to express our thoughts and Leaders are and what we do, along with from the simplicity of each one. Not to be feelings clearly to support one another. sign up sheets for our eco group. It was a afraid to show what is genuine in each one great time to get together and have fun; with humility and modesty and putting the At St. Joseph’s College we have looked as well as raising money and spreading personal gifts we have received to the ser- at how we can be more present in our awareness. In the end we raised a good vice of others. Being aware to the little de- school and what we can do to improve amount of money and were pleased to tails, like a family. Simplicity creates a very it for our fellow pupils. In line with this, see that all of our games had sold out! good atmosphere, which at the same time we came up with the idea to promote the Supporting each other throughout was visible to the children as an example ECO Group more prominently in school. this time has helped us to learn more of what they were supposed to live those The Marist Leaders have been going to about what presence actually is. We days and the rest of their lives. weekly meetings to discuss ideas for have learned that speaking clearly and Finally, I cannot imagine other way to do future projects within the school. We listening to each other (being present this job but in the way of Mary. There are have recently been given sole control of mentally) is as important as being there two attitudes I am always aware: caring the current eco group which lets us lead it physically - but also the importance of and tenderness. Prayers were awesome confidently and independently, enabling having fun together too! moments to put the work and learning in our individual ideas to come together The Marist Leaders, the hands of God through Mary. Marcel- as Marist Leaders who are passionate St. Joseph’s College – Dumfries lin Champagnat wanted Her to be the in- about the environment. We are hoping spiration of tenderness for Marist around to begin monthly meetings next year, for the world. And it was like this during the new ideas and new projects. gathering. These attitudes were present To promote our eco group we delivered all time during those days. a presentation, during assembly, to the I only need to thank Aisling, Alastair and junior school, as they are less informed the Province of West Central Europe for about global issues e.g climate change. the invitation to participate in the meeting, The assemblies were about us as Marist and for the warm welcome I found, feeling Leaders, the global issues that are myself one more among the facilitators, currently happening in the world and how as a family, at home. Sometimes I wonder we hoped to help to reduce some of the how we can continue to take steps to vi- impact that we are having as school upon talize the Marist charism in the world or in the environment. By us all presenting we Europe and I realize that from the simplici- felt that we were in fact being present. ty of the encounter and the tenderness of Being individually involved insured that dealing with the other lays the bases. everyone’s thoughts and ideas were At the end of the meeting, like a child included in these assemblies to promote in front of the Christmas gifts, I find my- the eco group. self with the enthusiasm of continuing to In one of our weekly meetings we build the Marist Europe that we want to decided that it would be quite fitting promote together. The youth of today de- if we had a Marist stall at our school serve it and so do we. Christmas Market. It was organised that Br Xavi Gual –Hermitage Province www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 19 Putting Presence Into Action

As a group, we have carried out some for our Christmas food hampers, to be activities, under the guidance of the distributed locally. Marist Value: Presence. In the month On Wednesday 4th of December, Marist of November, we remember our dearly Leaders are invited to the launch of departed family and friends, with this the Midlands Litter Initiative, hosted by in mind the Marist Leaders attended Catherine Byrne TD. This will further aid a remembrance service at the AIT us with our Green Schools Flag initiative. campus. The leaders each brought To finish off this term, we will be putting forward a candle to the altar to represent Presence into action by decorating deceased staff and students from our areas of the school for Christmas, and school. The service was celebrated by encouraging all staff and students to wear our Bishop and local priests. their Christmas jumpers on Friday 13th of December. Our term will finish up on This month we launched our food Tuesday 17th December with ice-skating appeal. We encourage each student and shopping in Dublin. and staff member to bring in a non- Marist Leaders perishable food item, which will be used at Marist College Athlone

Reflection – Quiz, Presence

The quiz we did was a 10 rounds types atmosphere of “Presence” as everyone of quiz. It was done in the old hall of was there, doing something. Marian College on the 23rd of October. The quiz was our first organised event I did this along with my fellow Marist for fundraising as Marist Leaders and it Leaders and classmates Dave Doyle, was quite the experience. The quiz was a Alex Egan, Souleymane Barry, Chingun success, however, there were some slip- Purevdondov, Oisin O’Reilly, Lochlainn ups now and then. These are things that Byrne and Rhys Ennis. we have reflected on and would change We held the quiz for the 1st years and if we were to carry out another quiz in the some 2nd years joined along as well. school. The reason we did this quiz to is to raise Every student involved in the quiz money for the bike sheds. had a great time, we worked hard to Rhys presented the questions, Alex and keep everyone engaged and to create Throughout the duration of the quiz there I corrected and Lochlainn and Chingun questions from a wide range of topics was an atmosphere of one of our Marist presented the scores. to ensure everyone was involved. The Values. The atmosphere of “Presence”. The 1st years were split into teams to quiz was beneficial for the first years as From my personal experience I could see work towards a common goal and each it gave them an opportunity to mix and that everyone was doing their best to one contributed to writing down an work together outside of the classroom contribute in this event. answer. Some 2nd years came in and it environment. They got a taste of Marian Marist Leaders organised the event, was decided that they could join in as well school spirit and our Marist values were everyone was given their specific role if they wanted and if needed, we could’ve instrumental in helping us organise and in the organisation and running of the asked them to help out. plan the event. quiz. Dave and Souleymane collected All in all, nobody was left out, everyone Rhy Ennis, and distributed the papers, Oisin and worked together. This gave the Marian College Dublin

www.maristeu.com 20 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 What on earth is a Marist School? What does it mean to be a Marist School?

What difference (if any) does it make being in a Marist school? Is it just a name? Is it a school uniform or jersey? It is just an accident of history? Does it mean anything at all? For some years now, there have been no Marist Brothers teaching in many of our schools. Oddly enough, this has allowed us to think in a new way about what being Marist means. The Marist Brothers in Ireland, who would have been seen as the ‘experts’, have actively encouraged their teaching staff to take on the mantle of the Marist spirit and through the Marist Student Leadership Programme, students have been invited to belong to the Marist family by exploring its story and sharing its values. You could look at all of this as evidence of decline or as evidence of renewal. When I read the story of St. Marcelin Champagnat and his first team of Marist educators, most during the heyday of Religious Life in school by undertaking group projects, on of whom were teenagers, I can sense the the mid twentieth century. Our present behalf of the whole school community. spirit of excitement and adventure they sense of crisis and questioning about Being a Student Marist Leader isn’t the must have shared in those early days. values, society and faith would, I think, same as being one of St. Marcelin’s first They were starting from nothing, but have been familiar to anyone living at group. They won’t be living in community they had a strong sense of community the beginning of the nineteenth century or building schools with their bare hands. and a strong belief that that they were in France. But they will be part of a living tradition not on their own; God was somehow that goes all the way back to St. Marcelin guiding them. They were beginning their Old Roots, New Shoots and at the end of the year the word adventure in Post-revolutionary France, In our Irish Marist schools students each ‘Marist’ should mean something more to a country that had undergone one of the year students are inducted into the Marist them than it does now. They will learn greatest social and religious revolutions Student Leadership Programme. This about the five Marist values. Belonging in modern history. The environment was programme helps to form leaders and to that Marist tradition means taking up exceptionally hostile, and many Church it is clear from the way the programme the Marist values: Presence, Simplicity, institutions were seen to be on their works that all people have the qualities of Family Spirit, Love of Work and In the Way last legs. Whatever you can say about leadership and indeed, different styles of of Mary. them, Marcelin and his friends were leadership. I think this is a great opportunity Practically speaking, everyone in the not conformists, following the crowd. for students to develop leadership skills school community has two alternatives. They were pioneers, with all the sense and notice what styles of leadership are You can work or study in a Marist school of adventure, risk and idealism that best suited to their personalities. Over and it can be simply the place where you implies. St. Marcelin would probably the two years the students are given work or study. It can be the name of the feel more at home in the present-day opportunities to use and develop these place you go to each day, or a certain situation in Ireland than he would have skills and hopefully add to the life of the colour uniform or a certain colour jersey. www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 21

Or, if you want to, you can be part of that a strike to draw attention to the dangers is the most important value of all. I think living tradition which is called ‘Marist’. of climate change. I’m sure valuable time it is the value that makes the difference You can belong to something which was lost and perhaps comments were and creates a school community with began on a wing and prayer in post- made about what all this could possibly a difference. It depends very much on revolutionary France two hundred years achieve. But this is an issue which affects what Mary means to us. What do you ago; you can take these five values up students today and is likely to affect us all picture when you think of Mary? When and look for ways to graft them into the increasingly into the future. Concern for I think of Mary, I am thinking of a poor life of the school community. There are climate change is an example of a value young Jewish woman, called Myriam in staff and students in our Marist Schools worth expressing because it calls out Hebrew, living in an irrelevant backwater who already have the gift of presence: the selfish ways of living and consuming of the Roman Empire. She is, on the face they are ‘with you’, not in a superficial that our societies have established and of it, a manifestly unimportant person. way, but in a manner that makes life normalised. In itself it doesn’t change We should never have learned her better in the school. They ‘pick up on things, but it’s a first step, and without a name or even known she existed. I think things’ and give people time. There are first step nothing can change. of Mary as a girl with her own (probably staff and students who have the gift As long as staff and students are quite modest) dreams and hopes, whose of simplicity: they avoid complicating consciously trying to apply the Marist life is suddenly turned upside down and life and they use the resources of the values across the school and all its changes direction in an instant, because earth (and the school) sparingly and activities, our Marist Schools continues she is invited to become the mother of respectfully. There are staff and students to be part of that living tradition, with or Jesus and to become part of God’s plan who have a gift for Family Spirit: they without the presence of Marist Brothers for her people and for the world. Her watch out for others, they do not stand or clergy. A Diocese in the United States whole life from this moment on, is about aloof or make distinctions that exclude decided in a very radical way to apply making space for something which is people. They are the great includers in one value to all their meetings of the greater than her own life goals, so it is the school. There are staff and students Diocesan Team. At every meeting as one long walk in Faith. I think of Mary as with a great work ethic: they value the they scanned their agenda, they asked someone who trusts God to accompany opportunities they have of learning one question: ‘what has this item to do her; not to answer all her questions or to new skills and they are not afraid to with the poor?’ Sometimes the items on save her from all heartache and pain. We excel. If you see one or more of these the agenda had no obvious connection have to try to get beyond those ideas qualities in yourself and you are willing to the lives of the poor, so those items of God. What God wants is a covenant to consciously find ways of expressing were taken off the agenda. This one relationship, a relationship over the them in the life of the school, then you value changed their whole approach to length of our lives which deepens are already a part of that living tradition the work of the diocese and helped the and allows God’s healing power to of Marist Education, you belong to the team discard and jettison a good deal change us and to change the world. Marist family! of work which was taking up their time That relationships won’t answer all our What might Living Our each month, but not in any way related questions or save us from the pain of to their mission to serve the poor. How life. But it will change our whole outlook, Values Mean? we try to live our values makes the giving us a faith perspective. Mary is It is the conscious application of these difference. It connects us to our roots the very best example of being open to values to the school which makes it and it brings new energy into what we this covenant. I think the other values different, which makes it Marist and at are doing. (presence, work, family spirit, simplicity) times these values should be expressed are widely acceptable to any school or even if it slows the school day or causes In the Way of Mary group in society. Mary represents the disruption or gets in the way of the The value I haven’t explored above is value of faith and faith means a lively ‘running of the school’. The values we try ‘In the Way of Mary’. It’s a bit vague expectation, an anticipation, that God to live by are important. They should be perhaps, and, I have noticed, a bit of a wants to do something new, risky and not just be words on banners or mission ‘catch-all value’. It is not as clear cut as unforeseen in our lives. Faith challenges statements, mentioned on big occasions. ‘hard work’ or ‘simplicity’ and can sound the logic of calculation and planning. They should disrupt our routines! Recently, a bit like ‘motherhood and apple-pie’! As Faith is wild, because it means being students across the UK and Ireland had it happens, I think ‘In the Way of Mary’ open to something I don’t yet know, to

www.maristeu.com 22 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019

The Road Ahead My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will something God has not yet revealed to source of life and justice and truth in our end, nor do I really know myself, me. It challenges our human need to world? Is God real, for me? If the answer and the fact that I think that I am always be right, always in control of life, to that question is ‘yes’ then prayer is following your will does not mean that always in charge. Faith means trusting key: we cannot move from self to God I am actually doing so. that at the heart of all things there is a without prayer. ‘In the Way of Mary’ is a But I believe that the desire to please great mystery of love and goodness, value that creates time for quiet and for you does in fact please you. whom we call ‘God’. prayer, out of which radical actions will And I hope I have that desire in all Mary reminds me that the world, as it is grow and real change will occur. Prayer that I am doing. today, is radically unfair and unjust. That and silence make space to hear the ‘still I hope that I will never do anything I myself am a part of that unfairness small voice of God’ (1 Kings 19: 12) that apart from that desire. And I know and I benefit from it. That I enjoy a breaks in on the world and calls us to that if I do this, you will lead me healthy and comfortable lifestyle with recreate it and no longer ignore the cry by the right road though I may know opportunities for education and work, of the poor and the forgotten. nothing about it. and many other, through no fault of their The old photographs on the walls of Therefore I will trust you always own live and die in misery. Mary, raised Marist Brothers in cassocks and collars are though I may seem to be lost and in up from obscurity has become God’s becoming part of a history that fewer and the shadow of death. I will not fear, for greatest protest to a world that has got fewer people can remember. But the values you are ever with me, it wrong. In some ways a Marist school that ignited the Marist Family are just as and you will never leave me to face should regularly remind its students much alive. And there is nothing stopping my perils alone. that they have been invited to change us from living them. It is a great tradition to Amen. (Thomas Merton) Prayers the world, by changing themselves, or belong to and those who are creative and in the Marist Tradition, Marist High better, after Mary’s example, letting God have even a spark of faith have the chance School, Chicago. change them. Do we believe God exists, to write a new chapter in the story. Fr Liam Kelly not just as an idea, but as the eternal Fr Liam Kelly OFM www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 23

Mindelheim Facilitation From Oct 3rd – 5th and from Oct 30th practice sessions and personal feedback, – Nov 1st, 2019, a 6-day facilitation which elevated the course from a mere training course held be the Kinharvie theoretical lecture to a practical lesson Institute took place in Mindelheim, in facilitation and understanding people Germany. and their argumentative positions. All participants were invited to facilitate The first three session days were practice sessions themselves and in facilitated by Martin Pearson while Paul the meantime between the first and Cummings brought the training to an end. second part of the training, the newly Six German participants, ranging from acquired skills were eagerly but to teachers over former CMI volunteers the test in real world scenarios. Both to Brother Michael, experienced a the group and the facilitators enjoyed sometimes challenging but utterly working together and concluded that a rewarding training in English, full of facilitatory approach to communication, insights into successful communication group tasks, conflicts and challenges is and conflict management. Martin and Paul tremendously helpful in everyday life, gave ample opportunities for questions, work and at school.

www.maristeu.com 24 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 German Coordinators Recklinghausen

Meeting of the German Marist A second project was presented by Hans Coordinators in Recklinghausen Staudner and Johanna Aschenbrenner from Cham. Under the motto "Marist your From 17.-19 of November, the Coordinators life - just live" they have developed a of Marist Activities in the four German Marist concept for the Marist virtues of simplicity, Schools in Germany met under the direction of modesty and humility for secondary Hans Staudner to learn more about the topic education. It first clarifies the three terms of "Promoting Marist Values at Marist Schools". using video clips and develops ideas The conference began with a morning on what a simpler, humbler and more devotion, designed by Hans Staudner modest life could look like. With the help (Marist Realschule Cham), and a Eucharistic of specially designed maps, students can celebration, which was celebrated by David get ideas on how they can live easier and Formella, a former Marist student and now contribute to a better environment. Once a pastor in Recklinghausen. The morning Eva Alfranseder presented in this context completed, the project may result in a real was used to exchange views on the status the "Marist Day", which took place this year student activity that aims to help others quo of Marist work at the four Marist for the first time at the Marist Gymnasium and themselves to live a simpler life. schools and to discuss the possibilities Furth. It is a project day for the 5th grade In order to be able to carry out the two and constraints of cooperation at national with the aim of giving students an insight projects without difficulty at their own and international level. Together, it was into the Marist world. They found out who schools, each coordinator received a agreed that the German Marist Schools Marcellin Champagnat was and what Marist teacher's and student's booklet of the should network more closely. In the future, values stand for all over the world. Firstly, the "Marist Day" and a "Marist Box" containing a joint teacher's trip to the mountain hut students got an overview of Champagnat's all the materials needed to carry out Silum in Liechtenstein and a joint school life and the history of his own Marist school. "Marist your life" . trip to Hermitage in France will be offered. Afterwards they worked in five stations, A big thank you goes to the hosts, the The second part of the conference each focusing on the values family spirit, Maristenrealschule and the Marist Brothers dealt with the question of how Marist love of work, presence, simplicity and in the in Recklinghausen, who welcomed and fundamentalism can be more integrated way of Mary. The project day ended with a accompanied the coordinators with Marist into the profile of Marist schools. reflection and a joint conclusion. hospitality.

www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 25 New German Marist schools Role Johanna Aschenbrenner M.A. (Magister Artium) and Hans Staudner have joined the Pedagogical Team of the Province this year. Since September of this year, they have been responsible for the further development of the Marist charism in German Marist schools. To say they are new is not quite true. Both have been living and working in the Marist world for a very long time.

HANS STAUDNER I joined the Marists in 1976 when I joined the school. The brothers have deepened and widened my faith life. As a result, I moved to the dormitory of the brothers in Munich after my army time and studied Religious Education / Ec- clesiastical Education (Diploma 1988). This was followed by eight years as a religion teacher at a focal point school (80% migrant and many socially weak stu- dents), a three-year training in psychotherapy, five years of psy- chology / education and Catholic JOHANNA theology and 10 years as a house ASCHENBRENNER M.A. manager of the student dormi- We will also plan joint reflection tory Marists. Since 1988, I have days in Munich, a joint youth 56 years, 2 adult children, 1 grandchild worked in various committees of meeting in Cham, a trip to Her- Studied Art History the then German province and mitage with all the young people and Classical Archeology, M.A. since 2000 I am working as a from our schools who are commit- Training psychological counseling teacher and pastor at the Maris- ted to helping others and a free Training as Expressionist for adults and children ten Realschule Cham. time for employees in one of our Working since 2001 as an Art teacher at the Our goals are to create a bet- houses in Liechtenstein or in the Maristen Realschule Cham ter network of German Marist Bavarian Forest. schools and a deepening of We want to get to know the school I also offer creative electives in art, theater and vid- our values among students and communities better and bring eo, especially for students who are not so lucky in employees. The first project we them closer together. We also their lives launched in November, "Marist want to learn and want to learn Schoolhouse design in the way of Marist values your life - just live", aims to teach from our colleagues. I have worked in close collaboration with Hans our students in secondary edu- We are very much looking for- (Schulseelsorger) from the very beginning: Whitsun cation the Marist virtues of sim- ward to our tasks, to strengthen gatherings, pilgrimages (Rome, Hermitage, Assisi), plicity, modesty and humility, the exchange of experiences with weekends in Liechtenstein and Marzellinklause and encourage them to adopt a many Marists on our Marist path (Bavarian Forest) for Bible groups, worship arrange- Marist lifestyle. together. ments and much more.

www.maristeu.com 26 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019

Meeting of Provincial Councils of Europe From 5 to 7 November, the meeting of the five Provincial Councils of Marist Europe took place in Valladolid, Spain. новое фото дропбокс On this occasion, lay collaborators Valladolid_11.19 were also invited to participate in the exchanges. From our Province, Ms. Jasmine Nimar from Mindelheim was able to join along with Brothers Nicholas Smith, Roberto Di Troia and myself.

This allowed us, first of all, to have a better knowledge of each other and to share the priorities that had emerged during the Provincial Chapters. and future capacity in all aspects of the We have also emphasized the But we also wanted to go one step region; strengthening of the Mission Councils further on our path of building the Marist to promote communion and co- and local Marist teams in schools and European Region. Through the theme responsibility. projects, the importance of international "Ahora, Europe" (Now, Europe), Brothers During the different sessions, I could meetings for young people and their Luis Carlos Gutiérrez (Vicar General) and say that we have tried to build bridges involvement in the life and work of young João Carlos do Prado (General Councilor), between us, to go beyond the walls that people in Marist mission. invited us to: still separate us and to look for ways to Although there are still many challenges, build a common vision of the Marist work more together, among other things it's exciting to "walk together as a global future in Europe with viability and vitality with regard to the training for life and family! " for life and mission; Marist mission, both for the Brothers and Brother Robert Thunus, to become more aware of our current for the lay collaborators. Provincial

Read the news and see the pictures on www.champagnat.org www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 27 «Meet Conny Stuart – Nijmegen Netherlands» Interview Conny Stuart

1. Tell us a little bit about yourself sister (flute) I also accompanied I'm Conny, married to André, mother of 4 a youth choir. At the moment I adult children. I work as a delegate of the learn to play the harp and really Marist brothers at Leerhous Westerhelling enjoy this. and Moria in Nijmegen. 5. Who is a person you admire 2. How did you get involved with the and why? Marist world? The deceased Brother Henk I went to the Marianum, a secondary Wienk was a great source of inspiration 7. What is the best part about being a school of the Maristen fathers. I met in my early years with Moria and as a Marist for you? a priest there who was very inspiring. Marist. Fr. Henk was a prison pastor, and When I was young I visited for the first time Through him I became acquainted with started Moria 25 years ago: a place where l’Hermitage, and saw the “diaporama”. the Marist brothers, and since 1993 I have (former) detained youngsters can live to I was deeply touched by the story of been part of the Marist community in the resume their lives. Where counselors Marcelin, following his calling in poor Netherlands together with André. walk with them for a while and support circumstances and with everything (and them to regain solid ground. Fr. Henk did not more) than he had. And it was more 3. For those that don't know Marist everything to ensure that "his boys" were than enough, see the inspiration he is Netherlands can you tell us a little bit right. He dared to deviate from rules if that still in the world today. Being part of that about it? was good for the boys, and believed like movement, belonging to the community In the Netherlands there is a small no one else in the good that there was or people who want to live in a Marian community of fathers, brothers and lay in every boy. He did not let anyone go, way, is very meaningful. Marists. The fathers had a secondary even though his trust was often violated. school until a few years ago. Furthermore, He made everyone feel that you matter, 8. If you didn't do your job what would they were mainly employed in parishes. that you are essentially good and worth it. your dream job be? The brothers had two boarding schools in What I do now IS my dream job! It is the Netherlands. Since the closure of these 6. What accomplishments are you most an opportunity to provide a space for boarding schools, Moria and the current proud of or in your life? young people to discover who they Leerhuis Westerhelling have been their I can’t say. I am often proud of things I really are, and what their source is. interpretation of their calling and mission. see and do, especially together with the To offer a place where they can find people I live and work with. My children shelter, where they can be still, to make 4. What is an interesting fact that most growing up and being more independent. space to see what is really important people may not know about you? An inspiring meeting with young people in their lives. To me it is a challenge to As a child I learned to play church-organ. who do not find another place where they keep eyes on what is important to us; It was thrilling to play such an imposing can meet soul mates. A beautiful necklace what is our Marian way of being present instrument. With my brother (clarinet) and I made together with my daughter. in our time, for young people who do

www.maristeu.com 28 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 not know God? How can we provide a life-giving space where young people come in contact with the Mystery of Life, Job advertisement Youth officer for and see that they are not alone in the school-based and open your work questions of life they have. Marist Brothers in Mindelheim

9. How would your family and friends describe you? I think they say I am a good listener, better than a speaker or writer. That I am seeking truth and justice, and can be stubborn. Our vision is to make young people aware of their search for God. They will say I look at things from the and to awaken and promote responsibility for the world. positive side and that I am reflective. We want to support young people on this path.

10. What is a significant event in your life? My wedding day, the day I became a Who we are Marist, the birth of my children are events The Marist Brothers are a worldwide religious community whose main mission that changed my life. It makes me grateful. is the educational upbringing of children and young people. In Mindelheim we are involved in the curriculum and pastoral work of the Marist College 11. When is your birthday? and in the preparation and support of young adults who wish to participate as June 11. volunteers in one of the many Marist projects worldwide.

12. When you have free time what do Starting in September 2019 we are looking for you like to do? Full-time or two part-time I love making things; for example ointment Youth officers for school and open youth work. from herbs, and jewelry together with my daughter. Your main tasks will include • Development and implementation of a religious educational program for 13. Now that you are a member of the student retreats and reflection days, workshops with pedagogical, religious Mission Council, what is your vision for educational and curricular contents for classes of the Maristenkolleg and West Central Europe? other schools from Mindelheim and the surrounding area. It is important to be part of a community. • Development of out-of-school Marist youth work Being a member of the MC makes • Reconstruction and accompaniment of the ministrant group at the study church me more aware that I, and we in the • Cooperation with church youth work and other youth work Netherlands, are part of the community Eligibility of our province and beyond. Being part of • Completed studies in social work, pedagogy or similar (vocational or study) a community means inspiring, nurturing, degrees or completed studies in theology, religious pedagogy or similar keeping each other focused, supporting (vocational) degrees, each other. • Experience in practical youth work Relationships are important. It is good • Enjoying working with young people that there are times when people from the Your Benefits province meet regularly and get to know • Direct employment by the Order of the Marist Brothers, possibly also via the each other, so that a group of people Diocese of Augsburg, validity of the TV-L or ABD can become a community. Finding each • International networking, creativity and freedom of an initial appointment, other on the basis of a common history • Familiar working atmosphere and inspiration, and also through different Contact us histories, experiences, talents and skills. • Brother Michael Schmalzl, Champagnatplatz 2, 87719 Mindelheim, Translating this inspiration into what [email protected] is good to do now and here keeps us • Internet: www.maristen.de/Ausschreibung and www.champagnat.org moving. www.maristeu.com Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 29 Journey to Notre-Dame-de-L’Hermitage

In the autumn holidays of the year But do not misunderstand me – this is so happy to meet people who do not 2018 11 teachers from Marist School was not just a tour for sightseeing and speak German as their first language and Recklinghausen travelled to Notre- shopping. Every day we learned a bit who greeted everybody around in every Dame-de-L’Hermitage in the footsteps more about Marcellin, his life and his work language she knew. The boy who seems of St. Marcellin. and at the same time, with the marvellous to care for nothing when you see him at help of Bro. Diogène, about ourselves, home and whose eyes were shining after On their return they were convinced that our lives and our works. In the evening experiencing the French mass and told me this experience should also be made what we learned was deepened and that for a moment he was afraid he might possible for pupils and parents. Said and supported by a short meditation. When start to cry. The new girl who was so shy done. Well, okay, it was not that easy. we, the teachers, planned the journey at and whose eyes were shining – I loved her Lots of preparation had to be done. The home, we focussed on one aspect of our smile. The boy who nearly never speaks at first question was: Which age should the journey each day. These aspects were school and who recently experienced the students be, which grade makes sense? the Stone, the Light, the Rose and the sudden loss of a family member – he finally After some consideration (including age Water (and if you want to know why and came to rest and now can speak to me in reasons, financial matters, problems of what we did – feel free to contact me!). class. The teacher who is always a rebel, other curricular duties) it was decided The days flew and suddenly it was the last but was captured by the atmosphere and that pupils from class 8 (aged 13 to 14) day and time to go home again. really enjoyed to be there. For all of us this should be asked. And in the end 17 pupils, Now we are back at school and the time at journey was a valuable experience, though one former student, four parents and four the Hermitage is now a part of our memories. there were some difficulties – as there teachers took part in the journey. But still I see before my inner eye and hear is always when you do things like this. I We travelled from Recklinghausen to with my inner ears the people who joined hope we can further make this experience Lyon by train. Changing trains with such us: this boy who is a terror in class with all possible for many teachers, parents, pupils a group was a bit of an adventure, but his comments and disturbances and who and alumni. One thing is definitely sure by we mastered this challenge – although walks up the mountains to La Valla and now: We have made many people jealous! we had such a lot of luggage and even keeps on telling me with shining eyes how Ulrike Weber – a wheelchair! Luckily we were collected much he loves to be there. The girl who Maristen Realschule Recklinghausen by a bus at Lyon station and so the rest of the journey through the French evening was very relaxed. In the Hermitage we were expected by a late dinner, then we moved into our rooms, checked out the differences between French and German beds and very quickly everybody was in the room and very quiet. Within the next few days we explored the house, walked to La Valla, went on the Route Champagnat, visited Lyon with its wonderful cathedral Notre Dame de Fourviere and from there enjoyed the great sunny view over the city. We even could see the snow-covered Alps!

www.maristeu.com 30 | Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019

Mission Council West Central Europe positions available

The Mission Council of West Central Europe is looking to recruit two new members.

The Mission Council is responsible for leadership and animation of mission in the province. The Council currently comprises of six people, one representing each country in the province and also the Director of Mission. If you are involved in Marist mission in a 50 years Nativity Friends Marist school or project in the province and would like to develop your role by Mindelheim e. V. (1969 – 2019) becoming a member of the Mission Council then please contact Aisling Since the time of the Jesuits, His successor, F. Bernhard Gerlitzki, Demaison [email protected] Mindelheim and its surroundings have continued this tradition from 1996 - 2001. for further details. been cultivating the nativity tradition His nativity scenes of Christmas and the as an old Catholic custom for 400 life of Jesus and Mary are also kept in two years. On this occasion, 50 years other photo albums. Attention all Marist ago, the association "Nativity Friends Thankfully, Alfred Walter from Dirlewang Mathematics Mindelheim e. V. ". which gave the old agreed to continue the care of the Marist & Science customs new momentum. Nativity scene and to preserve it today. As a Marist student, he was familiar with the Departments In 1950, the Marist Brothers established the nativity tradition at the Marist College from study church for the Marist College with a his youth and is today a member of the Would you like to connect with other boarding school and surroundings. Starting board of the Mindelheim nativity club. Mathematics and Science departments in 1953, at the entrance to the church on the The four photo albums and recent collections in Marist Schools around Europe? first floor, it became possible to build cribs of recent years are kept in the archives of the for the Christmas mystery all year round, Marist Brothers in Mindelheim and in the crib The Head of Mathematics and Science and throughout the year with depictions of archive of the Studienkirche. at Maristes Valldemia Spain would the life of Jesus and Mary. A few years later, Thanks to all those who supported them like to create a network to create a the crib area was moved to the entrance during the 50 years and up to this day useful Marist web where Maths and area of the church and expanded. keep up the nativity tradition in Bavaria. Science teachers can exchange real Funded by Erwin Holzbauer and OStD Mindelheim is a crib city. For this double and innovative experiences. Egon Stähler, both colleagues of the jubilee, the special exhibition "30 Years If you are keen to know more please Marist College and honorary members of the Swabian Nativity Museum" was contact Head of Mathematiques of the Marist Brothers, designed the first created in 2019, which will be ready in the and Science, Mr. Joan day nurseries. Egon Stähler supervised Mindelheim Museum until February 2020 Pratdepadua at Maristes Valldemia the nursery until 1996 and created many and we invite you to visit the crib city of [email protected] of the self-designed nativity scenes. They Mindelheim. https://www.valldemia.maristes.cat are preserved in two photo albums. F. Heinrich Schamberger FMS www.maristeu.com CALENDAR 2020 Being Marist / DECEMBER | 2019 | 31

JANUARY 10 Skype Mission Council Meeting 13-15 Madrid Mission Council Europe (MEC) Meeting 26 Dublin Provincial Council Meeting TBD Dublin Marist Youth Group Meeting

FEBRUARY 29 Dublin Marist Core Team Gathering Dublin

MARCH 14 Dublin Province Marist Chairpersons Gathering 19-22 France Province Pilgrimage Hermitage

APRIL 27-30 Dublin European Pastoral Youth Ministry Committee Meeting

JUNE 9-10 TBD European Solidarity Meeting

JULY 13-20 Rome Accompaniment Programme

AUGUST 1-9 Madrid Animators Programme

OCTOBER 1-4 France Marist Leaders Gathering Hermitage

FUTURE DATES MARCH 2021 11-14 France Province Pilgrimage

SEPTEMBER 2021 23-26 France Marist Leaders Gathering Hermitage

MARCH 2022 10-13 France Province Pilgrimage www.maristeu.com www.facebook.com/maristeducationeu www.twitter.com/MaristEducationwww.maristeu.com