A Saint who Perseveres

He had been on the island for over four months. Daily he and Brother Marie Nizier had faithfully practised the routine of prayer prescribed by their rule; on most days he had celebrated Mass; in February with his companion he had carried out the liturgy of Candlemas Day and Ash Wednesday. Quite often the islanders had been present at these acts of worship, though without understanding them, since Peter had no means of explaining anything. His efforts at peacemaking had largely gone unheeded. Very little – except what we might nowadays term wishful thinking – occurs in his diary about direct efforts at evangelisation. Quite simply, he was completely handicapped by lack of communication, and it must have been extremely discouraging. Small wonder that he felt the need of consulting …his Marist fellow-priests. (Graystone, St Peter Chanel, Pg. 29)

Prayer for Vocations
Lord Jesus, you gave to the Church, the Society of Mary and the people of Oceania, St Peter Chanel, as an example of gentleness, compassion and love in action. Welcome many young men and women into the Marist Family, as priests, brothers and sisters. Help us to share our charism with lay people throughout the world and to work in partnership with them in mission for the good of your Church and the world. This prayer we make to the Father in Your name through the Holy Spirit. Amen.

(Picture: Tracy L. Christenson, https://tracylchristianson.com/index.html)

The Joy of the Gospel

The followers of Niuliki… gathered one day near the Marists’ hut in Alo to hear one of their gods speaking through the mouth (as they put it) of one of his devotees. It was, as the good Brother observes, especially in time of war that they felt the need of such encouragement. The speech, loud and animated, was clearly audible inside Peter’s dwelling. To counteract this pagan exhibition the missionaries started to sing “a deux voix” the Salve Regina, followed by the Inviolata. Their voices must have been remarkably strong, for after a while a few of the islanders, despite their fear of the god who they thought was addressing them, came over to ask the Marists to continue their singing, and at the end of the harangue a great number joined them. (Graystone, St Peter Chanel, Pg. 24)

Prayer for Vocations
Lord Jesus, you gave to the Church, the Society of Mary and the people of Oceania, St Peter Chanel, as an example of gentleness, compassion and love in action. Welcome many young men and women into the Marist Family, as priests, brothers and sisters. Help us to share our charism with lay people throughout the world and to work in partnership with them in mission for the good of your Church and the world. This prayer we make to the Father in Your name through the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Earth Day is an annual event celebrated around the world on April 22nd to demonstrate support for environmental protection. This year’s theme is “Our Power, Our Planet.”

As Marists, we are actively concerned and pay close attention to the consequences of global warming and climate issues. We seek to educate ourselves and others about issues affecting our world.

We are reminded of the words by Pope Francis in Laudato Si’ “All of us can cooperate as instruments of God for the care of creation, each according to his or her own culture, experience, involvements and talents.”

To find out more about Earth Day 2025 resources and events click HERE.

Easter Blessings from the Society of Mary USA (Marists)!