NACMS NEWSLETTER
December 2020
Although 2020 has had its challenges, here at NACMS we've enjoyed sharing our online podcasts, courses, and programming with friends, old and new. Our latest "Sharing Our Marianist Stories" podcast features Linda Zappacosta and Matt Meyers discussing the very Marianist beginnings of the Marianist Sisters Vocation Fund. As we prepare for Christmas we are highlighting Sister Gabriel Bibeau's Advent Reflections. If you didn't get a chance to sign up for our Marianist History Course last fall, we are offering it again in January 2021. Keep reading for more information and to discover other NACMS news.
In this episode, Lay Marianists Linda Zappacosta and Matt Meyers share the story of how they helped start the Marianist Sisters Vocation Fund, which is a group of Marianist brothers, sisters, and laity who raise funds to offset the college debt of women entering the Marianist Sisters. They share about how they came to know that student debt was an obstacle to women discerning with the Sisters and how they were able to put their heads together to find a solution to the problem. They also reflect on the beauty of the three branches working together for the future of the entire Marianist Family. To listen click here.
For each week of Advent we have a short podcast that is a meditation on one aspect of Mary's life related to Advent. The first episode of our Advent Marian Meditations is about the Annunciation. This podcast features a Scripture reading, reflection questions, and soothing music to lead you deeper into prayer. Check our this link each week of Advent for another Marian Meditation.
On November 13-14, nine members of the Marianist Family, from coast to coast (and France!), gathered together to reflect and write on the topic "How am I called to be Marianist?". Although we did take time for prayer, writing exercises, and peer consultation, most of the weekend was personal writing time. Our major caveat? Their essays must be completed and submitted by Sunday evening. Well, we were wowed by the heartfelt, funny, and honest essays we received and encourage you to read them here. We will host our next Marianists Write Now! program on March 12-13. Details coming soon.
The Online Marianist History Course is an introduction to the history of the Marianist Family spanning pre-Revolutionary France through the death of Father Chaminade. This course is adapted from the Marianist History Course that is offered to novices in formation with the Marianist Brothers and Sisters. The content of the course is the same; we have simply adapted it for an online format. In the Online Marianist History Course, students will have monthly virtual classes via Zoom with an instructor. Students are also required to complete reading assignments and to post on an online class message board.
To register click here.
All of us at NACMS wish you and yours a blessed
and healthy Advent season.
Sufjan Stevens Version
Lyrics
One two three four
O come, o come Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
That mourns in lonely exile here
Until the Son of God appears
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice
O come, Thou day spring, come and cheer
Our spirits by Thine advent here
Disperse the gloomy clouds of night
And death's dark shadows put to flight
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice
Emmanuel
And ransom captive Israel
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice
O come, o come, Thou Lord of mights
Who to Thy tribes on Sinai's height
In ancient times didn't give the law
In cloud and majesty and awe
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice
Rejoice, rejoice, rejoice
North American Center for Marianist Studies
Dayton, OH 45430-1083

NACMS Office Hours by appointment only until further notice.
To make an appointment please call 937.429.2521.

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