The Provincial Council has approved two men to begin the Pre-Novice program in Queretaro:

They will begin on January 17. I’m thankful to Nereo Ramirez Hernández & Quentin Hakenewerth, who will accompany our brothers in this step of their discernment.

Earlier this week, we received a document from the General Council: "For a Synodal Church - Consultation of the communities." The General Council wants to involve our communities in the reflection on this important theme for the Church. In this way, we can enter into synodality. We encourage communities to send the fruit of their reflection directly to the GA using the online form. Your participation will serve to enrich our own response to the consultation as the Society of Mary. Please do so before February 27, 2022.

The news reports once again tell us how much the new variant of the pandemic is affecting our country/world. Please continue to take precautions in your community, ministry and outings.

Bro. Pulkit Minj professed perpetual vows at Nirmal Deep, Ranchi, on January 8. Fr. Sudhir Kujur, the District Superior, presided at the Mass and received the vows. The Indian government’s new set of Covid rules forced the perpetual vows celebration to be simple with a limited number of participants. The Novitiate community and staff were very helpful in organizing the celebration in a meaningful way. A few family members, Marianist Brothers, Sisters, and friends participated in the celebration. See photos.

January 13: Meetings, West Pine

January 18: Preside Chaminade Mass, St. Mary’s High School, St. Louis

January 18: Evening, Board Meeting, Chaminade, St. Louis

January 20 & 21: Provincial Council Meetings, St. Louis

Recently, the Marianist Retreat and Conference Center welcomed friends and family to witness the commissioning of its new leadership team. Nathan Martin, newly appointed Executive Director, Paul Masek, Director of Outreach, and Jen Duncan, Director of Hospitality, publicly shared their commitment to the mission and future of the center.

Fr. Oscar presided at Mass and during the liturgy, I had the opportunity to thank the members of the executive committee of the board who continued the mission of the center for more than a year. The province is genuinely grateful for the generosity of Maureen Hoock (board chair), Larry Keller, Jared Bryson and Maria Rodgers O’Rourke.

The Marianist Retreat and Conference Center has provided opportunities for spiritual growth to countless individuals for so many years. We look forward to a vibrant continuation of that mission into the future.

Pictured left to right: Paul Masek, Nathan Martin and Jen Duncan

Take time this week to ask how your community life is inviting and attractive to young adults? And how often does your community invite young adults to participate in community prayer, meals and activities?

January 16: Saju Chittadiyal, Jeffrey Sullivan

January 17: Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday, Province Offices closed