The Marist Way is a spiritual journey modeled on Mary’s humility, faith, and quiet strength, calling Marists to live with openness to God’s will, compassionate service, and deep trust in divine providence. Rooted in the phrase 'In the Way of Mary,' this charism emphasizes humility, presence, and mission, inspiring Marists to serve hidden and unknown, without seeking recognition. It is an inclusive and accessible path, inviting all—both lay and religious—to integrate faith into daily life, embracing a lived discipleship that reflects Mary’s “yes” to God at the Annunciation. Guided by the belief that faith is a continuous journey, the Marist Way calls its followers to be instruments of divine mercy, bringing hope and compassion to those on the margins. In a world that often values power and recognition, the Marist Way offers a gentle, humble alternative—one of service, simplicity, and love.

We invite you to be part of an important conversation on how we can continue the Marist Spirit in St Patricks Church Hill community. With the Marist Fathers set to leave St Patrick’s in December 2025 after 157 years, this is an opportunity to reflect on their legacy and explore ways to develop the Marist spirit. Join us for a discussion led by Marist Laity Australia as we discern the future of the Marist presence at St Patrick’s. Time 10 am to 11 am in the Crypt of St Patrick’s Church Hill. All are welcome!

Richard Rohr begins by emphasizing that transformation is not just about external change but a deep renewal of consciousness. He references Romans 12:2, where Paul speaks of transformation through the renewal of the mind, using the Greek word metamorphosis, which signifies a complete change in form. Rohr argues that much of organized religion teaches people what to see rather than how to see, which hinders true transformation. He stresses that authentic spiritual growth is not about accumulating religious knowledge or following checklists of sacraments but about developing a contemplative mind that allows one to see reality as it truly is, without personal biases or self-interest.

Father Jim’s presentation draws on the imagery of the Australian countryside to illustrate the spiritual message in Jeremiah’s prophecy and Jesus’ teachings. He compares trees planted by water, which remain nourished even in drought, to those who put their trust in God, while those who rely solely on themselves are like dry shrubs struggling to survive. He then connects this message to Jesus’ radical teachings in the Gospel, where blessings are given to the poor and hungry, while warnings are issued to the rich and well-fed. Unlike the more familiar 'poor in spirit' phrasing, Jesus explicitly addresses material poverty and hunger, challenging worldly values that equate wealth and security with success.

The audio presentation “The Art of Being Present” centers on the idea that true fulfillment comes from fully engaging with the moment we’re in. It challenges the modern tendency to become distracted by digital devices and a constant barrage of external stimuli, urging us instead to slow down and reconnect with our immediate surroundings. At its core, the presentation redefines presence as a mindful state where our attention is intentionally focused on the here and now, rather than being pulled into the past or future by worries or habitual multitasking.

Paris, Je T'aime (2006) is an anthology film composed of 18 short segments, each directed by a different filmmaker, set in various neighborhoods (arrondissements) of Paris. The stories explore themes of love, connection, and loss, portraying diverse relationships through encounters between strangers, long-time partners, and families. From a tourist experiencing an unexpected romance to a lonely American woman discovering a new appreciation for life in Paris, each segment captures a unique emotional tone and perspective on love. The film blends various genres. In one of the most poignant segments of Paris, Je T’aime, a man prepares to leave his wife, believing that their marriage has lost its spark. He rehearses his breakup speech, convinced that his love for her has faded, and is ready to move on. However, just as he is about to tell her, she reveals devastating news—she has been diagnosed with leukemia. This revelation abruptly shifts his perspective, as he realizes the depth of his feelings for her and the significance of their shared life.

Each week, Marists are called to gather in prayer, deepening their connection to God, one another, and the Marist mission. Through reflection on the foundation and charism of the Society of Mary, the Gospel of the day, meaningful discussion, common prayer, music, and journaling, Marists create space for spiritual renewal and shared faith. Taking time for prayer and formation is not just an opportunity but a responsibility, as it is through these moments of unity and contemplation that we truly live out the vision of Jesus and Mary, strengthening our commitment to humility, service, and love.

Katie Hood begins by highlighting the universal experience of love and how, despite its importance, people are rarely taught how to love in a healthy way. Many of us enter friendships, romantic relationships, and even parenthood without guidance, often engaging in or experiencing unhealthy relationship behaviors. These can range from subtle actions like guilt-tripping a friend to more severe forms like emotional abuse and control. The Katie Hood emphasizes that everyone, at some point, will both commit and experience unhealthy behaviors, making it crucial to recognize and address them before they escalate into serious harm, including relationship abuse, which affects a significant portion of the population.

This guided reflection 'Embracing Simplicity in a Culture of Excess' explores how modern society promotes materialism, consumerism, and busyness, which often lead to stress and dissatisfaction. It encourages reflection on what truly matters by following the example of Jesus and Mary, who lived simple, faith-centered lives. The document discusses practical ways to embrace simplicity, such as reassessing work-life balance, resisting the urge for financial excess, and making time for stillness. It highlights that choosing a simpler life allows for deeper relationships, greater purpose, and spiritual fulfillment. A series of reflective questions guide readers in evaluating their lifestyle choices, and a final call to embrace simplicity as a Marist value emphasizes the importance of trusting God and being present to others.

Immanence, a key concept in religious thought, refers to the belief that the divine is present within the world and actively involved in human existence, contrasting with transcendence, which emphasizes God's separateness. In Christianity, God's immanence is seen through the Incarnation of Jesus Christ and the Holy Spirit’s presence within believers. Islam highlights divine closeness through Allah’s nearness, as described in the Qur'an, and practices such as prayer and remembrance of God. In Judaism, the concept of Shekhinah represents God's presence dwelling among people, deepened by Jewish mysticism. Hinduism expresses immanence through the belief that Brahman, the ultimate reality, exists within all beings as Atman, while Buddhism teaches that enlightenment is found within, through the Buddha-nature inherent in every individual. Across these traditions, immanence fosters a personal and accessible connection between the divine and humanity, shaping spiritual experiences and moral guidance.