The Marist Way is deeply inspired by the Marist Charism, which calls its followers to live 'In the Way of Mary.' This phrase captures the spirituality of the Marists, who seek to imitate Mary’s quiet strength, her openness to God, and her presence among the early disciples. Mary was a woman of deep faith who lived simply, humbly, and attentively in response to God's call.
'Marists are characterized by the desire to make the mystery of Mary in the Church the daily inspiration of its life and action.' (from Marists.org)
Living in the Way of Mary means approaching life with **humility, patience, and a heart open to God’s will.** This Marian spirituality influences Marist ministries, particularly in education and youth work.
As one Marist school describes:'Doing things in the 'Way of Mary' is to nurture, to teach, to gather, to reconcile, and to journey with young people.' (from Mt Maria College Petrie)
Rather than being centered on doctrine alone, the Marist Charism emphasizes a lived faith that is both **practical and relational:**
'Inspired by the example of Mary, the mother of Jesus, Marists strive to embody her virtues of humility, compassion, and faithfulness.' (from Cardijn College)
To walk in The Marist Way is to embrace a spirituality that is:
Gentle yet strong
Contemplative yet active
Deeply personal yet always in service to others
Humility
Humility is at the heart of the Marist Way, shaping the way Marists live their faith and respond to God's call. The word humility comes from the Latin humilitas, meaning 'lowness' or 'insignificance,' which derives from humilis ('low' or 'on the ground') and ultimately from humus ('earth' or 'soil') (Etymonline). True humility is not about weakness or self-deprecation but about recognizing one's dependence on God and being open to His will.
This concept of humility is profoundly embodied in Mary’s response at the Annunciation:
'Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord; let it be done to me according to your word.' (Luke 1:38)
Mary did not impose her own plans or desires; instead, she **humbly surrendered to God's will**, trusting completely in His purpose for her life. This reflects the very heart of Christian humility—not 'my will,' but 'Thy will be done.'
This same surrender to God’s will is echoed in the Lord’s Prayer, where Jesus teaches us to pray:
'Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.' (Matthew 6:10)
For Marists, to live the Marist Way means following God's will **in the Way of Mary**—with humility, trust, and openness. Marist spirituality calls us to imitate Mary’s way of discipleship, walking humbly with God, placing ourselves at the service of others, and responding with a 'hidden and unknown' presence, rather than seeking recognition.
As one Marist principle states:
'Marists are characterized by the desire to make the mystery of Mary in the Church the daily inspiration of its life and action.' (from Marists.org)
To embrace the Marist Way is to live with Mary’s humility, saying **“yes” to God's call** in our own lives. It is about **being present, serving others quietly, and trusting that God's plan is greater than our own.** Whether in our families, workplaces, schools, or communities, we are called to imitate Mary’s quiet strength and unwavering faith—**always placing God’s will before our own.**
The Word 'Way': A Path for All
The word 'Way' is deeply meaningful because it is **inclusive and accessible.** Unlike rigid theological structures that may feel exclusive, a 'way' is **open-ended**. It does not demand a high level of religious commitment from the outset but instead **invites everyone to journey together,** wherever they may be in their faith or life experience.
This is especially significant for lay Marists, who seek to integrate their faith into their daily lives:
'Lay Marists are ordinary people who follow Jesus in Mary’s way. We make no religious vow or profession but are attentive to God in everyday life.' (from Marist Laity NZ)
By calling itself a 'Way' rather than an 'institution' or 'movement,' the Marist Way embraces a broad and diverse community. The term invites rather than excludes, making room for those who are **seeking, questioning, or rediscovering their faith.** This is reflected in Marist education:
'The Pillars encourage caring relationships, straightforwardness, a sense of belonging, generosity, and modeling oneself after Mary's faith.' (from Marist Premier Catholic College)
At its heart, the Marist Way is about becoming 'instruments of divine mercy'—a concept that applies to all, regardless of background:
'Our charism emerges from our core spirituality of forgetfulness of self so that the grace of God can emerge in all we do for the sake of God's purposes.' (from Society of Mary USA)
Conclusion
To follow the Marist Way is to embrace a **spirituality that is both contemplative and active, deeply personal yet always in service to others.** Rooted in the example of Mary, the Marist Way calls us to live with **humility, trust, and a quiet strength**, surrendering to God's will just as Mary did when she declared:
'Let it be done to me according to your word.' (Luke 1:38)
This journey is not one of grand gestures or public recognition but of **simple, hidden acts of mercy and love.** It is a path of discipleship that echoes Christ’s teaching in the **Lord’s Prayer**— 'Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.' (Matthew 6:10)
Through **education, pastoral care, and social outreach**, Marists become **instruments of divine mercy**, bringing hope and compassion to those on the margins of society.
The word “Way” reminds us that faith is not a fixed state but a **continuous journey, one that welcomes all** who seek to follow in the footsteps of Mary.
In a world that often values power, recognition, and control, the Marist Way offers something different—**a call to walk humbly with God, to live simply, and to be a presence of love, mercy, and faithfulness wherever we go.** By following **Mary’s way**, Marists continue to **reveal Christ to the world**, not through dominance or prestige, but through **gentle service and unwavering faith.**
Journal and reflect on the following
How does the phrase “In the Way of Mary” challenge or inspire your own understanding of discipleship and faith?
In what ways can you incorporate Mary’s humility and openness to God’s will into your daily life?
How does the idea of being “hidden and unknown” in service contrast with modern values of recognition and achievement?
What does it mean for faith to be a continuous journey rather than a fixed destination, and how does this shape your spiritual growth?
How can you become an “instrument of divine mercy” in your relationships, community, and work?
What aspects of the Marist Way—such as simplicity, presence, or mission—resonate most with you, and how can you live them out more intentionally?
How can the inclusivity of the Marist Way inspire a more welcoming and compassionate approach to faith in your personal and communal life?
Discuss
Song - More than memories - Kevin Bates
Final Prayer
Loving God, in the spirit of Mary, we surrender ourselves to Your will, trusting in Your divine plan with humility and faith. Teach us to walk the Marist Way, embracing simplicity, presence, and compassionate service, so that we may be instruments of Your mercy in the world. May we follow Mary’s example, responding with a generous “yes” to Your call, seeking not recognition but the quiet joy of serving others with love. Guide our hearts to be open, our hands ready to serve, and our lives a reflection of Your grace. May we always walk humbly with You, bringing Your peace, justice, and love wherever we go. Amen.
(Audio Available)
