20 December 2024
 In her impactful presentation, Anita Moorjani shares her profound near-death experience (NDE), which provided her with significant insights into living a life filled with purpose and meaning. She emphasizes the importance of living authentically and fearlessly, rejecting societal pressures that push us to conform and hide our true selves. Moorjani describes her own life as previously dominated by fear—fear of illness, rejection, and not being enough—which she believes contributed to her developing cancer. During her NDE, she experienced an overwhelming sense of unconditional love and acceptance, which starkly contrasted with her fear-driven existence. This experience revealed to her that our physical ailments are often deeply connected to our emotional and spiritual states. She stresses that in the moments of her deepest despair and illness, she found clarity and understanding about her purpose in life, which was fundamentally about embracing love and rejecting fear. Post-NDE, Moorjani experienced a miraculous recovery, which she attributes to her newfound understanding and changes in her approach to life. She advocates for a life where decisions are made from a place of love rather than fear, encouraging others to recognize the transformative power of self-acceptance and genuine self-care. Her presentation is a call to live fearlessly, find joy in being true to oneself, and recognize the interconnection between our spiritual well-being and physical health. Moorjani's story is a testament to the healing that becomes possible when we align our lives with love and truth, challenging us to transform our own lives by shedding fear and embracing authenticity. |
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18 December 2024
 The documentary 'Europe's Deadly Migration Policy' explores the human cost of Europe’s border agreements with North African nations, focusing on the plight of migrants and refugees. Migrants, including families with small children, are routinely abandoned in the Sahara Desert or subjected to violence and harsh conditions at the hands of North African border forces funded and equipped by the European Union. These actions, often carried out in remote and unmonitored areas, result in tragic deaths, highlighting the devastating consequences of policies designed to deter migration. |
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09 November 2024
 The documentary 'The Shady Business of Trafficking Desperate Refugees' exposes the harrowing journeys of migrants and refugees fleeing conflict, poverty, and persecution across the Mediterranean to Europe. It details the exploitative networks of human traffickers who profit from their desperation, subjecting them to inhumane conditions and life-threatening voyages in flimsy boats. The film highlights the dire consequences of this migration crisis, including overcrowded reception centers, bureaucratic delays, and tragic drownings at sea. It underscores the moral and political challenges faced by the EU and calls for urgent international action to create safe migration pathways and address the root causes of displacement. Through personal stories, the documentary sheds light on the resilience and suffering of those seeking a better life, urging compassion and accountability. |
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22 October 2024
 Yuko Munakata offers an alternative, research-backed reality that highlights how it's just one of many factors that influence the chaotic complexity of childhood development. A rethink for anyone wondering what made them who they are today and what it means to be a good parent. |
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21 October 2024
 Saint Francis in the 1219 traveled to Egypt to engage with the Islamic sultan Al Kamil during the crusades. Francis went to seek peace. After Francis had approached the Christian generals, they rejected him. Francis stayed in the camp with Sultan in dialogue. There was a mutual understanding and appreciation of each other. |
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25 August 2024
 Dr. Tori Olds' presentation 'Finding Your True Self' explains how our personalities are made up of different parts that develop to protect us from harm, but these parts can sometimes take over and limit our true potential. Through Internal Family Systems therapy, she discusses how we can 'unblend' from these protective parts to access our 'Big S Self'—our true, core self characterized by qualities like compassion, creativity, and courage. By stepping back from conditioned responses, we can unlock our full cognitive and emotional abilities, allowing us to approach life’s challenges with greater wisdom and contribute positively to the world. |
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26 May 2024
 In his speech 'Living Simply,' Francis reflects on the impactful life of a close friend who embraced a minimalist lifestyle, owning barely anything even as a prominent leader. This friend's existence starkly contrasted with societal norms, particularly in his commitment to poverty and charity, principles that proved his integrity when challenged by financial allegations. Francis explores the deeper implications of such a lifestyle, especially in contexts like India, where converting to Christianity often results in severe personal losses. He contrasts this with the casual approach to faith he observes in more affluent societies, urging a reevaluation of what it means to truly live one's faith, inspired by those who sacrifice everything for their beliefs. |
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26 May 2024
 In her TED talk, 'What We Carry for Our Ancestors: Intergenerational Healing,' Serene explores the profound impact of intergenerational trauma, particularly within indigenous communities, and shares personal insights into her journey towards understanding and healing. She discusses how historical oppressions, like the Native American boarding school era, have left deep psychological scars that manifest as internalized and lateral oppression within communities today. Through a personal narrative, including a transformative dream and the story of her late brother's struggles with addiction and trauma, Serene highlights the importance of reconnecting with cultural roots and community practices for healing. She advocates for integrating traditional healing methods with clinical approaches to address the deep-seated pain passed down through generations, ultimately encouraging individuals to confront and transform inherited traumas into a source of strength and renewal |
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23 May 2024
 In 'How do Christians and Catholics Approach Teaching Human Sexuality to Teenagers?' by Andrew Dumas, the author reflects on a lecture about the ethics of sex and sexuality and its reception at his family dinner table, leading to broader considerations on the topic within Christian contexts. Dumas critiques the direct instructional approach, advocating instead for a method rooted in ontological questioning and the deep exploration of love and personal relationships, as modeled by Jesus. He argues that understanding human sexuality in Christian teaching should transcend mere ethical dos and don'ts to foster a foundational love and faith that resonate with God's teachings. This approach, he believes, not only helps in discussing sensitive subjects like sexuality but also aligns with the profound Christian principle of love as the essence of existence and moral guidance. |
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20 May 2024
 Dive into a unique visual journey where artificial intelligence with John Claude Colin. We present a series of five AI-generated artworks that imagine what Marist Father John Claude Colin would look like today. |
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12 May 2024
 Caroline Chisholm, known as 'the emigrants' friend,' was a pivotal figure in the history of early Australian settlement, particularly in aiding women who immigrated to Sydney around 1850. Born Caroline Jones in 1808 in Northamptonshire, she was inspired from a young age by stories of distant lands and the virtues of emigration. After marrying Captain Archibald Chisholm, she moved to Madras, India, where she began her philanthropic work by establishing the Female School of Industry for the daughters and orphans of soldiers. The family later moved to Sydney, where Caroline was struck by the dire conditions faced by female immigrants. She established a home for these women, providing them shelter and work opportunities, significantly improving their lives and the moral conditions of the colony. Her efforts extended to organizing land settlements for families, advocating for family reunification, and influencing emigration policies. Caroline Chisholm's work was characterized by her exceptional organizational skills and deep compassion, leaving a lasting impact on Australian society and the lives of countless immigrants. |
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23 April 2024
 In her TED Talk titled 'The three secrets of resilient people,' Lucy Hone shares profound insights from both her professional research and personal tragedy. Hone, who began her resilience research at the University of Pennsylvania, unexpectedly applied her academic knowledge to her personal life following the tragic death of her daughter, Abby, in a car accident. This devastating event tested her resilience theories in the most personal way possible. Lucy discusses the universality of suffering and the importance of understanding that adversity is an inherent part of human life. This realization helps individuals to not feel unfairly victimized when faced with personal challenges. |
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22 April 2024
 The YouTube video 'Ask Us Anything - Aboriginal People and Torres Strait People' features a series of questions and answers that highlight the experiences, cultural significance, and challenges faced by Indigenous Australians. Participants address casual racism encountered in daily life, such as stereotypes and misconceptions about their heritage. The video also explores the importance of dancing in Indigenous ceremonies as a way to tell stories and pass on history, emphasizing that there is no such thing as a 'bad dancer' in these contexts. |
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22 April 2024
 The ABC Australian Story about Dr. Anne O'Neill offers a profound and emotional narrative of her resilience and recovery following a harrowing family tragedy. At 24, Dr. O'Neill was stalked, harassed, and intimidated by her estranged husband for 18 months. This culminated in a tragic night when he broke into her home and fatally shot their two children before turning the gun on himself, leaving Dr. O'Neill severely wounded and ultimately leading to the amputation of her leg. |
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21 April 2024
 The YouTube clip titled 'Foundation to Raising Mentally Strong Kids' discusses the importance of brain health as the basis for mental strength, emphasizing that many mental health issues are fundamentally brain health issues. It highlights the use of brain imaging studies at the Amen Clinics, which reveal insights from over 250,000 scans, to treat children and adolescents. The clip underscores that psychiatric conditions often stem from the brain's health rather than purely psychological origins. |
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21 April 2024
 'From Refugee to Mayor' is a documentary that follows the inspiring journey of Ryyan Alshebl, a 29-year-old from southern Syria who has resettled in Althengstett, Germany. Originally fleeing war-torn Syria eight years ago and surviving a perilous journey that included a dangerous boat ride to Greece, Ryyan has made a remarkable transition from a refugee to the mayor of Ostelsheim. |
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17 March 2024
 In the podcast 'The Best Thing for Your Marriage' by Francis and Lisa Chan, part of the Crazy Love series, the Chans discuss the importance of setting one's sights on heavenly rather than earthly treasures to foster a godly marriage. They emphasize the need for husbands to lead their families towards spiritual values and for both partners to remember their purpose and identity in Christ. The core message is that marriage is not about individual desires or gains but about serving Christ and embodying the virtues of compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience, and forgiveness, as outlined in Colossians 3. |
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16 March 2024
 The documentary 'Homeless Teenagers Surviving Chicago's Winter' provides a deep and emotional exploration of the lives of young people experiencing homelessness in one of America's largest cities. The narrative unfolds through the personal stories of several teenagers who, despite their circumstances, exhibit resilience, hope, and a desire to improve their situations. |
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07 March 2024
 ABC News reported on a study examining the impact of screen time on toddler's speech and language development. Conducted over 2.5 years with 220 Australian households, the research, led by Dr. Mary Bru from the Ton Kids Institute, involved attaching a Fitbit-like device to toddlers and recording 16 hours of audio daily. The findings revealed that the average 3-year-old might miss out on hearing up to 1,100 words, making 840 vocalizations, and participating in nearly two conversations each day due to screen time. This phenomenon, referred to as 'technoference,' suggests that screens are limiting the amount of language, conversation, and connection children experience, which is crucial for early language development. Speech pathologist Katherine McKinley highlighted that approximately 23% of children are behind in language and literacy development by school age. However, the study also suggests that eliminating screen time is not necessary; rather, the focus should be on moderation and selecting educational content to support children's development. |
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05 March 2024
 Natasha Stott Despoja AO discusses the critical issue of domestic and family violence, highlighting society's high tolerance for disrespect, which can escalate to violence and death. Despite increased awareness and reporting of domestic violence, the number of women dying violently remains steady, with at least one woman murdered every week. Stott Despoja calls for community action to change these statistics, emphasizing the need for primary prevention. This involves addressing the underlying attitudes and behaviors that lead to violence, striving for gender equality, and fostering respect across all societal sectors. She points out that while there is no single solution, taking responsibility at an individual level is crucial. As parents, workers, friends, and leaders, people must oppose sexist behavior and promote positive change. The conversation also touches on recent financial investments by political leaders in combating this violence, with Stott Despoja expressing cautious optimism. She stresses the need for politicians to model respectful relationships and behavior, given the vast social and economic cost of violence against women, estimated at $21 billion per year. She concludes by acknowledging the significant work that remains to be done and thanks organizations leading the fight against this pervasive issue. |
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01 March 2024
 A teen’s opinion on parenting from stereotypes and experience. This talk teaches parents about technology, teen emotions, and types of parents, all from a teen’s perspective. Lucy Androski is 13 years old and just completed her 7th-grade year at Okoboji Middle School. As Lucy is our youngest speaker, she has a unique view on parenting teens. She enjoys music, art, and playing tennis. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. |
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18 February 2024
 The blog explores the teachings of Franciscan Richard Rohr on the transformation of pain, emphasizing that if we do not transform our pain, we inevitably transmit it. It discusses how pain and suffering manifest in various aspects of life, including parenting, marriage, societal injustice, psychological shadows, and spiritual disconnection. Drawing from Jungian psychology, the blog highlights the importance of acknowledging and transforming our inner traumas to prevent them from surfacing in harmful ways later in life.The blog further explores different methods and examples of transforming pain, such as Van Gogh's art, Dietrich Bonhoeffer's writings, sports for mental health, and the supportive nature of groups like Alcoholics Anonymous. It suggests that spiritual practices, meaningful conversations, and creative expressions can be pathways to dealing with pain and suffering, offering a deeper understanding and acceptance of these experiences as part of the human condition.The narrative also delves into the role of pain in spiritual growth, using the story of Mary's experience of pain and presence during Jesus's crucifixion as a metaphor for being fully present in the face of suffering. It concludes by asserting that pain and suffering, when acknowledged and transformed, can open doorways to divine experiences and personal growth, urging readers to embrace these experiences as opportunities for transformation rather than avoiding them. |
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13 February 2024
 This blog explores the crucial role dads play in their children's development by actively engaging in their lives, serving as role models, and guiding them through life's important questions and challenges. |
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06 February 2024
 This interview was conducted in 2014 with father Kevin Bates and Marist Laity Australia. This interview covers a series of theological questions such as 'Does God help?', 'Who is God?', 'Where have you found God most in your life?', 'What do you mean by sacrament?' This is a candid interview where father Kev shares from his own life experience. His answers speak to Marists and non Marists alike. They inspire us to ponder and reflect ourselves questions which call us out of our own ways of seeing. Thank you father Kev. We will miss you.... |
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31 January 2024
 Our dear brother Kevin Bates died peacefully this morning, January 31, at RNSH.
His funeral mass will take place at Holy Name of Mary Church, Hunters Hill, on Wednesday, February 7, at 10.30am. |
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28 January 2024
 Dr. Gabor Maté's lecture 'The Myth of Normal & The Power of Connection' delves into the complex interplay between individual health and societal factors. It underscores the importance of understanding human behavior from a holistic perspective, considering the crucial role of childhood development, societal stress, and emotional connections in shaping mental and physical well-being. The lecture challenges traditional medical dichotomies between mind and body, advocating for a more integrated approach that acknowledges the impact of cultural, racial, and environmental factors. Emphasizing the importance of attachment and connection, it also explores how personal and historical trajectories influence health, advocating for a transformation in health perspectives to include spiritual and ecological dimensions. |
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27 January 2024
 The video titled 'Overcoming Our Struggles' by Amanda Riche details her challenging life journey, including homelessness in Seattle. Amanda speaks candidly about her survival mindset, focusing on the positives despite her circumstances. She recalls a traumatic childhood marked by a drug-addicted mother, an abusive father, and a harrowing experience in foster care. Choosing to dissociate from her pain, Amanda found solace in envisioning joy and love. She expresses gratitude for the kindness shown to her and emphasizes the importance of authenticity, empathy, and community support. Amanda's story culminates in her finding contentment and safety in having a home, attributing her success to the collective support she received. Her wishes reflect a desire for strength, others' well-being, and a world filled with understanding and compassion. Amanda's narrative highlights the beauty and complexity of the world, advocating for interconnectedness and human potential for goodness. |
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24 January 2024
 The YouTube video 'Letting Go Gently - Embrace the Real Treasures' features a reflective narrative centered around themes of personal growth, coping with loss, and finding joy in life's simple moments. The speaker shares her journey of emotional healing and self-discovery following a significant life change, presumably a separation or divorce. |
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16 January 2024
 Few books have stayed in the hearts and minds of parents everywhere as much as Raising Boys. Now in an increasingly complicated and nuanced world, raising boys to become emotionally strong, kind and resilient men is even more important and relevant. In response to calls from parents around the world Steve Biddulph has completely updated and revised his seminal work to include all the latest international information and advice for parents on all the key issues of today. |
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31 December 2023
 Relationships, especially with family, can provide both great joy and painful sorrow. And often, the relationship between a mother and daughter is the most sensitive. Yet the ability to understand another's point of view, their fragility, and your own perceptions can dramatically improve any relationship. And perhaps the most powerful insight of all is forgiveness. Having the ability to forgive not only others, but the ability to forgive yourself, is one of life's greatest superpowers. Idea: The Power of Forgiveness: Making Waves in Human Interaction by Forgiving and Focusing on the Future. |
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29 December 2023
 'Sands of Illusion' is a reflective narrative that charts the journey of life from the innocence of birth to the wisdom at life’s end. The poem captures the various stages of growth, portraying the loss of childhood naivety at a beachside setting where lessons are learned through play and interaction with family. It navigates through adolescence, marked by self-consciousness and the struggle for identity, then into adulthood, where illusions of control and expectations are confronted and redefined. The speaker's life story unfolds amidst personal relationships, parenthood, and the unforeseen challenges of health during a pandemic, leading to a profound understanding of life's transient nature. Finally, it culminates in a peaceful acceptance of death, recognizing a life lived fully and richly, well beyond the constraints of early illusions. |
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22 December 2023
 Barbara Ashwell was a foundation member of Marist Laity Australia in 2003. Barbara was a very active member of Marist Laity Australia for more than 10 years. She attended many Marist Laity Australia reflection days, retreats, ran the Bexley Marist Laity group, was the newsletter editor. Even up until May this year she was zooming with our online Marist Laity events. Barbara passed away on December 19. We will greatly miss her. Please pray for Barbara, her family and many Marists who miss her. |
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22 December 2023
 Saint Barbara, a Christian martyr from the mid-3rd century, was the daughter of a wealthy pagan named Dioscorus, who secluded her in a tower to protect her from outside influences. Despite this, Barbara embraced Christianity in secret. When her father discovered her faith after she had three windows installed in a bathhouse to symbolize the Holy Trinity, he subjected her to cruel tortures. Barbara remained steadfast, experiencing miraculous healings and divine interventions. Ultimately, she was executed by her father, who was immediately struck down by divine lightning. Her steadfastness in faith and her tragic end have made her a symbol of resilience and courage in Christianity. |
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17 December 2023
 Dive into a unique visual journey where artificial intelligence with Jean-Marie Chavion. We present a series of seven AI-generated artworks that imagine what Marist Sister Jean-Marie Chavoin would look like today. Each encapsulates the 18th-century religious habit, the emblematic cross, and the sacred figures of Jesus and Mary set against a backdrop steeped in divine ambiance. |
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17 December 2023
 Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus in 'The Chosen,' surprises a group of young people touring the Utah set of Golan, representing Jerusalem. He shows them around, including the set built to withstand the elements, the area where they film Jerusalem's story, and the Pool of Bethesda set which doubles as a courtyard. Roumie then engages with the group in Provo in a candid conversation about his personal struggles, his faith journey, and how a profound moment of prayer and surrender led to unexpected financial help and eventually to his role in 'The Chosen.' He emphasizes the impact the show has had on people, seeing it as his calling. |
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15 December 2023
 The acute housing shortage in Queensland, Australia, is driving up rents and exacerbating homelessness. Jasmine Sloan, a single mother, became homeless after her rent was raised by $200, forcing her to split up her family over different temporary accommodations. Youth homelessness is also on the rise, with an 88% increase in young people seeking support. The narrative includes the perspective of a 21-year-old student living in a share house, who previously spent three years in a youth hostel. The issue of social housing shortage is highlighted, with the government acknowledging underinvestment and committing to more social and affordable housing projects. The video also touches on the use of motels for emergency accommodation but stresses that a long-term solution is still needed. |
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15 December 2023
 'The Science of Kindness' discusses how engaging in acts of kindness can lead to increased happiness. Contrary to popular self-care mantras that emphasize treating oneself, the video suggests that happiness is more closely linked to altruistic behaviors, such as volunteering, reaching out to friends, and donating money. Studies cited indicate that people who spend money on others tend to be happier than those who spend on themselves, regardless of the amount. Additionally, being kind has benefits beyond emotional well-being, including physical health improvements like reduced blood pressure and stress levels. The advice offered is to perform acts of kindness, which can be as simple as giving compliments, to harness the psychological benefits of such actions and ultimately contribute to personal happiness. |
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10 December 2023
 Michael shares his lifelong connection with the Marist community, which began when he was ten years old and continued through his education with the Marist Brothers at Mossman and later at a high school in North Sydney. His profound admiration for his teachers led him to join the brothers for some time, and although he ultimately left, he continued teaching in Marist schools as a lay teacher and maintained strong friendships within the community. |
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01 December 2023
 In the 'Advent Day 6' video featuring Richard Rohr and Kate Bowler, they discuss the concept of 'necessary suffering' in the spiritual journey. Richard Rohr, drawing from Carl Jung, suggests that people often find themselves on a spiritual path due to challenging life events such as job loss, illness, addiction, or personal brokenness. Kate Bowler shares her experience of feeling surprised and somewhat insulted by her own suffering, noting how she felt like she had failed somehow. They discuss the shame and stigma attached to suffering in modern culture, where suffering can be misconstrued as a personal failure. |
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01 December 2023
 Kate Bowler's speech 'Life Will Break Your Heart' is a powerful and introspective narrative that weaves through her personal journey, beginning with her ambitions and academic pursuits to her unexpected struggle with stage four cancer. Bowler, who specialized in studying the American prosperity gospel, a subset of Christianity that preaches health and wealth as God's rewards for faithfulness, found her life upended by her cancer diagnosis. |
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28 November 2023
 In an era marked by rapid change and global upheaval, the wisdom from Pope Francis' 2022 message for the 55th World Day of Peace rings with renewed urgency. His call for 'Dialogue Between Generations, Education and Work: Tools for Building Lasting Peace' beckons us to rediscover the transformative power of intergenerational learning—a time-honored bridge to harmony and understanding. In a world grappling with the pandemic's aftermath, the Pope underscores dialogue as the essential path we must tread, avoiding the extremes of apathy and upheaval. |
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26 November 2023
 In the TED Talk 'The Real Risk of Forgiveness–And Why It’s Worth It,' Sarah Montana shares her personal journey of grappling with the concept of forgiveness after the murder of her mother and brother. She outlines her struggle to genuinely forgive the perpetrator, a struggle compounded by the societal expectation to quickly forgive. Montana delves into the reasons people forgive, often prematurely, such as to be seen as a good person, to alleviate discomfort for others, or as a perceived shortcut to healing. |
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25 November 2023
 The YouTube video titled 'Oprah Winfrey & Dr. Perry ON: Healing From Childhood Trauma & Becoming Self Aware, Confident Adults' is a discussion hosted by Jay Shetty, featuring Oprah Winfrey and Dr. Bruce Perry. The conversation focuses on their book, 'What Happened to You?' and covers various topics related to childhood trauma, healing, and personal growth. |
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25 November 2023
 These YouTube videos launch Dr. Connie Zweig's book, 'The Inner Work of Age: Shifting from Role to Soul.' The book is intended for individuals over 50 who are feeling disoriented by aging and are looking for tools to help them find peace, forgiveness, self-knowledge, gratitude, meaning, and a way to contribute meaningfully in the latter part of their lives. Dr. Zweig extends her work on the shadow to explore the shadows of age. She discusses the transition from identifying with our roles in work and family to a deeper, spiritual identity that emerges as we age and our roles fall away. This shift is described as a transformation from role to soul. |
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11 November 2023
 In 1806 Jeanne-Marie Chavoin met the clerical student destined by God to play an important part in her spiritual formation. She was to feel the benefit of his guidance up to the last year of her long life. At the time of their first meeting, Jean-Philibert Lefranc was twenty, the same age as herself. He was Father Guillermet's nephew, and spent his holidays at Coutouvre. |
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08 November 2023
 True belonging is about a spiritual practise. It is about an ability to find sacredness in both being a part of something but also the courage to the stand alone. For those of us who have the courage to stand alone especially when we know that we are risking that sense of being a part of something because we disagree and because we have a different opinion, because we love something different. That is the mark of true belonging. The ability to say yes I belong, but also to stand alone when I need to. |
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05 November 2023
 Sheryl Sandberg's TED Talk, 'Why we have too few women leaders,' addresses the issue of women's underrepresentation at the highest levels of professional sectors worldwide. She begins by sharing staggering statistics: out of 190 heads of state, only nine are women; women hold just 13% of parliamentary positions globally; and they make up a meager 15-16% of C-level jobs and corporate board seats, a figure that has been stagnant since 2002 and is, in some cases, declining. |
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05 November 2023
 This episode features Dr.Greene's last day working at the ER and finally coming to terms with the fact he is going to die and he wants to die the way he lived his life. Fans of the show will notice many heartbreaking moments in this episode. Like when he tells the patient that he too knows what it is like to be dying. The 2 most painful moments are when he is leaving for the last time. When he is walking toward the door he makes eye contact for the last time with his longtime crush, Dr.Lewis, and as he walks to the door he responds to Abby's goodnight with a crushing 'goodbye'. The final scene between Greene and Carter passes the torch from one to the other, but in doing so leaves a huge void the show has never filled. Dr. Greene set the tone. |
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05 November 2023
 In this TED Talk, Michael Kimmel, a sociologist known for his work on masculinity and gender equality, shares a powerful narrative about the invisibility of privilege, particularly as it pertains to race and gender. Kimmel recounts an eye-opening experience where a conversation about race with women of different backgrounds made him realize his own race and gender were invisible to him due to his privilege as a white man. This privilege, he notes, is invisible to those who have it. |
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05 November 2023
 Dr. Dawson emphasizes looking at both strengths and weaknesses when assessing executive skills. Celebrating strengths can empower children to tackle challenges, such as a child with dyslexia harnessing goal-directed persistence to overcome reading difficulties. |
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29 October 2023
 My children attended a public primary school, where, as you entered the grounds, amidst the vast stretches of verdant ovals, four flags stood tall and proud. Each bore a word, representing the core values of the school. The word 'responsibility' prominently stood out among them. As a parent, and more so as a father, this word resonates deeply with me. Responsibility is, after all, our mantle to bear. If we, as guardians, falter in our responsibilities, how can we expect children to uphold the same values? |
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27 October 2023
 I like to think of the Church as this simple and humble people who walk in the presence of the Lord (the faithful people of God). This is the religious meaning of our faithful people. And I say faithful people so as not to fall into the many ideological approaches and schemes with which the reality of the people of God is “reducedâ€. Simply faithful people, or also, “God’s holy faithful people†on the way, saind and sinner. And this is the Church. |
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01 September 2023
 The keynote speaker, Professor Marcia Langton AO, is introduced as a notable figure in Indigenous rights advocacy and discusses the importance of constitutional recognition and the proposed Voice to Parliament, emphasizing practical implications beyond symbolism. The presentation also delves into Australia's history of constitutional reform and the impact of apologies, shedding light on ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities and the need for constitutional reform. |
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25 August 2023
 In a segment featured on the 7.30 TV program, Indigenous elders from Bowraville candidly reflect on their past experiences and share their perspectives on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament. The discussion provides insights into their personal histories, memories of historical events, and their opinions on the current push for Indigenous rights. The elders express a range of emotions and thoughts, highlighting the impact of past referendums and experiences of exclusion. Annie B balangari discusses the 1967 referendum on Indigenous rights, emphasizing the importance of being counted in the census. She remembers the negative impact of the question on Indigenous people and the subsequent widespread support for the 'yes' vote, but also acknowledges pockets of racial intolerance that surfaced.The elders delve into their memories of Bowraville, a town with a history of exclusion of Indigenous people from hospitals and schools. They reveal the pain associated with such experiences and discuss the ongoing challenges faced by their community. |
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20 August 2023
 Amy Cuddy's talk revolves around the concept of nonverbal expressions of power and how they influence our thoughts, feelings, and physiology. She begins by proposing a simple no-tech life hack: changing your posture for just two minutes can have a significant impact. She asks the audience to audit their current body language and notes that people often make themselves smaller, hunch, or close up in various ways. She emphasizes that nonverbal behavior, or body language, communicates not only with others but also with ourselves. |
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18 August 2023
 Rachel Perkins, an Australian filmmaker, director, and activist, has been involved in advocating for Indigenous rights and reconciliation. While I don't have specific details on her discussions about the Aboriginal Voice to Parliament, truth-telling, agreement-making, and constitutional recognition, I can provide you with a general overview of the topics she may address based on her previous statements and activism. |
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11 August 2023
 In the original film Shrek, Shrek talks to the donkey about being like an onion with layers. Stating “Ogres are like onions. We both have layers.â€Each of us have these layers that need to be stripped away. Sometimes these layers unnecessary as they are, allow us to operate and exist in various settings such as at work, at school, or in our family environments. We have different roles and different expectations. We may even behave differently. |
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07 August 2023
 This powerful story follows the remarkable Tamara Sloper-Harding as she returns to East Timor to help rebuild the nation of East-Timor. Tamara served with the Australian military in 1999 following the end of the barbaric occupation of Timor by Indonesia. This experience changed Tamara's life and formed a life-long relationship with the country, resonant of the experience of WW2 Australian commandos who fought in Timor. |
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25 July 2023
 In this passionate and heartfelt speech, Aboriginal Elder Avon Worlden identifies themselves as a representative and elected Deputy Chairperson of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council, acting as the cultural authority for their people. They acknowledge the absence of proven traditional owners at Ground Zero, but assert their knowledge of the Aboriginal Land Rights Act for the land and waterways they occupy. |
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14 July 2023
 In today's world, where materialism and superficiality often take center stage, it becomes crucial to guide young minds toward developing a genuine sense of beauty—one that transcends external appearances. Recently, I had a heartfelt conversation with my niece about body image and clothing choices. It made me reflect on the invisible aspects of beauty and the importance of nurturing self-worth and self-esteem in our loved ones. |
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13 July 2023
 With great sadness, we pray for Marist Father Michael Mullins suddenly passed away near the day of his 58th Ordination Anniversary a few days prior. |
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10 July 2023
 In this presentation, Aboriginal Elder Miriam Rose welcomes the audience to the Daily River region, acknowledging the traditional owners of the land. She shares her personal connection to the land and expresses gratitude for the opportunity to live there. Miriam Rose discusses her upbringing, including being raised by her uncle, who was a police tracker, and her journey into education. She emphasizes the importance of art and culture in education and the role of storytelling in Aboriginal traditions. Miriam Rose also talks about the Miriam Rose Foundation, which she established to support young people in the community. She shares the challenges faced by the community, including the loss of young lives to suicide, and highlights the significance of walking together and understanding each other's cultures. Miriam Rose discusses her faith, the role of spirituality in her life, and the concept of Didi (deep listening) in Aboriginal spirituality. She expresses the need for greater understanding and dialogue between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, emphasizing the importance of listening and learning from each other. Miriam Rose concludes by discussing her role as an elder and the ongoing responsibility to support and guide the community. |
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18 June 2023
 Journalist Kerry O'Brien joins Tom Ravlik to discuss the release of a new book called 'The Voice to Parliament Handbook' written by Thomas Mayer. The book aims to provide a clear understanding of the Voice to Parliament referendum in Australia, which will take place later in the year. O'Brien explains that the handbook is a response to the confusion and misinformation surrounding the referendum. As a journalist with extensive experience covering indigenous issues, O'Brien believes that the handbook will help clarify the simple proposition of the voice and shed light on the history and background of previous attempts to establish an indigenous voice in the government and policymaking process. While O'Brien and Mayer openly support the Yes campaign, they are committed to providing factual information and fostering a better understanding of the issue. |
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06 June 2023
 The inspirational story of the Marist Brothers who are present in the world today wherever there are children and young people in need of support and accompaniment. Whether it be in humble schools, slums, or large urban centers, the Marist Brothers strive to be by their side, embodying the presence of Mary. Their mission extends to diverse contexts, from the orchards of Uruguay to the heart of bustling cities, from football fields to areas in need of healing and access to WiFi. The Marist Brothers are driven by their deep affection for children and young people, rooted in their DNA of brotherhood. Their ultimate goal is the transformation of lives and the affirmation of human dignity. Through their fraternal identity, they offer a gift to the world, providing care and guidance to children and young people, nurturing their spirits and cherishing their well-being. This charism is the cornerstone of their mission in serving the needs of children and young people in today's world. |
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06 June 2023
 Tony Clark is a Marist Brother hailing from the River Inn of New South Wales. He has dedicated several years of his life to serving others, including his recent work in South Africa and a long tenure in Timor-Leste. Tony's extensive experience also includes significant contributions to the Marist Brothers in Melbourne and Perth.... |
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03 June 2023
 This video discusses the four traditional styles of parenting: authoritarian, permissive, authoritative, and neglectful. Each style is characterized by different approaches to control, warmth, and responsiveness. The effects of these parenting styles on children's development are explored through the lives of four fictional children. |
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21 May 2023
 We pray for John Norris who passed away during the week. John was the husband of our long-standing member Val Norris. Please pray for John and his family in your communities. We pray and thank God for the life of John. |
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11 March 2023
 'Women, Leadership and the Synodal Process: Where to Now?' was an event held on 2 February 2023 in Sydney, with Xavierian Missionary Sister Nathalie Becquart XMCJ, who is one of the most senior women within the Vatican, and indeed one of its most influential figures because of her leading role at the Secretariat for the Synod of Bishops. The Synod is set to address the most important topics facing the Church today and she will have a decisive say on shaping the future of our Church. |
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08 February 2023
 In 1948 Aurora Marin arrives with her family at the convent of the Canossian Sisters of Schio, Italy, where Sister Bakhita has just died. Aurora was hoping to see her before she died. She gathers her children around the picture of Bakhita and tells them of the incredible life of the woman that had raised her as her nanny. |
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29 January 2023
 When reporter Nick McKenzie received a tip-off about this story last year, he couldn’t believe what he was being told. Twelve months of investigating though has not only confirmed it, but also established it is much worse than he first thought. In a joint 60 MINUTES, The Age and The Sydney Morning Herald special report, McKenzie exposes what could be one of Australia’s largest human trafficking operations. What he has discovered are vulnerable Asian woman being coerced into enduring shocking conditions as sex workers. In fact, their treatment is so poor that even police admit not enough is being done to help them. Meanwhile the crime bosses make huge profits off this multi-million-dollar industry, while making a mockery of Australia’s supposedly strict border security. |
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29 January 2023
 In 1907 a group of young Irish nuns came ashore in one of Australia’s most rugged and inhospitable regions - the far northwest. Their task was to 'civilise and evangelise' the local Aboriginal people, first at Beagle Bay then the notoriously wild pearling town of Broome.This epic story of the Sisters of St John of God is set against one of the darkest and untold periods of Australia’s past where slavery, leprosy, Japanese attack and brutal government policies impacted on the local Aboriginal people.Using rare archival material, re-enactments and contemporary anecdotes, the shared experiences of the Aborigines and the Sisters create a compelling story of loss, determination and survival. |
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26 January 2023
 Catholic schools have always been charged with a special mandate to offer hope to those who are disadvantaged, and this special attention for those who are weakest, who are the battlers, is as Australian as Eureka and Penola. Australian Catholic education has been hailed as a jewel and the envy of other nations. Even from the early days, the concern to provide a religious education for Catholic families in the colony galvanised the bishops of Australia. Their vision was brought to life by religious men and women who responded courageously to the invitation to give opportunity to young Catholics. These were mostly poor, socially disadvantaged and in the post-war period, immigrant children. This special attention to them in Catholic education has not been diminished with the transition from religious to lay leadership. A strong commitment to professional development, especially in respect of the mission, identity and ethos of Catholic schools, continues to guide us to meet the challenges of the 21st Century. |
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26 January 2023
 It is the most powerful things I have done is to learn to embrace my body. After I bought into those messages which told me I should look a particular way to make me happy again. I trained my body obsessively and I got the body. But, I was not happy. When Taryn posted her traditional before and after photos it may headlines around the world. People of all different shapes and sizes need to learn how to embrace the body they have. There is a global epidemic of body shaming of people hating their bodies and it needed a bigger solution. |
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23 January 2023
 If people are sitting on the floor, try to spend some time on the floor as well – try not to always be standing above them. It can be helpful to use a handout or projector at these times, that the focus is not you, but rather focus away from you. You are not the most important person in the room. |
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21 January 2023
 This morning my son and I had an appointment with the skin doctor. It is important to regularly get your skin checked out. My son was very resistant saying “no I do not want to see the doctorâ€. He stayed in bed arguing. I said to him that it is important to get your skin checked out regularly. He ignored me. I then said “Life is hard. Once you accept that life is difficult you are more able to move through itâ€. This reminded me of the opening pages of Scott Peck’s book The Road Less Travelled. |
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17 January 2023
 How to deal with uncertain liminal space? |
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04 January 2023
 Many tensions within a relationships can be looked at within a concept used within psychotherapy. The idea of rupture and repair. For psychotherapists every moment can be a moment of frustration or rupture. When we suffer a loss of trust within another person in someone we can safely deposit our love and where we believe who can be kind and understanding of our needs. The ruptures can be quite small and the outside observers and outside observers see them as imperceptible. |
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31 December 2022
 I would like to tell you a story of a little boy in Sweden. That boy was me. My dad hit me. I walked in front of the TV and dad hit me. When you get abuse at home you have 2 choices. Fight or flight. But, I learnt later there is a third choice. You freeze. By the time I was 11 or 12 I was drinking. My dad sent me to live with my grandparents. They talk care of me. |
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24 December 2022
 Social anxiety at Christmas time. There can be a lot of build up. We need to manage expectations at this time. Make people aware. Christmas is a lot about expectations. Like what are the presents? We need to let people know ahead of time. In the social environment some move into become over functioning and take over. Whilst others under functioning where you with-drawl and move away. Christmas can be a drowning time. It is okay for people to step away. To self sooth. We don't need to do the same thing at the same time. |
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20 December 2022
 This video explores the burden often placed on parents to prepare for Christmas and how families can think a little bit differently to prepare. |
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17 December 2022
 A question that arises as one reads through these letters is: Why was there such 'a longhistory' of some eighty-six years between Françoise Perroton’s setting out on board theL’Arch d Alliance in 1845 and the recognition of the Congregation she was to launch 'asan Institute of Pontifical Right under the jurisdiction of the Sacred Congregation ofPropaganda Fide by the Decree of Approbation of 30 December, 1931'? |
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14 December 2022
 The early development of the Marist Sisters through Jeanne Marie Chavoin and Marie Jotillon. |
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14 December 2022
 For many years people would quote 'to live is to change and to change often is to be perfect'. Many people would say Newman was a liberal. But this is far from the truth. In his first cardinals speech he argued against the claim that there is no objective truth in matters of religion. He is not advocating change for the sake of change. Newman knew that precisely because of ideas unfold they can unfold positively or negatively. But growth can be an authentic development of an implicit truth..... |
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14 December 2022
 I remember the 19th of February was one of the happiest days of my life. We had bowling between friends. We had a competition between friends. It was a normal and happy day of my life. The 23rd of February was the last day I saw and met my classmates. On the 24th of February you woke with loud noises and they turn out to be being rain-down on Kharkiv..... |
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13 December 2022
 200 years ago the Marist Brothers were founded. Marcellin Champagnat founded an order of brothers committed to helping the young people of the world. As part of the Brothers Today Secretariat’s project to commemorate the Bicentenary, visual storyteller Conor Ashleigh, a former Marist student from Australia, has been photographing and interviewing Marist Brothers around the world. This is the first in a series of short film he has made. The theme of this short film echoes the original dream of Marcellin 200 years ago: Serving God through the service with children and young people. |
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12 December 2022
 On Dec 08 during Mass at St Joseph’s College, Hunters Hill, celebrating the Immaculate Concepton the new Star of the Sea Province of the Marist Brothers was inaugurated. Visiting Superior-General, brother Ernesto Sanchez FMS, officially announced the closure of the Australian Province and District of Oceania and invited brother Peter Carroll to assume the role of leader of a new province embracing Pacifc and southeast Asian countries. |
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11 December 2022
 Jonathan Roumie who plays Jesus in the series 'The Chosen'. Seeing himself as a flawed human being and questions why did he end up here? Why is he deserving? He has moments where he has questioned God. Why are you bringing me through all of this if it is not going to amount to something. |
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02 December 2022
 The spirituality of these groups was based on what Justin Taylor would describe as a sub-school of Jesuit mystical spirituality that developed from the teachings of three Jesuits - Louis Lallemant (1578-1635), Jean-Joseph Surin (1600-1665), and Francois Guillord (1615-1684). The three mystical elements that they advanced were the spirituality of all the baptized with its integral missionary dimension, the concept of Jesus as model, and the spirituality of - a term which will be discussed below. These three elements may be discovered in the letters as a universal/missionary, Marian spirituality of 'assimilation'. |
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02 December 2022
 Everyone is aware that there is a crisis in marriage and family life, and no one knows what to do about it. Some people see that crisis only too clearly as the marriages of their children and their friends break down. It is clear in the abundance of one-parent families, and in the prevalence of divorce, ill-health, depression and suicide. Neither the Church nor the wider society seems to know what to do about this crisis. |
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29 November 2022
 In nineteenth century France, the impact of the two great forces of the French and Industrial Revolutions had had a traumatic effect on all aspects of French life. The structures that underpinned French society, previously based on feudalism and agriculture, were replaced by urbanization and industry. Such powerful forces of change created a mindshift in all things French that the Restoration Charter of 4 June, 1814, could not reverse. Among all other facets of French life, the religious dimension was radically changed. This then is the context that must be studied in order to determine the origin and nature of the spirituality expressed in the letters of the Pioneers. |
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27 November 2022
 I have 22 mug shots lying in the Victorian prison system. I am proud that I am a survivor with those photos. I am a member of the Stolen Generation. Survivor. Spend many of my time in jail. Jail was a useful tool for me. It was some kind of respite from my activities of being on the streets. From being homeless. Being addicted to Heroin. Thank God I was sleeping in a bed and had something to do in jail. I taught ceramica in prison. I started a pottery shop. I called it psycho ceramica because you had to be a crack pot to be there in the first place.... |
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27 November 2022
 The number of people unaffiliated with any church or religious organisation has been on the increase. They are sometimes called the NONES. These are often people who describe themselves as spiritual but not religious. This is the fastest-growing denomination in America. Notice they do not want to call themselves Atheists. These are people who are very much in search mode. Who are looking. They are looking for meaning. These are people who are seeking some kind of path in life. They really do not like the doctrine and institutional structures through which we have inherited much of the Christian message. They want ot get at what is essential. They touch on the mystery and depth without all the furniture which goes along with it... |
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26 November 2022
 What does it mean to be a leader that leads from the heart? Many years ago I started a new role in a new company. One of my first assignments was to lead an investigation for a transformational program that had gone extremely badly. The client was very upset with how the company was performing. In most cases we had lost trust with the client. |
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25 November 2022
 Being a parent is a very difficult job. When our children at different ages place demands on us. When they are born there is a continuous stream of nappies. When they are 2 they wake up at 2 am throwing up. As young children at 5 they want our attention. Mummy! Daddy! As teenagers they want to rebel. As young adults they confuse us and maybe do things we would not do ourselves. Then parents have outwards pressures like keeping a job to pay the bills. Like cleaning and tidying the house. Like mowing the lawn or tending the garden. Finally, parents have relational issues. Will the relationship stay together? As both spouses grow, they change both mentally, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Do our spouses grow with us? Do they accept our changes? Do they want to spend quality time that nurture an already stretched relationship? |
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25 November 2022
 In 1845, a Frenchwoman from Lyon embarked on board the Catholic mission vessel L 'Arch d' Alliance for an eleven month voyage that would take her to the island of Wallis (Ovea) in Oceania. For this intrepid woman, Mademoiselle Francoise Perroton, this journey, taken at the age of forty-nine, was no sudden impulse. She was to write that 'From 1820 I had my heart set on being one of those whom God calls to do the work of missionaries'. |
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22 November 2022
 Who first attracted you to the Marists?What do you like about the Marist lifestyle?What is your best experience as a Marist in the missions?What advice would you give a young person considering religious life?Who is your favourite Marist figure? |
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22 November 2022
 Every single one of us knows something about family. Every single one of us is someone's child. Therefore has experienced parenting. Some of us are parents have have our own children. I have four. As human beings we all familiar with expectations. Expectations laid on us to succeed in life. Expectations at work to deliver. To be affective. To know not to fail. Expectations for parents to juggle personal and professional lives. Eat healthy food. Prepare our children healthy meals every day. |
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14 November 2022
 In the last few weeks of this liturgical year our scripture readings focus on the last things including death, judgement, heaven and hell. Today's readings sound dire and indeed they are because Jesus and the prophet Malachi before him speak of a persecution which is to come. We know in history Jesus followers were often persecuted often to death in the early years and centuries after Jesus. We can use this history as a springboard as Jesus followers still suffer in parts of the world because of their faith. There are also people persecuted because of their political elegance or sexual orientation or other faiths such as the Muslim Uyghurs. Today I would like to reflect of suffering that happens closer to home and that is within families and intimate relationships. |
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10 November 2022
 Please support Zahra, her family and all the other families that were detained on Nauru for so many years in the name of the Australian Government. Offshore detention has ruined people's lives and Australia has a duty of care to them. We are calling for everyone who was randomly sent to Nauru and Manus to be granted permanent protection in Australia. Here is Zahra's story, one of so many, that illustrates the horror of the Offshore detention regime and the damage it has done to people. |
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08 November 2022
 As kids grow into being teenagers the needs of kids change. Often growing up, dads seem to work a lot more, spending less quality time with their children. This is due to work demands but also cultural norms which often see mum playing an increasing parenting role. But teenagers need dad’s presence just as much as they do mum. |
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04 November 2022
 Zahra, her husband, and 3 children have been in Australia for the past 4 years. Her eldest daughter won 2 scholarships to uni, the middle daughter is at high school and the little boy starts school next year. Zahra has a cleaning business, her husband works 6 days a week as a tiler. But their life is far from normal. |
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29 October 2022
 Just for a moment I want you to imagine that you are 4 years old. You are on the ground building a tower. In the next minute a kid comes running along and kicks over your tower and you are outranged. You feel these feelings bubbling inside of you of hurt, panic and frustration and helplessness. Just in that moment an adult comes in. Gets up close and says “Honey. What happened?†You see in their eyes there is compassion. You feel that their body is calm and regularity. All those feelings come bubbling out. Frustration. The anger. The helplessness. This out goes “oww…yeah….tell me all about itâ€. They do not fix it. They do not say to you “don’t worry you can build another oneâ€. They just let you feel all that you are feeling. They open their arms. You snuggle in. And you feel better….then you can get back to building your tower. |
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27 October 2022
 In a cultural where we like to fix or prevent vulnerability Brené Brown is reviving the notion that our struggles make us who we are. This is based on data and scientific research first into shame and then into qualities that distinguish lives with a strong sense of worthiness. There is a gulf between what we want to be true and what is true in vulnerability between men and women. She talks about the difference between making our children happy and raising engaged human beings. |
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27 October 2022
 Ask one of the children residing in a Brownsville, Texas unaccompanied minors' shelter if they have ever met an angel and they might just say, 'Yes, actually, an older fellow with white hair and a big belly and a bigger laugh who brought us into his church and fed us pizza and soft drinks even though the shelter staff told him that he couldn't do that.' |
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24 October 2022
 Perhaps we are too apt to think of the Foundress of a religious congregation in the Church as a mighty soul breathing on the earth and finding new branches of her movement, all shining, complete and wanting for nothing, in the place where she has breathed. This is, to some extent, the inner truth. For it is the spirit that quickeneth, the bricks and mortar of themselves being profitless. But in the field of practicaliÂties, the foundation of each house is a matter of hard work, of courage to face a host of difficulties, patience to attend to a swarming mass of detail. We find all this in Mother St. Joseph's search for a house towards the close of 1835. Â¥any possibilities were envisaged and exÂplored. But to no avail. Thus hopes that seemed bright and promising in the dioceses of Grenoble, Gap, Belley and Lyons came to nothing. Finally, negotiations were happily concluded and preparations begun for the opening of a convent at Meximieux, about eighteen miles outside Lyons. |
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23 October 2022
 On Friday October 21 former staff and students of Marist Sisters College gathered to celebrate Sister Fidelis 60 years as a Marist sister. Many of the years were serving the Woolwich community as leader and principal. Today Sister Fidelis serves the St Patrick's community as Parish secretary. Most Saturday and Sunday mornings she wakes up at 4 am to prepare to coordinate St Patricks efforts to feed the homeless of Sydney. Sister Fidelis is passionate and faith filled leader who would encourage you to come along to the new program she is running called 'The Chosen' event on Sundays at 2 pm at St Patricks Church Hill (See http://www.maristlaityaustralia.com/2030/Events/808.php). It was great to catch up with so many friends and Marists as we remembered the goodness that Sister Fidelis and Mary has brought us. |
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23 October 2022
 Let it go. Let it roll right off your shoulder. Don't you know?The hardest part is over. Let it in. Let your clarity define you. In the endWe will only just remember how it feels |
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23 October 2022
 When my dad got his license back in the 1930s the police officer asked him to drive around the block which took less than 5 minutes and he got his driver’s licence. There were real problems with car accidents, so as the decades rolled by the hurdles to get a car license in Australia got much harder. This was in the view to protect and keep safe people. |
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22 October 2022
 The quietness of the town of Belley and the splendour of its panorama were an ideal setting for a convent. And 'Bon Repos', perched on a hill overlooking the town just opposite the opening into which the Rhone pours its tempestuous waters, offered an escape from the noises of the world. For over a century it was the Mother House of the congregation, the only house returned to the Marist Sisters after the 1903 religious persecution. |
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21 October 2022
 Overcoming bad inner voices. We don't often think about it and may never discuss it with others at all, but pretty much everyone has voices in their heads. A murmuring stream of thoughts that run along our minds most of the time. Sometimes the inner voices are encouraging calling you to run those final few yards. 'You are nearly there. Keep going. Keep going'. Or urging you to come down because you know it will be okay in the end. But sometimes, the inner voice is not very nice at all. It is defeatist, punitive and panic ridden, and humiliating. It does not represent anything like our best insights or most mature capacities. |
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21 October 2022
 Domestic and family violence and abuse are a plague on our society. Far too many people do not feel safe in their own homes. And really, the time has come for this to stop. Our relationships should be marked by equality and reciprocity, rather than dominion and violence, respect and freedom, rather than coercion and control. Far too often, some use false religious teachings or beliefs, to justify these destructive attitudes and behaviours. |
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20 October 2022
 'I WENT at once to Cerdon,' says Jeanne-Marie Chavoin in her brief memoir, 'to fix up about our leaving Coutouvre, which we did as soon as possible.' The invitation to Cerdon brought peace of soul. All doubt had vanished, leaving in its stead the certainty that at last God's hour had come. |
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19 October 2022
 At a time when apostates were quite common, Pierre and Jean-Claude Colin came of staunch and deeply Catholic stock. Their father, Jacques Colin, died a fugitive for his religion barely a month after the death of his sorrowing wife. This heroic woman had encouraged his resistance to the enemies of the Faith, had told him to die rather than submit to their demands. Known for her piety during life, Madame Colin's last act was to confide her young children to the care of Our Blessed Lady. Sebastian Colin, a paternal uncle and prosperous cotton weaver, took the orphans to his home and brought them up as members of the family. |
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16 October 2022
 Marists, and one feels that he is concerned that this perhaps has not taken place, or is not taking place in the lives of many Marists. Many Marists are in this 'second conversion'' time of life. In this article I am thinking of those who are either beginning, or already experiencing the second half of lite. to help us understand what is taking place within us, and what challenges lie before us; in the hope that, being freed from the fears that lack of awareness brings, we will be able to embark |
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16 October 2022
 The Uluru Statement from the Heart was both historic and practical, laying out a way that the relationship between Indigenous Australia and the Commonwealth could be reset. Now the campaign for a Voice to Parliament is moving into a new phase, as chief political correspondent Laura Tingle reports. |
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15 October 2022
 This story are by no means a deep study of Jeanne-Marie Chavoin's spirituality. That will come later from a more able pen. This is just a straight forward, homely sketch-a modest attempt to gently lift the veil of silence which enshrouds her. May shepardon the liberty, since God is glorified in his works. A realist approach has been our aim-to let Jeanne Marie speak and act naturally without being encumbered by undue literary padding or personal commentary. |
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10 October 2022
 Around the age of 12 our children start thinking for themselves saying things like “I don’t want to go to churchâ€, and “Why do we have to go to church?†When around 1910, Pope Pius 10 did not do us a favour by making weekly church attendance compulsory. Children and adults need to form a love for God and a desire to engage with God’s community freely. But at a young adult, they may not have the emotional or spiritual maturity to do so. Mixed into this we, have a western culture which prioritises the individual. Where all pain seems bad. Where do things against the flow of our culture seems not right. |
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06 September 2022
 We are very much in a time of balance - in between crisis and challenge. To say that we are living in a changing world hardly sounds a new topic for reflection or consideration. Cardinal Newman said: 'to live is to change, and to become perfect is to have changed often.' |
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12 July 2022
 We are born restless. We are very complex in our nature. We are very driven and complex in our sexuality. The majority of people including Christians have trouble connecting that to God. I do not use this expression lightly “God smiles on usâ€. |
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12 July 2022
 Be realistic of what happiness is. In the torment of the insufficiency of everything attainable we come to understand that here, in this life, all symphonies remain unfinished. |
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10 July 2022
 I am going to teach you another way to process emotions. This is a powerful way to process all the jumble of emotions that are all up in your head. Therapists have this phrase 'make the implicit explicit'. You might think you are doing something wrong. But what the academics are saying take something inside your head and to make it clear. Solid. External. Something you can physically touch almost. One thing that is common among all therapy is making the implicit explicit. Taking the vague and making it solid. This is an effective way to solve problems. To resolve internal conflicts and too sooth painful emotions. |
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04 July 2022
 It has been some time since Marist Laity Australia (MLA) produced a newsletter and so we reconnect with you today and invite you to read on and contribute to future editions if you would like to share some news. |
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03 July 2022
 No one wants to be cynical. No one wants to have an old heart. What you want is that you have stumbled into a mysterious work of art. Also known as your life. What you want is that you have been participating in an unprecedented phenomena this entire time and you just now are becoming aware of it. What you want is joy. |
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03 July 2022
 Teenagers love their phones. All day. Every day. Even at night. And while there are lots of really great things about smartphones, there are so many pitfalls — strangers, bullying, porn, sexting. How do you guide your teenager's digital life? Find out when Maggie Dent talks with Dr Ginni Mansberg, GP and co-author of The New Teen Age, a book which looks at what teenagers are up against on their devices. |
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03 July 2022
 Steve Biddulph likes to remind us that humans are 'big sensitive mammals' with needs for connection and self awareness. |
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30 June 2022
 When you are married in a Christian or Catholic Church, you are often asked the question “do you promise to raise your children in the Christian faith and guide them?†But when couples have babies, things start to get busier and busier. As children they grow, there are more and more demands on parents. In the busyness of life, we forget the original words and our promise. But are they first about words of faith? Saint Francis said, “preach the Gospel and where necessary use wordsâ€. This suggests that we are called to primarily embody the Gospel, rather than starting with religious words. Can we teach the Gospel without even speaking. Could the words that we use, are rather the fruits of our lived experience. But we often place things the other way around. Words first. Karl Rahner said “the Christian of the future will be a mystic, otherwise there will be no Christianâ€. The Christian of the future must move more deeply than just the words we use. |
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26 June 2022
 Since the war in Ukraine began, more than 3,000 refugees have arrived here in Australia. But while waiting for news of their humanitarian visas, many have found themselves needing shelter and guidance. Reporter Amelia Moseley followed the journeys of two mothers and their children all the way into Australian homes. |
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26 June 2022
 On February 1st 2021, the government in Myanmar was overthrown in a military coup. Aung San Suu Kyi is now being held in prison and hundreds of protestors have been shot on the streets. For many decades, Christians and Muslims have been at the hard end of military oppression. Now the Buddhist majority are feeling the crack of the whip. To discuss Myanmar’s turbulent history and the current crisis, Ernie Rea is joined by Soe Win Than (Editor of the BBC Burmese Service), Khin Ohmar (a democracy and human rights activist noted for her leadership in the 1988 uprising in Myanmar) and by Benedict Rogers (Senior Analyst for East Asia at Christian Solidarity Worldwide). |
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26 June 2022
 Asia’s culture and religion go hand in hand, said the cardinal, who also serves as the president of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences. He called the culture and religions – including Buddhism, Islam, and Catholicism – “very rich, very diverse.†|
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25 June 2022
 Maggie Dent grew up in the country and she always felt she 'spoke bloke'. As a high school teacher and a family counsellor, she discovered she had a real affinity for teenage boys, and understood how to communicate with them. |
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19 June 2022
 I first met the Marist Missionary Sisters in Jamaica, where I was working as a doctor doing medical research. After a wonderful journey of discovery of myself and the Marist Missionary Sisters, I began my postulancy in Jamaica. However, it was not until I returned to Australia that I had any formal class on the Marist spirit. I had not learnt much about obedience either, and so, when Sister. Gail told me to read 'The Marist Ideal', I told her that I was not prepared to read anything until I could call 'Our Lady' by her name 'Mary' as the other sisters did. My experience of Marist Missionary Sisters in both Jamaica and Australia was that they had a familiarity with Mary which I had never previously encountered and it was for me the essence of the Marist spirit. Even at that stage, I understood that the Marist spirit is not taught but caught. |
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18 June 2022
 Many people after they have been in a couple for some time will privately admit that they are frustrated and disappointed with the person they have chosen to share their lives with. If pressed for details they will have no problem coming up with a list. Their partner they might complain is to loyal to their irritating family or does not share their views on the lay out of the living room. Or, never wants to go on camping holidays. Or, plays tennis every Wednesday evening no matter what. Or does not like Moroccan food. Or, does not share their enthusiasm for 19th century novels. Or, has a habit of adding the word “Actually†to ever second sentence when it's “actually†redundant. |
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18 June 2022
 Many of our sensations are like bells which may not have no solid hard wire back to our consciousness. They ring at a peculiar frequency that is not picked up by our minds when these have been attuned incorrectly. This may for example, happen around tiredness. Our body may have growth extremely weary over many years, but consciousness may not be simply interested because it has been calibrated only to an agenda which sets store by a fast paced pursuit of status and money. |
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11 June 2022
 I first met Miriam-Rose through her writing and artwork, back in the early 1990s, when Studies of Religion was first introduced as a new HSC course. For the first time ever, Religion, compulsory in all Catholic schools, could actually count towards the TER (as it was called in those days). We had a long line of students opting to do the one-unit course. And we, as teachers, needed to prepare ourselves to teach it. We were heavily in-serviced and I still have folders of copious notes handed out to us by CEO. |
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22 April 2022
 Afghanistan is facing the biggest humanitarian crisis in the world, with the country seeing a sharp deterioration in the situation since the Taliban seized power in August.International funds which propped up the country’s fragile economy have been stopped as the world debates how to deal with the Taliban regime.The United Nations has issued a stark warning – that millions will die if urgent aid does not reach the country soon. In this video, the BBC’s Yogita Limaye travels to Herat, in the west of the country, and witnesses first-hand the dire situation on the ground. |
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20 April 2022
 Recently, I helped lead a retreat with year 12 students. In the small group which I ran, two students openly talked about their use of rocks and crystals for healing. They spoke about how these different types of rocks, such as jade, had healing properties. Immediately I thought “this is wrong†and “isn’t the Christian teaching that Jesus is the Son of God more correct and ultimately more powerful?†But….I realised in that moment I could create a slanging match or debate about who is right and who is wrong. “Of cause, I am right†I thought… But are these questions at the level of my own ego. Where my ego has an ambition always to be right and always be in control. |
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19 April 2022
 About 6 weeks ago my seven year old son had COVID. I woke at 2 am in the morning to the words “I cannot breatheâ€, “I cannot breatheâ€, I cannot breatheâ€. Racing to my son’s bed I smacked his back to help clear the flem which was preventing him breathing. The flem cleared and he began to throw up. He was sweating. |
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15 April 2022
 To give away our death. This startles most people who never use this expression. There are three major faces of your life. This is also human but Christian. The first struggle of life is to get your life together. Puberty chases you our of your house. This will take 20 or 30 years. You find home again. The next 40 or 50 years of your life which are generative years. You build. you have kids. Career. Then you might have 20 or 25 years after that. The question is not what can I still do? Rather, what can i do so that when I die my death is a blessing? |
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13 April 2022
 When a baby is born it clings to its mother’s chest. Gaining an insight by touch and smell of the mother’s closeness. The heart beat it knows very well. The father hopefully to will hold their baby. Research shows that the father too greatly influences the development of the baby through their connection. In this beginning moment in time the mother and the father may seem like God to the baby. Providing everything. |
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09 April 2022
 This documentary tells the story of Cardinal Bernardin's coming to awareness of the sexual abuse scandal in the Catholic Church, his courageous action to address the issue, the false accusation leveled against him, his exoneration, and his reconciliation with Stephen Cook, his accuser. |
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| Love | Marist Laity Australia |
09 April 2022
 Katie Hood reveals the five signs you might be in an unhealthy relationship -- with a romantic partner, a friend, a family member -- and shares the things you can do every day to love with respect, kindness and joy. 'While love is an instinct and an emotion, the ability to love better is a skill we can all build and improve on over time,' she says. |
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29 March 2022
 To be an Aboriginal means that whenever I am feeling alone I know that my ancestors with me. This is hard to explain. Ever Aboriginal person understands this. It means being first nation. Being aboriginal means I like to tell stories... |
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27 March 2022
 When a person chooses to ignore a religious view such as a Catholic view on sexual ethics, are they operating out of a lack of basic needs rather than seeing the higher needs? Debate and explain. |
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20 March 2022
 On March 13 the people of Holy Name of Mary parish, Hunters Hill and Woolwich, gathered for a picnic day to farewell retiring parish priest, Father Kevin Bates and welcome their new parish priest father Brian Wilson. |
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16 March 2022
 Conscience is that part of us which helps us make decisions. But what helps shapes our conscience? What forms our conscience? As we explore the nature of conscience we become more aware of factors which helps us to make better decisions. |
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13 March 2022
 Kids have a bad wrap today. Very rarely do you see kids portrayed well in films. You see this in Harry Potter they are portrayed positively. Kids have a sense of human from a young age. They are really playful. Kids can have the kind of relationship you set out to have. Sometimes it is more enjoyable to do things with little kids than you can with adults. The older you get what you see of the world is your memory. Artists help us break through this. The thing which is cool about having a little kid is that the kid revitalises the world. Kids bring things to life. |
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11 March 2022
 Natural Law is a broad and often misapplied term tossed around various schools of philosophy, science, history, theology, and law. Indeed, Immanuel Kant reminded us, 'What is law?' may be said to be about as embarrassing to the jurist as the well-know question ‘What is Truth?’ is to the logician. |
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13 February 2022
 Love, Interpreted explores the different aspects of love, sex, and relationships within a college setting. It dives into important social issues such as sexual assault on campus, how diversity affects these aspects on campus, and the LGBTQ+ presence and history on campus.The Marist Circle interviewed over 25 people and couples for this initiative, and were met with outstanding support and enthusiasm, garnering incredible insights into student's personal experiences. |
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13 January 2022
 It is not about winning. It is not about losing. It's about showing up and being seen. |
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28 December 2021
 It is well understood by good parents that life should only ever get so exciting for a baby: after friends have come around and brought presents and made animated faces, after there has been some cake and some cuddles, after there have been a lot of bright lights and perhaps some songs too, enough is enough. The baby will start to look stern and then burst into tears and the wise parent knows that nothing is particularly wrong (though the baby may by now be wailing): it is just time for a nap. The brain needs to process, digest and divide up the welter of experiences that have been ingested, and so the curtains are drawn, baby is laid down next to the soft toys and soon it is asleep and calm descends. Everyone knows that life is going to be a lot more manageable again in an hour. |
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25 December 2021
 The Christmas liturgy of Holy Name of Mary parish, Hunters Hill/Woolwich, began with its now-traditional outdoor Vigil Eucharist in the grounds of Villa Maria monastery. |
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18 December 2021
 What is it like to be a refugee? In this animated film two polar bears are driven into exile due to global warming. They will encounter brown bears along their journey, with whom they will try to cohabitate. Please watch this 8 minute film. |
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07 December 2021
 The account of creation in the first chapter of Genesis is a biblical reflection on the nature of the human person as one who shares a likeness to God and reflects the image of God. Each human being is unique and is invited to share in the company of God (DV2). |
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06 December 2021
 What does it mean to human? What does it mean to be human? What is human Sexuality? |
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02 November 2021
 Our Western culture has a different way - the perfection game. Where we want to climb the ladder of success all the time. We celebrate our successes and ignore our failures. We have turned religion into this? What are you doing right? What are you doing wrong? Is life all about image? Is life all about achieving an honour point system? How many points have you scored? |
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31 October 2021
 Francis of Assisi was born in 1181 or 1182 AD to one of the richest families in the town of Assisi Italy. As a young adult he was a bit of a party animal hosting parties for friends and wanting to be the centre of attention. But around the age of 20 he wanted to be a noble Knight, so he rode off to war against a neighbouring town of Perugia. But, was soon captured and jailed for 1 year. This dark moment had a profound effect on his life. A ransom was paid by his father and Francis was returned to Assisi. |
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26 October 2021
 Globally, people who are LGBTQIA+ are at increased risk of depression, suicide, and verbal, physical and sexual harassment and abuse. James recognised a lack of Church advocacy on these issues following the 2016 Orlando nightclub shooting in the USA, noticing that few Catholic Bishops publicly spoke out about the massacre. |
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21 October 2021
 This program follows a group of primary school students as they learn to recognise and address issues of racism, prejudice and stereotyping. |
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20 October 2021
 Tasmanian Aboriginal of the year, Rulla Kelly-Mansell is a proud Tulampanga Pakana man, State League footballer and the director of Make Runs Maxi, a charity that promotes positive mental health. |
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09 October 2021
 In 2020 there are estimates that people world-wide spent $152 billion on computer games. Most of these computer games promote violence. Some of these top games include Hitman 3, Resident Evil Village and Deathloop 2021. These games simulate killing where users glorify murder. |
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09 October 2021
 18-year-old Shania Armstrong is an incredible young Pertame Traditional Owner and an apprentice at the Pertame Language School. |
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29 September 2021
 Three years ago Border Force officers removed Nades Murugappen, Priya Nadaraja and their two young daughters from their adopted Queensland town of Biloela. |
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29 September 2021
 ‘Shine Your Light’ – Song by refugees featuring Ricky Kej, Aditya Narayan, Neeti Mohan and Salim Merchant |
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29 September 2021
 A beautiful short film about the power of one persons ability of presence and care. Libby is a 6 year old girl whose parents pay little attention to her. One day Joanne enters her life and changes everything by teaching Libby how to communicate using sign language. This is a 20 minute short film. Please watch this powerful film. |
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25 September 2021
 Can we accept our imperfections? What philosophies can we take to recognise the nature of our humanity both fragile and sometimes not perfect. This will allow ourselves to be ourselves and less defensive. With a philosophy of acceptance. Our pains fit into a broader picture. |
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18 September 2021
 Foreign Correspondent. One Spanish yacht. A quarter of a million square kilometres of sea. Boatloads of desperate men, women & children fleeing for their lives. Can a Barcelona crew help the thousands on this risky journey and steer them to safety? |
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13 September 2021
 Afghanistan’s Panjshir valley is in crisis. Families are trapped inside the narrow valley without enough food or medical supplies, and cut off from the outside world as the conflict in the region continues. As we continue to do what we can on the ground we are making an appeal for international intervention from global NGO’s to assist us reach more people in need of our help. We can’t do this alone. We need your help. |
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05 September 2021
 Recently Father Daniel Swartz was serving in Afghanistan. His own military group lost 13 people in a bombing in Kabul. Here is his story and testimony. |
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24 August 2021
 Completely disillusioned with a society that rejected him, Gregory P. Smith walked into a rainforest near Byron Bay and became a hermit for 10 years. He exited the forest, on the brink of death and still haunted by personal demons, to eventually gain a Ph.D. |
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18 August 2021
 Conversations and opinions about whether Australia should take refugees. |
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18 August 2021
 Bashir Yousufi is an orphan who fled Afghanistan leaving behind three younger brothers. He's now a high school student in Sydney's west with a passion for the country that gave him refug |
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14 August 2021
 Beautiful Iranian short film 1 minute Award winning winner of film festival. The powerful short movie depicts an older married couple reciting the Poem of Hafez to one another in the car, when they stop at a red light and notice a couple fighting loudly with their young daughter in the back seat. The older couple make a gesture that says a lot about their own marriage, and about how married love can help reconcile and restore others around us. |
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12 August 2021
 Set in Afghanistan. Follow the story of a 12 year old girl who has to dress up as a boy to receive work under the Taliban prior to 2003. This movie explores the culture and harsh realities for women in Afghanistan. |
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11 August 2021
 Follow the story of many people living in Afghanistan. Both from the Talibans community and the democratic Afghanistan. |
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03 August 2021
 By Peter Julian Eymard. Jesus is a model of poverty. “Blessed are the poor in spirit†(Matthew 5:3). The spirit and this virtue are a life of Jesus. Virtue and a perpetual poverty. The eternal word adopted it in his becoming man. He took what was most humiliating about poverty. The bode of beasts and what was most difficult about it. The stable. The major. The straw. The cold. The night. He was born far from the homes of men who offered him no assistance in his need. To be poorer still, the word made flesh will be born during a journey and refused hospitality on account of the poverty of his parents. |
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01 August 2021
 My children have been on school holidays. Always, entertaining kids can be quite difficult. Take yesterday. My wife had to work leaving me, dad, to look after the kids. We had planned to go to the skate park. |
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01 August 2021
 There are small clues if you know what you're looking for. An Indonesian tree where it shouldn't be, a fragment of foreign pottery on a scenic northern beach. They are markers of an annual Asian occupation of the northernmost tip of Western Australia that remains a mystery. 'This contact was happening prior to colonisation of this part of the northern coast, so it's an Asian industry working with Aboriginal traditional owners. |
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01 August 2021
 Given how important to be properly loved by one’s parents in order to have an emotional sane grown up life. One may wonder with some urgency why in cases which range from the regrettable to the truly tragic. The process can go so wrong. Why do some parents who might be in some areas descent and thoughtful characters, fail so badly to love the people they have brought into the world? |
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01 August 2021
 It’s perfectly normal to feel weak, lost, and unable to cope. Here is a collection of thoughts to remind us of our inner reserves of resilience. |
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24 July 2021
 Catholic Religious Australia (CRA) has written to the Government highlighting where its refugee and asylum seeker policies do not uphold Australia’s international human rights obligations, contrary to the Government’s insistence otherwise. The United Nations Human Rights Council has reached the same conclusions in its recent Universal Periodic Review (UPR) |
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14 July 2021
 For refugees, getting a full-time job and finding a place to live is incredibly difficult. That was certainly the case for Moj, a young man from Afghanistan whose entire family was killed in the war. Suffering from PTSD, he was unable to find work until an ABC documentary shared his story with the world. This report produced by Laura Kewley. |
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12 July 2021
 I've always found Indigenous languages important, particularly ours, given that our old people weren't allowed to speak it. Having this opportunity was a great privilege and to be taught by my aunties is very special. |
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11 July 2021
 My name is Zar Zar and I am 17 years old. I live in Ranong with my father, mother, and cousins. My parents are Mon ethnicity and also migrant workers. I am currently studying at Marist Asia Foundation (MAF) in Ranong, Thailand. |
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08 July 2021
 Cardinal John Ribat is the first Cardinal from Papua New Guinea. He shares to Mark Riedemann his first impressions after he was notify of election. He comments on the heroic work of missionaries in these lands, and yet this is still a land for first evangelization. The local Church is trying to develop their own vocations in this country were modernity and “stone age†costumes clash. |
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30 June 2021
 Often at school we learn about Maths and English. But what about the school of life? What is a swift summary of the building blocks of what makes life work better. Check this video out. This is inspiring. Reflect on this and share with those you love. |
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30 June 2021
 Strangely and awkwardly no human being can ever grow up sane. Unless it has been loved very deeply by somebody else for a number of years in its early life. But, we are still learning what good parenting might actually be like. How good were yours? Here are 8 rules that you might use to grade them. |
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27 June 2021
 Displaced by war, persecution and natural disaster, tens of millions of refugees have been forced to flee their homes in search of safety. Are we doing enough to protect the most vulnerable among them: children? |
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27 June 2021
 Marist Young Adults from Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, and New York talk with Bro. Michael Flanigan from Marist College in Poughkeepsie, NY. Their conversation is about Marcellin Champagnat's experience starting the Marist Brothers as a young adult and how that connects to our Marist Community today. The conversation took place at the Marist Brothers Center at Esopus, NY during the Fall 2019 Lavalla Weekend Experience. |
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24 June 2021
 Be inspired and moved hearing Bishop Vincent, Idrissa, Kane and Len share their first steps on their journey as migrants and refugees. |
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23 June 2021
 As we enter July here in Australia we enter one of the coldest months of the year. One of the saddest memories I have of volunteering for St Vincent De Paul Night Patrol is arriving at Central Station park on a -1 degree July Night many years ago. The wind was blowing, and it was freezing. At 11.30 pm we were to pack up and go home to a warm bed and shower. But one of the last visitors was a couple with a stroller. They had a young child pushing her along. Maybe 2 years old. After a hot milo and some fruit which we had left, they decided to spend the night in the park in freezing conditions. A family of 3. My heart when out to them. |
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18 June 2021
 Listen to the important stories of these members of our community. CatholicCare Wilcannia-Forbes as experienced a 20% rise in demand for our services - particularly for homelessness and emergency accomodation. Please help support the most vulnerable in our community. |
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18 June 2021
 Affordable housing and over crowding in our community is at an all time high. Especially in Aboriginal communities we have family members living on top of each other. Couch surfing. What that relates to is that our men turn to other issues that effect them. We need to say enough enough is enough. We need to call men to be warriors in our community. There needs to be changes in mens attitudes. Men need to speak up more and return back to their roots. |
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13 June 2021
 Break down the stigma of anxiety by watching this video as a family or community. Discuss. Lift the lid on the issue. |
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12 June 2021
 Victoria and South Aust have passed this bill with options within it. For providers to conscientiously object but Queensland look to Pass the bill with no Options for Providers to object…this is very concerning.For all Christian based health and aged care facilities. |
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01 June 2021
 Last week I attended a free seminar on “Building healthy relationships in our Teenagers†that my local council hosted. It focused heavily on the role that parents play in raising their children. The first speaker, clinical psychologist Colleen Hirst, said that teenagers need to develop skills to leave the nest or to leave the home. But in our modern culture the parent relationship has often changed to one of embarrassment. |
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10 May 2021
 A shelter for street boys located in the heart of Bankerohan, Davao City, Philippines. The center is administered by the Society of Mary-Marist Fathers & Brothers. |
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08 May 2021
 “My drawing is of a pregnant woman who is a symbol of the mystery of God.The child which she is bearing has an unknown gender and an unknown life ahead of them.This child also is a symbol of the mystery of God because it develops a mind, personality, and it makes decisions on its ownâ€- Artist - Marist Sisters College student 2014 |
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17 April 2021
 We are very worried about British girls. They have a 1 in 3 chance of being treated for anxiety and depression. 1 in 12 chance of an eating disorder. What we think it is that the entire country got too busy. You have the longest working hours in Europe. |
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13 April 2021
 Tributes to a beloved Australian Poet. My Easter has been coloured by the passing from this life to the next of someone who had a profound significance in the shaping of my Marist vocation. |
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10 April 2021
 Losing our way on a journey can be an unnerving experience. We may have an appointment to keep, a place to be, an arrangement to make and we get lost on the way. Panic and fear can easily take over and paralyse us, preventing us from thinking clearly or making the necessary decisions to re-set our desired direction. |
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06 April 2021
 “Man’s search for meaning†by Victor Frankl. In World War II Victor Frankl is in the concentration camp he tries to have a little notebook in which he writes his scientific research. The book is the proof of his existence. At one point he loses the book. He releases all traces that he has ever been may forever be gone. He does develop the notion of Logotherapy. |
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25 March 2021
 This is a myth parenting is about raising a happy child. I think that everybody thinks this. Why is this a myth? Because our children do not need to become happy. Life is not about happy happy anyway. Life is to be experienced in every nuance as it presents itself in the as is. Engagement with life to me is happiness and pure joy. Engage with it fully. |
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20 March 2021
 When we say we want #unconditional​ #love​, what we really mean is that we want an unconditional relationship. We want a #relationship​ with no consequences. We want a relationship where no matter what we do or don’t do, the other person will continue to value us and appreciate us to the degree that they will feel good towards us and never ever get into conflict suffering with us or want to leave us. Sit with this for a minute. |
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02 March 2021
 By Brene Brown. We share our shame story with the wrong person, they can become one more piece of flying debris in an already dangerous storm. We want solid connection in a situation like this. Something akin to a sturdy tree. |
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02 March 2021
 I donot want you shooting this ball around with you all night. |
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25 February 2021
 From sleeping in separate beds to their children to transporting them in prams, Western parents have some unusual ideas about how to raise them. |
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20 February 2021
 Please pray for Father Bob Barber and for the Marist Fathers, Brothers and communities who will miss Bob. The Society of Mary in Australia and worldwide mourns the passing of Fr Robert (Bob) Barber SM on Feb 13 at Lismore Base Hospital, NSW. In announcing his passing, Marist Provincial, Fr Anthony Corcoran, adds 'We have unexpectedly lost a dear confrere and friend, a good and kind Christian man, a generous Marist and faithful priest. May he rest in peace.' |
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05 February 2021
 Soul Surfer is an inspirational true story about Bethany Hamilton. At the start of a pro career in surfing, she is attacked by a shark. Most people would quick a career in surfing, but through faith, and resilience she rises to the challenge when her whole world seems to fall apart. |
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30 January 2021
 A group of seven carefree siblings and cousins, enjoying a moment of childhood independence as they walked to get an ice cream from the shops on a hot Australian summer evening. Then - without warning - the unthinkable. |
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26 January 2021
 Senior Australian of the Year 2021 - Miriam Rose. |
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17 January 2021
 A story about simplicity. There once was a shoemaker who was a very happy man. While he fixed shoes he sang at the top of his lungs, and delighted passers by laughed and waved to him. People often stopped at his shop simply to share his happiness. |
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09 January 2021
 On January 09, 1825, Fathers Jean-Claude Colin and Etienne Déclas strode from the presbytery of Cerdon high in the Bugey mountains of eastern France to climb to the village of La Balme. This was to be the first renewal mission to be preached by the infant Society of Mary. |
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07 January 2021
 A Quote by T. S. Eliot.“Mankind cannot bear too much reality, and in this people have pinpointed one of the essentials of human naturethe need to transcend reality and the need to dreamâ€. |
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05 January 2021
 Strangers organise funeral for Arpad Kiss, 82, who died alone on the streets of DarwinThe 82-year-old man's funeral service was small and simple, attended by about a dozen people who were both strangers and the last people he encountered.Those who went said it was a strange but deeply moving experience: gathering to farewell someone they had never really met. |
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03 January 2021
 In the Apostolic Letter that appointed Fr Paul Martin SM as the tenth Bishop of Christchurch, Pope Francis referred to Paul’s background in education, his pastoral ministry, and, more latterly his management of the Society of Mary’s world-wide finance. These are indeed some of the skills and experience that Paul brings to his new position. However, those who were present at his grand ceremony of Ordination to the Episcopacy in Christchurch saw more than a glimpse of the real man who will fill this position. |
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02 January 2021
 A reflection on how Marists are called to follow Jesus and care for each other |
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01 January 2021
 This Christmas is certainly different from the many years of our celebrations. COVID 19 has undeniably changed the world from the moment of its out break. The world was not prepared to face this pandemic. But slowly people have faced it positively despite the challenges it brought to them. It is also undeniably true that this pandemic has taught us lessons; lessons that are already present but we have neglected before. COVID 19 would be part of our lives in the years to come, but it showed us and brought us closer to essential things that truly matter faith in God, family, friends, support, love, generosity. These essentials thrive along the way. |
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29 December 2020
 Belay Banaag is a centre for girls at risk in the south of the Philippines. Balay Banaag – “House of Hope†is a ‘safe place’ for girls at risk. This Marist Sisters Centre provides shelter, support, education and an opportunity to break the cycle of poverty for ‘at risk behaviours and abuse of girls’. These young girls come from families at risk and are very vulnerable to exploitation and abuse. Often these girls cannot return home because they are at risk. Balay Banaag offers these girls a future with dignity, hope and independence. |
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27 December 2020
 Research shows that greater friendships and love relationships lead to “Greater Healthâ€, “Greater Wealthâ€, “Greater Resilienceâ€, “Faster Recovery from illnessâ€, “Greater Longevity†and “More successful childrenâ€. |
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10 December 2020
 On 26 July 2013, I was with my classmates on my way home from my English language class. Suddenly, two bomb explosions occurred, one in the market and the other in the neighboring bazaar. I was just walking around the market (which was just 20 meters away from me) and going back to my village to the main town to catch a bus. The second blast almost hit me. Fortunately, I was behind a bus that saved me with just minor injuries, but I lost one of my most cherished classmates. |
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