Lest we forgetThis week's Blog comes from Fr Jim Carty SM, on the anniversary of the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945. Go to the Blog: click here. [Aug 15] |
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Everyone's responsibilityThis week's JPIC Blog focuses on safeguarding and comes Sr Catherine Jones SMSM, Safeguarding Officer for the Archdiocese of Wellington, NZ. Go to the Blog: click here. [Aug 08] |
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Carbon: The Unauthorised BiographyIn this week's JPIC Blog Kiwi Marist, Fr Peter Healy SM, reviews the recent, highly-recommended documentary, 'Carbon: The Unauthorised Biography'. Go to the Blg: click here. [Aug 01] |
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Ranong reportingThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Arnold Garferio SM, director of the Marist mission at Ranong, southern Thailand, summarising in a recent report the various ministries amongst Burmese migrant workers and their families. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jul 25] |
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The Three CirclesThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Setefano Mataele SM, with thoughts on orientation of Marist apostolic life through contemplation, community and mission. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jul 11] |
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Marist prison ministryThis week's JPIC Blog comes from the USA and Fr John Bolduc SM offering a Marist dimension to prison ministry. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jul 05] |
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Harmony CentreThis week’s JPIC Blog comes from Fr Hermes Larry Sabud SM in Ranong, Thailand, on the opening and blessing of the new Harmony Centre. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 27] |
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Mother of us allThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Luigi Savoldelli in Cameroon with the theme 'The earth is mother of us all'. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 23] |
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Sacred SleepIn this week's JPIC Blog Mary Ghisolfo, lay Marist serving with Notre Dame des Victoires, San Francisco, USA, answers the question:'Why does ministry among the poor awaken for us the critical role of a Marist vocation?'. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 13] |
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Conspiracy and DivisionThis week's JPIC Blog is a reflection by Fr Gerald Arbuckle SM on Conspiracy and Division. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 06] |
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Laudato Si weekTo mark Laudato Si week and the 7th anniversary of the encyclical, this week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Arnold Garferio SM, and the Marist Mission at Ranong, Thailand. Go to the Blog: click here. [May 24] |
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Burma CampaignMarists from Australia and Thailand participated In the webinar hosted by Young People for Development Australia, on May 17 in which UK-based Burma Campaign activist and authoress, Zoya Phan, (pictured below) presented a sobering update on the situation of violence and injustice in her native Myanmar. Other input came from Australian authority, Chris Sidoti, a member of the U.N. Special Advisory Council for Myanmar, and Karen leader, Kwi Kwith, founder and coordinator of the Young People for Development (YPD) network in Thailand and Myanmar (pictured below). For the video record click here. For websites, click: Burma Campaign | YPD Australia. . [May 25] |
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Laudato Si thesisThis week's JPIC Blog is a summary of the licentiate thesis of Fijian Marist, Fr Samuela Tukidia, which explores some key issues of the crises in which we now find ourselves. Go to the Blog: click here. [May 18] |
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Inter-Faith encounterThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Sr Catherine Jones SMSM from NZ, shared something of her life and work, as presented recently to the Marist Commission for Inter-religious Dialogue. Go to the Blog: click here. [May 11} |
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Conflict in Karen StateThe Australian Cardijn Institute and Young People for Development (YPD) Australia are partnering to present a webinar, 'Conflict in Karen State'. With the world’s attention focused on the tragic events in Ukraine, little media attention has been paid to the situation of the Karen ethnic community in Myanmar, particularly since the February 2021 military coup. All are welcome to participate in the webinar on Tue, May 17 at 7.00 pm AEST. Speakers will be Zoya Phan, Chris Sidoti and Kwi Kwith. For details of the webinar and its speakers, click here. [May 08] |
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Walking for WilaiThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Ron Nissen SM who accompanied a recent Australian camino raising funds to offer hope for a stateless child. Go to the Blog: click here. [May 03] |
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Giriteka - regaining dignityThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Sr Christiana Nshimiyimana SMSM, a Rawandan Marist Missionary Sister, reporting on the Giriteka project in Ngozi, Burundi: Go to the Blog: click here. [Apr 25] |
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New Life starts in the DarkThis week's JPIC Blog is an Easter reflection from Fr Peter Healy SM, 'New Life starts in the Dark'. Go to the Blog: click here. [Apr 19] |
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Fr Paulin and Inter-Religious DialogueThe JPIC Blog of Apr 04 features Fr Paulin Kubuya and his work as undersecretary for the Vatican Dicastery of Interreligious Dialogue. Go to the Blog: click here. [Apr 11] |
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Consecration of Russia and UkraineThis week’s JPIC Blog is the prayer (in English and French) of Pope Francis on the Solemnity of the Annunciation for the consecration of Ukraine, Russia, and the World to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 28] |
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Ever old, ever newThis week's JPIC Blog is the last in a series on Marist Contemplative Living, drawn from the teaching of Ven Jean-Claude Colin on prayer. Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 15] |
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Hoping against hopeThis week's JPIC Blog focusses on the global crisis of plastic pollution and the commitment of nations to engage in 'biggest multilateral environmental deal'" since the 2015 Paris climate agreement. Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 07] |
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Pacific's rising seasThis week’s JPIC Blog comes from Fr François Grossin SM, New Caledonia, on the implications of rising sea levels and maritime boundaries in the Pacific. Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 01] |
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No to human traffickingThis week’s JPIC Blog, from Fr Kevin Head SM, former editor of NZ's Marist Messenger, focusses on the tragic reality of human trafficking, The MM article has been translated into French by Fr Jean-Bernard Joly SM. Go to the Blog: click here. [Feb 26] |
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Update on the BorderThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Tony O'Connor SM, reporting on life on the US/Mexican border. Sleepy? Weary? But things are still happening. Go to the Blog: click here. [Feb 14] |
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Laudato Si seminar for global MaristsSee February News: click here. |
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Back to the familyIn this week's JPIC Blog Fr Roger Kasiama SM reports on the Nazareth Centre's program of reintegration among families and streets kids in Dakar, Senegal. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jan 31] |
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Our Ladys Underground DamThis week's JPIC Blog features an innovative approach to greening the environment by the Marist Fathers of the parish of Our Lady, Mother of God and Humanity, Palmas de Monte Alto, Bahia, Brazil. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jan 24] |
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Marist Contemplative LivingThis week's JPIC Blog continues the series of insights from Ven Jean-Claude Colin on aspects of Marist contemplative life. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jan 18} |
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In love with their landIn this week's JPIC Blog Fr Luigo Savoldelli's Laudato Si-inspired rural development project in Cameroon is praised by the Italian publication, Cuore Amico: 'Father Savoldelli's agricultural project is to make young people fall in love with their land instead of risking their lives on journeys of false hope.' Go to the Blog: click here. [Jan 10] |
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Signs of HopeThis week's JPIC Blog from Rome looks to five signs of hope for the New Year. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jan 05] |
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Christmas in contextThis week's JPIC Blog is a simple reflection by Fr Ben McKenna, 'Christmas in context'. Go to the Blog: click here. [Dec 28] |
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The Bugey OutbackThis week's JPIC Blog features the Bugey-like missionary work of two Marist Sisters in the remote outback of Queensland, Australia. Go to the Blog: click here. [Dec 20] |
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Marist Contemplative LivingThis week's JPIC Blog continues the series on Marist Contemplative Living with further advice from Jean-Claude Colin on prayer. Go to the Blog: click here. [Dec 13] |
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Transformative actionThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Kiwi Marist and member of the Society of Mary's International Ecology Commission, Fr Peter Healy, suggesting practical means of responding to the call to care for our common home. Go to the Blog: click here. [Dec 06] |
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Dismantling racismThis week’s JPIC blog comes from Our Lady of the Assumption Marist parish, Atlanta, USA, about their journey 'to dismantle the communal sin of racism in our church, our school, our parish, and our community'. Go to the Blog: click here. [Nov 29] |
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An Edible Forest |
| This week's JPIC Blog comes from Mexico City and the Marist-founded Franco-Ingles Colegio where staff and students have pioneered an exciting ecological initiative. Go to the Blog: click here. [Nov 22] |
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The Founder speaks - about prayerThis week's JPIC Blog continues the series on Marist Contemplative Prayer, with the words of Marist Founder, Jean-Claude Colin, on prayer. Go to the Blog: click here. [Nov 15] |
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New Hope for CreationFr Kevin Bates reflects on the Glasgow COP26 summit and the future of the planet. Click here. [Nov 13] |
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Aboriginal spiritualityThis week's JPIC Blog is drawn from Fr Paul Sullivan's contribution to a recent session of the Marist Commission for Inter-Religious Dialogue. For many years Fr Paul ministered amongst the indigenous people of NSW's Northern Rivers. Go to the Blog: click here. [Nov 08] |
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Think globally, act locallyMarist Laity Australia extends an invitation to participate in the latest of their online prayer sessions 'Think Globallly, act locally' on Sat, Nov 06, at 7.00 pm (EADT). To register go the MLA website or click here. [Nov 04] |
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Letting go or taking away?This week's JPIC Blog features refreshing common sense from Australian Marist, Fr Kevin Bates, on the issues surrounding 'voluntary assisted dying'. Go to the Blog: click here. [Nov 01] |
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The Earthshot PrizeOn the eve of COP 26, this week’s JPIC Blog, prompted by Fr Justin Taylor SM, offers signs of hope: the Earthshop Awards for those caring for our common home, Go to the Blog: click here. [Oct 25] |
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God needs dry woodContinuing the Marist Contemplative Life series, this week's JPIC Blog is from Fr Frank Bird SM. Go to the Blog: click here. [Oct 18] |
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Mary, support of the ChurchThis week JPIC Blog focusses on a fundamental Marist theme, Mary as the support of the Church. Go to the Blog: click here. [Oct 11] |
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Christian-Muslim marriageThis week's JPIC Blog reports on the experience of Fr Damien Diouf SM in preparing couples for Christian-Muslim marriage, as recorded in a recent Inter-Religious Dialogue meeting. Go to the Blog: click here. [Oct 04] |
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Can of wormsThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Tony O'Connor reporting on the plight of Haitian refugees at Del Rio on the US/Mexican border. Go to the Blog: click here. [Sep 27] |
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World Day of Migrants & RefugeesThe last Sunday of September (Sep 26 this year) is designated as World Day of Migrants & Refugees. For excerpts from the address of Pope Francis and comments from El Paso's Bishop Mark Speitz, click here and scroll. or click here to go direct to YouTube. [Sep 25] |
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Peace-by-pieceThis week's JPIC Blog is from Atlanta Marist teacher, Brendan Murphy, who speaks of programs of social and political love, themes of Pope Francis, which include these aspects in Marist Education. Go to the Blog: click here. [Sep 21] |
Buddhist retreatThis week's JPIC Blog features Fr Kevin Duffy's experience as a Marist making a Buddhist retreat. Go to the Blog: click here. [Sep 13] |
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Season of Creation
The Laudato Si' Movement office reports on Pope Francis' involvement with the beginning of 2021's Season of Creation: 'More than a hundred Laudato Si’ animators from Italy gave His Holiness a handmade 'Abraham’s tent' on Sep 01 World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, to mark the start of the ecumenical Season of Creation.
'Following Pope Francis’ general audience, the animators presented Pope Francis with the tent, a symbol of the 2021 Season of Creation, as communities around the world united around the season’s theme, 'A home for all? Renewing the Oikos of God.'
For Pope Francis' address, click here. [Sep 02]
Special Needs and ConsolationThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Mrs Chwefung Anastasia Sama writing from the Our Lady of Consolation Care Centre for Children with Special Needs, a Marist project in Bambili, Cameroon. Go to the Blog: click here [Aug 30] |
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Cry of the Earth, Cry of the PoorThe Australian Bishops' Conference has issued an important statement, 'Cry of the Poor, Cry of the Earth', for Social Justice Sunday, Aug 29, 2021.Click for : For Cry of the Earth, Cry of the Poor | Prayer Card | Video [Aug 28] |
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Code Red for Planet HomeThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Peter Healy SM (NZ / Aotearoa) on the recent report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), the United Nations body for assessing the science related to climate change. Go to the Blog: click here [Aug 23] |
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Marist Contemplative LivingThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr David Kennerley, reflecting on Mary in the midst of the Church, a key Marist theme and timely as we celebrate the Assumption of Mary. Go to the Blog: click here. [Aug 17]. |
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Pandemic and People of GodThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Gerald Arbuckle SM, giving a summary overview of his forthcoming book,'The Pandemic and the People of God'. Go to the Blog: click here. [Aug 09] |
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Name change for GCCMTomas Insua, executive director of the former Global Catholic Climate Movement, announces a change of name for the worldwide ecological organisation to Laudato Si' Movement. Tomas (pictured below with Pope Francis) comments: 'Together, with Laudato Si’ Animators, member organizations, Catholics across the globe and Church leaders, we rejoice in the blessings this movement has received during the past six years and are excited about what awaits us!' For Laudato Si' Movement's (lengthy) video annoucng the name change click here. [Aug 04] |
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Living Cry of HopeThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Hemi Ropata SM, Marist seminarian from Aoteaoro -NZ , It is relevant to Pope Francis' Laudato Si, and the UN World Day for Indigenous People, and our Marist Contribution. Go to the Blog: click here. [Aug 02] |
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Dialogue in JapanThis week's JPIC Blog is from Australian Marist, Fr Michael Jacques, reporting on inter-religious dialogue in Japan. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jul 26] |
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A Synodal ChurchThis week's JPIC Blog, 'A Synodal Church', is the work of Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, of Parramatta, NSW, where the Marists are in the process of establishing an international 'Omnes Gentes' community. Go to the Blog: click here [Jul 19] |
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Marist contemplative livingThis week’s JPIC Blog, on Marist contemplative living, comes from Fr Paul Walsh SM, Toulon, France, sharing the wisdom of living in the present moment. Go the Blog: click here. [Jul 12] |
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Ranong reportFrom Ranong, Thailand, Fr Frank Bird SM sends a six-monthly report on the Marist Asia Foundation, supporting the educational, health and other needs of Burmese migrant people. Fr Frank adds: 'We hope you may enjoy seeing some stories and smiles from the Thai Burma Border in Ranong. There have been ups and downs, the challenges continue with Covid and the Military Coup, but we keep going. We are joyful and humbly proud of the blessings that come from the Marist Centre and Team in the middle of the Migrant Community in Ranong. Thanks for being part of the compassion in action!' The Ranong mission has been assisted by Australia's Marist Mission Centre since it began in 2006. For the report click here [Jul 09] |
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Tutu: providing a futureThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Petero Matairatu SM, director of Rural Training Centre, Tutu, Taveuni, Fiji, drawn from their five-year strategic plan. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jul 05] |
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NAIDOC WeekJul 04-11 is NAIDOC Week with the 2021 theme of 'Heal Country!', encouraging First Australians to continue to seek greater protections for their lands, waters, sacred sites and cultural heritage from exploitation, desecration, and destruction. For more on this theme, click here. [Jul 04] |
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Share the JourneyThis week's JPIC Blog follows the recent UN World Refugee Day and comes from Marist School Atlanta, USA, sharing their contribution to the care of migrants and refugees. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 28] |
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He comforts us...This week's JPIC Blog comes from Sr Carlotta Calle SMSM, in Peru, on the work of her prison chaplaincy team. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 22] |
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Refugee week 2021Amongst activities planned for this year's Refugee week Sun, Jun 20 to Sat, Jun 26) is an initiative of Holy Name of Mary parish Social Justice group and the Jesuit Refugee Service. An information evening promoting awareness of refugees will be held on Jun 22 at the Hunters Hill parish hall in which guest speaker, Magdalene, from Sierra Leone will share her lived experience of seeking asylum. A sports journalist, Magdalene came to Australia seeking asylum in 2018 after facing danger and death threats because of her activism against female oppression in her home country of Sierra Leone. In Australia, Magdalene continues to use her journalism skills and passion to advocate for the rights of her community. The function will include light refreshments, an evening of information, Q&A and reflection. Click here for full details. For more on Refugee week click here and for the Refugee Council of Australia click here. [Jun 19] |
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Contemplation: renewing societyThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Rev Ross Flint, ordained Anglican and Marist Associate, who shares his experience of the need for contemplation as a basis for social action. Go to the Blog: click here [Jun 15] |
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Interreligious dialogue: a Marist's journeyThis week’s blog, from Fr Gerard Hall SM, Australian Marist, highlights a few impact moments of his journey of interreligious dialogue. Go to the Blog: click here [Jun 10] |
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Food insecurity awarenessThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Notre Dame Preparatory and Marist Academy in Pontiac Michigan, USA, whose students are engaged in advocacy and stewardship, with food insecurity as a practical example. Go to the Blog: click here [May 31[ |
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Connections - earth and poorThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Tony O’Connor SM on the Mexico/USA border. As the world is celebrating ‘Laudato Si’ week – the 6th Anniversary of Pope Francis’ Encyclical – Fr Tony links the Cry of the Poor with the Cry of the Earth. Go to the Blog: click here. [May 24] |
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Laudato Si week |
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In announcing a series of live sessions during Laudato Si week, executive director of the Global Catholic Climate Movement, Tomás Insua, reports: 'On Sunday, Pope Francis started the 10-day celebration with his Papal Angelus, a beautiful way to invite the Holy Spirit into the crowning event of the Laudato Si Special Anniversary Year. This week we’re diving into how we can create change for our sisters and brothers around the world ahead of two vital meetings: the UN Biodiversity Conference (COP15) and the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).' For 'everything you need to know about Laudato Si week': click here. [May 17] |
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Contemplative journeyIn this week's JPIC Blog Australian Marist, Fr Michael Whelan SM, describes his journey of contemplation. Go to the Blog: click here. [May 17] |
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Myanmar coup - a Marist view
This week's JPIC Blog comes from Ranong, Thailand, where Fr Frank Bird SM gives first-hand accounts of the impact of the Myanmar coup on Burmese migrants in the care of the Marist Mission. Go to the Blog: click here [May 10]
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Marian integral ecology
Marists and inter-religious dialogueThis week’s JPIC blog is the outline of a video conference presentation by Superior-General, Fr John Larsen, to the Marist Commission for Inter-Religious Dialogue. Go to the Blog: click here.. [Apr 26] |
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Remember and prayFor Fr Kevin Bates' Anzac reflection, click here. [Apr 23] |
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Marist contemplative livingThis week's JPIC Blog continues the theme of Marist Contemplative Living, this time authored by Fr Ted Keating SM, USA. Go to the blog: click here. [Apr 20] |
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Aussie camino for WilaiThe Wilai Foundation announces its Australian Camino, Walk for Wilai 2021, from Portland, Vic, to Penola, S.A. in September. In 2017 Fr Jim Carty SM (then 78 years of age) walked a rugged 740 km camino through the south-west of France to raise funds for the Foundation and its work on behalf of stateless children in S-E Asia. At 82, he plans to be part of the 200km-plus Australian camino. For details of the walk: click here [Apr 16] |
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Mary's Grove.This week's JPIC Blog reports on the transformation of the shrine of Our Lady Mother of God and of Humanity at Monte Alto, Brazil. Go to the Blog: click here. [Apr 12] |
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Deep ResurrectionThis week’s JPIC Blog is a short reflection on the Paschal Mystery from where we are in space and time. Go to the Blog: click here. [Apr 05] |
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Laudato Si & Marists in AfricaThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Luigi Savoldelli SM and his Laudato Si project with the people of Nkoloman, Cameroon. The Paschal Mystery of this Holy Week is coming to life in many real ways here. Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 29] |
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What is truth?For Fr Kevin Bates' reflection on the iconic question of Pilate, click here. [Mar 27] |
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Marists and MyanmarThis week's JPIC Blog is about Fr Peter Nawt Lawt as he returns to his people in Myanmar, and about the first Marist mission to that place. Go to the Blog: click here. Fr Peter is pictured below, seated, with members of the Villa Santa Maria community, Rome, including Superior-General, Fr John Larsen SM, second from right, who led the Marist mission in Myanmar. [Mar 22] |
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Contemplative Marist livingThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Fritz Arnold, SM, and the contemplative Marist community of Furstenzell, Germany. Go to the Blog: click here [Mar 15] Below: Fr Fritz Arnold SM | Bernini's 'The Ectasy of St Teresa of Avila' |
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You took care...This week's JPIC Blog from the Solidarity Commission of the European Province. The focus is on caring for the Sick and the Elderly – who themselves are participating in the redeeming and transfiguring work of Christ: Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 08] |
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Laudato Si action planThis week's JPIC Blog comes from New Zealand and Fr Peter Healy SM, reflecting on the recent roll-out of Laudato Si's 7-year plan. Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 02] |
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Seven-year action platformThis week's JPIC Blog follows the recent webinar (see below) focussing on the seven-year action platform for developing Laudato Si strategies worldwide. Go to the Blog: click here. [Feb 23] |
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Marist Laudato Si webinarMarists from all over the world and representing all branches of the Marist Family connected on Feb 11 with Fr Joshtrom Kureethadam for a webinar on Laudato Si's 7-year planning. Fr Joshtorm is Coordinator of the Sector of “Ecology and Creation” at the Vatican Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. The webinar, facilitated by Marist Assistant-General, Fr Ben McKenna SM, provided its almost a hundred participants with opportunities for questions and comments to Fr Joshtrom. For a glimpse of most of the presentation's slides: click here. [Feb 17] |
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Laudato Si LentThe Global Catholic Climate Movement invites all to participate in a Laudato Si Lent. For the Lenten calendar and a host of Lenten ideas go to the website: click here. [Feb 17] |
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Contemplative Marist LivingIn this week's JPIC Blog Fr Justin Taylor SM writes of contemplation as the energy source, 'the mystical heart' of Marist mission.. Go to the Blog: click here. [Feb 15] |
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Myanmar's Cardinal speaks outArchbishop of Yangon and leader amongst Asian bishops, Cardinal Charles Maung Bo, has written powerfully about the recent events in Myanmar. In his letter he addresses the people of Myanmar, the military coup leaders, the democratically elected leaders and the international community. For Cardinal Bo's letter, click here. [Feb 08] |
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Ride on, Br Charlie ! |
| This week's JPIC Blog features Brisbane-born Br Charles Randle SM and his contribution to the work of the Marist Mission Centre through 'Cycling fior Children'. Go to the Blog: click here. [Feb 08] |
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| Above: Br Charlie on his Colnago racer | Celebrating his 80th birthday in Nov 2020. | With MMC riders in 2006. Below: Relaxing during a week-long ride in rural NSW. | Co-rider in Rome, Marist seminarian, Cameron Mota SM. |
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Border recyclingThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Tony O'Connor SM at Brownsville on the USA-Mexican border, recycling for a better life. Go to the Blog: click here [Feb 02] |
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One and freeFor Fr Kevin Bates' reflection following Australia Day 2021, click here. [Jan 29] |
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Marists, refugees and migrantsThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Br Ivan Vodopicec SM and the SM Solidarity Committee, Europe: as the first of four leaflets to reflect on our lives and mission. The theme is Refugees and Migrants, and draws on Marist experience and sources. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jan 20] |
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Ranong reportFrom Ranong, southern Thailand, Fr Frank Bird SM sends the annual report of the Marist Asia Foundation. Its thirty pages offer a comprehensive summary of a challenging year spent among Burmese migrant workers and their families during the pandemic. Fr Frank gratefully notes the presence of Australian Marist, Fr Kevin Redmond, (pictured below surrounded by Ranong students and with Fr Frank) whose extended stay will shortly end as he returns to Australia for the start of the new mission venture at Marayong, NSW. For the MAF report: click here. [Jan 15)
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Marists and SustainabilitySuperior-General, Fr John Larsen's first reflection for 2021 focuses on practical issues of sustainability. Speaking of 'ecological conversion' it is accompanied by a 'Sustainability Covenant' developed by the Marist Ecological Commission and adopted by the General Council of the Society of Mary as a model for Marist communities worldwide. Click for: Superior-General's reflection | Sustainability Covenant For other languages (Spanish, Italian and French), go to the JPIC Blog: click here. For earlier reflections by Fr John Larsen, go to the Superior-General's page: click here. [Jan 09]
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New Year contemplationFrom Rome Fr Ben McKenna introduces this week's JPIC Blog: 'Our blog this week is an invitation to begin our Journey into 2021 with a contemplative heart, one with God, to play our part in healing our wounded world.' Go to the Blog: click here. [Jan 05] |
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Dadirri - the deep springThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Australian indigenous woman, Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr-Baumann, who offers a listening experience for Christmas. Go to the Blog: click here. [Dec 22] |
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World, Church and MaristsThis week's JPIC Blog follows a recent gathering in Rome of a Laudato Si circle. Fr Ben McKenna was there. Go to the Blog: click here. [Dec 14] |
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Ranong graduationsThis week's JPIC Blog features the recent ACU graduation of immigrant youth at the Marist mission, Ranong, Thailand. Go to the Blog: click here. [Dec 07] |
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Māori dialogueIn this week's JPIC Blog Fr Phil Cody SM reflects on years of dialogue with the Māori people of Aotearea/New Zealand. Go to the Blog: click here [Nov 30] |
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Border updateThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Brownsville, Texas, where Fr Tony O'Connor SM gives an update, 'Which soul of the nation?', on life, ministry and COVID-19 on the Mexican border. Go to the Blog: click here. [Nov 23] |
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Oceania legacyFrom Rome, Assistant-General, Fr Ben NcKenna SM, sends the weekly JPIC Blog with this comment: 'The blog is going up on 15th November: the anniversary of Françoise Perreton, a pioneer of the Missionary Sisters of the Society of Mary (SMSM) leaving France for Oceania in 1845. Thirty years later, on 15th November 1875, Jean-Claude Colin, Marist Founder, went to his eternal reward. Their legacy lives on...' Go to the Blog: click here [Nov 16] |
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Laudato Si in actionThis week's JPIC Blog is from Fr Jim Duffy SM who reports on the initiatives of Our Lady of the Assumption parish, Atlanta, USA. Go to the Blog: click here. [Nov 09] |
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Fr Olivier's dialogue with IslamThis week's JPIC Blog comes again from Toulon, France, where Fr Paddy O'Hare reports on the work of Fr Olivier Laurent with Christian-Islamic dialogue. Go the Blog: click here. [Nov 03] |
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Ecological education at ToulonThis week’s JPIC Blog comes from Fr Paul Walsh SM, Toulon, France, about the crucial role of education of young people in ecological awareness and practices. Go to the Blog: click here. [Oct 27] |
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Marist ecology at TutuFr Petero Matairatu SM is the director of the Marist Training Centre, Tutu, Taveuni, Fiji, In this week's JPIC Blog he describes the ecologically-sensitive developments amongst the young farfmers and failies of Tutu. Go the the Blog: click here. [Oct 19] |
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Caring for the CooksThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Bishop Paul Donogbue SM, Rarotonga, Cook Is, about the people's response to Laudato Si. Go to the Blog: click here. [Oct 12] |
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Sin is in the airFr Kevin Bates' weekly reflection for Holy Name of Mary parish is a perceptive look at modern world trends, corporate and human behaviour. Click here. [Oct 10] |
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Peace through inter-religious encounterFrom Rome Fr Kevin Medilo SM shares his experience of inter-religious dialogue in this week's JPIC Blog. Go to the Blog: click here. [Oct 06] |
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Street boys' pandemic studies
From Davao, southern Philippines, Fr Lionel ('Long') Mechavez SM reports in this week's JPIC Blog on Balay Pasilungan's street kids studying through the pandemic. Go to the Blog: click here. [Sep 29]
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A second creationThis week's JPIC Blog is educationalist Fr 'Aisake Vaisima's reflection on Marist education as a 'second creation', according to the mind of Marist Founder, Jean-Claude Colin. Go to the Blog: click here [Sep 21] |
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Pandemic in BoliviaThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr John Hopkison's 75th birthday letter reflecting on living through the pandemic in Bolivia. Go to the Blog: click here. [Sep 15] |
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Marist education , 'a new creation'This week's JPIC Blog features the insights of Fr Cyr Avaligbe SM, former manager of the Institution Mariste Jean-Claude Colin de Ndiakhirate, Dakar, Senegal. Go to the Blog: click here. [Sep 07] |
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Respect for the planet's resourcesIn a short but moving video, Pope Francis forcefully speaks out against acts of “looting” against God’s creation and calls on all people to take action to protect God’s gifts “today, not tomorrow, today.” For the video, click here [Sep 04] |
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Season of CreationIn the spirit of Pope Francis' Laudato Si and from the Global Catholic Climate Movement, program manager for Asia Pacific, Cheryl Dugan, encourages worldwide participation in the five-week Season of Creation commencing today. Download the handy guide: click here. [Sep 01] |
Hope facing no hopeThis week's JPIC Blog, from Fr Tony O'Connor SM, Brownsville, Texas, is the moving story of asylum seeker, Rodrigo. Go the the Blog: click here. [Aug 31] |
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Australia's dodosThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Jim Carty, commenting on Australia's increasing loss of biodiveristy.. Go to the Blog: click here. [Aug 24] |
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COVID initiatives in AfricaIn this week's JPIC Blog, from Yaoundé, Cameroon, and the Marist Mission District of Africa, Fr Albert Kabala reports on a range of creative initiatives during the pandemic. Go to the Blog: click here. [Aug 17] |
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Give it a goThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Browsville, Texas, and Fr Tony O'Connor SM, with the experience of the pandemic on the USA-Mexico border. Go to the Blog: click here. [Aug 12] |
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This Fragile GlobeFollowing the Beirut explosion and in the midst of the COVID pandemic, Fr Kevin Bates' reflects on the fragile state of our world. Click here [Aug 07] |
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From Hope CathedralThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Norway, where a friend of the Marists, Elisabeth Golding, reflects on Pope Francis' Laudato Si letter on World Environment Day. She speaks from Oslo's 'Cathedral of Hope', itself constructed from waste materials collected on Norway's shores. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jul 27] |
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Tutu's traditionThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Isaia Wairoga SM, director of the Marist Rural Training Centre, Tutu, Fiji, maintaining a long tradiion of empowering the young farmers and families of Taveuni . Go to the Blog: click here. [Jul 20] |
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Black lives matter: Australia-PacificThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Marist Associate, Rev Ross Flint, Tasmania. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jul 06] |
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Senegal's street kidsThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Dakar, Senegal, reporting on the ministry to street kids of Fr Roger Kasiama SM, director of the Marist Ministry of Family and Social Reintegration for Children in Street Situations. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 29] |
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Saturday sandwichesThis week's JPIC Blog is from Br Ivan Vodopivec SM, a member of the Marist community of Notre Dame de France, Leicester Square, London. He describes their outreach to provide simple meals for the homeless on Saturdays - and Fridays, too. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 23[ |
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Refugee WeekFor the range of events during Refugee Week during the Year of Welcome 2020, click here. |
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Home ecologyThis week's JPIC Blog features the continuing environmental work of Fr Donato Kivi SM, rector of Marist College, Suva, Fiji. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 16] |
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Rosemary's WayAt its recent meeting the Marist Family Committee for Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation moved to promote the award-nomnated documentary, 'Rosemary's Way', depicting the extraordinary assimilation ministry of Rosemary Kariuki amongst migrant and refugee women in Australia and their welcome by Australian communities. Former Marist Laity leader, Maria Baden, (pictured below, far right) features in some parts of the documentary which is currently part of the Sydney Film Festival. Go to the website: click here. View trailer: click here. [Jun 15]. |
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Prison and COVIDIn this week’s JPIC Blog Sr Carlotta Calle Remaicuna, SMSM, describes from Peru how the COVID-19 pandemic has added to the problems that prisoners face. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 08] |
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Reconciliation, AUS-USA, a common needIn the wake of violence in Minneapolis, USA, and during Reconciliation Week in Australia, Fr Jim Carty, in this week's JPIC Blog, reflectis on the common need for reconciliation in both Australia and USA. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jun 01] |
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Laudato Si and the 8-year planThis week's JPIC Blog from Rome links to resources for an 8 year plan inspired by Laudato Si. Fr Ben McKenna says: 'I would recommend a slow, reflective read, which will flow into practical plans: personal, communal, and institutional.' Go to the Blog: click here. [May 29] |
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Global prayer at noonAs a climax to the Laudato Si 5th anniversary week, Catholics across the globe will be united in spirit and bring solidarity to the world in a shared moment of prayer at noon local time on May 24. Participants may register here and click here to download the Common Prayer. [May 23] |
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A story I don't want to tellFrom Brownsville , USA, Fr Tony O'Connor SM sends this story... Mike Seifert has lived in Texas border communities since 1989. In 2017 he became Border Advocacy Strategist for the ACLU of Texas. Here is the story he did not want to tell. click here. [May 19] |
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Practical ideas for Laudato Si weekIn this week's JPIC Blog Sr Catherine Jones SMSM writes from Notre Dame de France, London, with practical ideas on how to observe Laudato Si week. Go to the Blog: click here. [May 18] |
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Laudato Si weekPope Francis invites us to mark the fifth anniversay of his monumental letter on the care for our planet, 'Laudato Si' with a week of special prayer and reflection, May 16-24. For the comprehensive program suggested by the Australian Jesuits, click here and here. For Pope Francis' video message, click here. [May 15] |
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Faith bigger than fearThis week's Monday JPICC Blog from Rome is from Fr Tony O'Connor SM on the USA-Mexican border. Facebook and food bank during COVID times. Go to the Blog: click here. [May 12] |
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Post-COVID, a new normal?In this week's JPIC Blog, Rev Ross Flint ponders what a new normal might be after the pandemic. Go to the Blog: click here. [May 05] |
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A hunger pandemicIn this week's JPIC Blog, Fr Jim Carty points to the pandemic of hunger paralleling the COVID-19 outbreak. Go to the Blog: click here. [Apr 28] |
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Earth Day's 50th anniversaryPope Francis has devoted his weekly audience on Apr 22 to marking the 50th anniversary of Earth Day. Go to the text: click here. [Apr 23] |
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Pope's pandemic commissionThis week’s JPIC Blog records Pope Francis' latest initiative to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic. Go to the Blog: click here [Apr 21] |
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Border TriduumThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Fr Tony O'Connor SM on the USA/Mexican border. Go to the Blog: click here. [Apr 14] |
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Street kids' responseThis week's JPIC Blog comes from Davao, Philippines: the response of Balay Pasilungan's youngsters. Go to the Blog: click here. [Apr 08] |
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Pope Francis prays for the worldThis week's JPIC Blog is the Holy Father's recent 'Urbi et Orbi' message. Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 30] |
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Jaime's rooftop gardenDuring Rome's pandemic lock-down, Mexican Marist seminarian, Jaime Perez Martinez SM, has used time to restore abandoned garden plants and reflect on their new lease of life. Indeed, Jaime, a student at Casa di Maria, the Marist International Theologate, points to how much life can flow from these restricted times. Good on you, Jaime! A fine use of lock-down time. For Jaime's reflection, 'Principles of Death, Principles of Life', click here. [Mar 28] |
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Corona and climateFrom New Zealand, in this week's Monday Blog, Fr Peter Healy SM shares about Maori culture and the connections between corona and climate. Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 23] |
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Pandemic - poems and prayersWith the spread of COVID-19, thoughtful reflections, poems and prayers, are emerging as well. Click below for:
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Lenten carbon fastCatholic Religious Australia's calendar for the Lenten carbon fast is available, click here. (Apologies to CRI for the late uploading.) [Mar 10] |
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Coronavirus - a faith responseIn this week's JPIC Blog from Rome, Fr Ben McKenna reflects on the current crisis through the eyes of faith. Go to the blog: click here. [Mar 09] |
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Down Under under attackThis week's JPIC Blog is Australian Marist, Fr Jim Carty's, sober comment on the ecology and climate of his homeland. Go to the Blog: click here. [Mar 02] |
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Br Paul's letter from ThailandThis week's JPIC Blog is a letter from Marist Brother Paul Murphy FMS working with undocumented migrant children in Thailand. Go to the Blog: click here. [Feb 26] |
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After the firesIn two of his regular weekend reflections, Fr Kevin Bates SM, officers thoughtful challenges in the aftermath of recent fires and floods. Click for: After the fires, unfinished business and Too much excess. [Feb 22] |
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Beloved AmazonThis week's JPIC Blog from Rome taps into Pope Francis' post-synodial exhortation, 'Querida Amazonia - Beloved Amazon'. Go the Blog: click here, For the full text of 'Beloved Amazon', click here. [Feb 18] |
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BP20 under way |
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The latest in the ongoing series of 'Bridge Programs' commenced in early February. Twelve young adult 'BP-ers' from various parts of Myanmar and Thailand have begun a twenty-week journey of D.I.Y. assignments geared to prepare them for entrée to higher education and employment. BP began in 2011 as a consequence of the Marist Mission Centre's involvement with Burmese refugee camp hostels and the establishment of Australia Catholic Universty's online diploma course.on the Thai-Myanmar border. The Bridge Program is led by a team of former-BP-ers who upload assignments to the BP website and coordinate many of the program's activities including regular Skype video sessions. [Feb 14] |
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Above: Participants in BP20 | Masthead of the Bridge Program website. Below: Skype video sessions are integral to the Bridge Program in developing English language skills. | BP's signature image of a refugee youngster crossing a camp bridge into the future. | The Coordinating Team of BP20. |
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WIHWIn this week's JPIC Blog, Fr Larry Sabud SM prepares for World Inter-Faith Harmony Week. Go to the Blog: click here. [Feb 11] |
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Caring for the green mountain'Villa Santa Maria', the General House of the Society of Mary, is located in the 'Monteverde' ('green mountain') district of Rome. The Marist community keeps an active ecological eye on the grounds and its groves of fruit trees, terraces and lawns. Assistant-General, Fr Ben Mc Kenna, (pictured below, watering can in hand), took photos of the recent tree-lopping at 'Monteverde' on the heights overlooking the city of Rome. See also 'The greening of Rome' (May 2019): click here [Feb 06] |
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Fr Luigi's wellIn this week's JPIC Blog, from Cameroon, Africa, Marist missionary, Fr Luigi Savoldelli SM, describes a life-giving initiative . Click here. [Feb 04] |
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Unusual kindnessIn this week's JPIC Blog from Rome, Fr Tony O'Connor shares moving stories of the experiences of his flock on the US-Mexican border. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jan 28] |
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Laudato Si and the Marist FamilyThis week's JPICC Blog from Rome features the Marist Family's planning for 2020's events surrounding Laudato Si. Go to the Blog: click here. [Jan 17] |
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