The Marianists

It is fitting that on the first day of a new year, we celebrate our mother. Today we celebrate the Solemnity of Mary, the Mother of God. Let us pray that Mary will help us by her prayers during this new year.

Reflecting on the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph today, on their feast day, reminds us to think about all families in the world and pray for peace and love to reign.

On December 27, the Church celebrates the feast of St. John the Evangelist, the Patron of the Society of Mary. The Gospel of John mentions this beloved disciple of Jesus, who stood at the foot of the cross along with Mary, Mother of Jesus. Artwork by Bro. Charlie Wanda, SM.

Mary, we come to you as once did the shepherds and kings, to find Jesus, our King and Shepherd. We offer you our lives today. May we always find Jesus with you and treasure all the wondrous things which come to those who search for Jesus in faith. Amen

Prepare the way for the Lord. Have a blessed Fourth Sunday of Advent as we prepare for His coming into the world.

These Brothers celebrated jubilees in 2024: Bro. Daniel Klco, 50 years of profession; Fr. Robert Bouffier and Fr. James Fitz, 50 years of ordination and Fr. John Thompson, 25 years of ordination. Brothers, your bold and courageous faith is a profound witness.

Today we celebrate the head of the Catholic Church in the world. Happy Birthday, Pope Francis! A native of Buenos Aires, Argentina, he was born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in 1936. He has served as Pope since 2013. Have a wonderful birthday, Papa Francisco!

Rejoice at the coming of our Savior! On this third Sunday of Advent, relish in the joy that comes from faith. Dwell in the peace that comes from being in the true presence of Jesus. Lord, we wait for you in love.

Today we celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. In 1531 Mary appeared to Juan Diego near Mexico City. In 1999, Pope John Paul II decreed that Our Lady of Guadalupe to be the Patroness of the Americas.

In 2024, we celebrate these 60-year jubilarians: Bro. Roger Bau, Bro. James Contadino, Bro. Lawrence Corbin, Fr. Timothy Eden, Bro. Ronald Overman, Bro. John Hablan, Bro. Thomas Pieper, Fr. James Russell and Fr. Bert Buby.

Today is the memorial of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary...the patronal feast of the Marianist Sisters, the Daughters of Mary Immaculate and it was on this day in 1800 that the first men approached Blessed Chaminade to form the first Marianist Sodality.

John the Baptist urges us even today to consider how we can become small like the child in the manger. We cry for justice and wait in joyful anticipation for the arrival of the model of humility, Jesus Christ. On this second Sunday of advent, we pray for Peace.

Marianists are known for their humble service and desire to put others before themselves. Bro. Irwin is a reliable, friendly face who has served in maintenance for decades and is the first to lend a hand. Read Bro. Irwin's jubilee testimonial online at loom.ly/mK_bpXs

His kindness lives on. We lost Fr. Tim Dwyer as our earthly brother on Nov. 18 but heaven gained a beloved, sparkling soul. "Until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of His hand." Read more about Fr. Timothy Dwyer here. loom.ly/g-QMjVU

Hospitality shared around our Marianist tables across the US Province made for another wonderful Thanksgiving holiday. This photo, courtesy of Bro. Robert Dzubinski, captured Brothers celebrating our many blessings. What did you do for Thanksgiving? What are you thankful for?

On Thanksgiving, we remember our model of gratitude, Mary, who never ceased in praising the Lord. "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior..."

The Fall/Winter 2024 issue of ALIVE Magazine was just released and includes an instant recipe classic: Bro. Andrew Kosmowski's Black Orchard Cake. See the full recipe in ALIVE Magazine on our website at loom.ly/MeU6FfE and while you are there, subscribe for free.

The latest issue of ALIVE Magazine is now online! Meet the newest Marianist Brothers in the Fall/Winter 2024 issue on our website at loom.ly/TfpVwrY.

Mary is the ultimate model of "saying yes" to God. Today we celebrate the Feast of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary based on an ancient tradition that says Mary was taken to the temple in Jerusalem when she was 3-years-old and dedicated to God. Hail Mary, full of grace

Our Lady of Providence is the patron saint of Puerto Rico. Pope Paul VI declared Our Lady Mother of Divine Providence the principal patroness of Puerto Rico in 1969. It is a feast day of great importance to our brothers.