Faithful Presence, Enduring Impact – A Legacy Honored

For decades, generations of students, faculty, alums, and Marianists have known Fr. James Fitz as a devoted companion and champion of faith, service, and Marianist spirit. The University of Dayton (UD) commemorated that extraordinary legacy earlier this month by conferring upon him an honorary Doctor of Humane Letters degree during its commencement ceremonies.

The recognition celebrates far more than a title or accomplishments. It honors his vocation lived faithfully and generously since becoming a professed religious in the Society of Mary in 1965 — a life devoted to forming communities of faith, mentoring young people, and strengthening the Marianist Mission.

A 1968 graduate of UD, Fr. Fitz served the University for more than 36 years as head of campus ministry, a religious studies instructor and then as vice president for mission and rector — a role central to upholding UD’s Catholic and Marianist identity.

“I am humbled and honored to receive this degree,” Fr. Fitz shared. “It has been a privilege to serve the Church as a Marianist in many capacities, including at the University. These years have allowed me to fulfill my commitment as a Marianist — to contribute to the vision of the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is a vision of love, justice, and peace.”

Those who know Fr. Fitz understand that his greatest impact cannot be measured only in years of service, but in the countless lives he has helped shape. It’s a role he’s never taken for granted. “It has been a privilege to see and to contribute to the growth of young people — new servant leaders,” emphasized Fitz. Even now in semi-retirement, he continues to assist with liturgies and campus ministry, reflecting the Marianist belief that mission is not simply one moment in time, but rather a lifelong calling.

Chapel of the Immaculate Conception

University President Eric Spina praised that enduring witness, saying, “Fr. Jim has dedicated his life to forming people and communities of faith; demonstrating integrity, wisdom, and leadership. He has given his life completely for this Marianist vocation.” Fr. Jim’s influence can be felt in the very fabric of the University — in fact, it is in the very bricks of the beloved Chapel of the Immaculate Conception, as the renovation of the chapel was one of many things on his long list of accomplishments.

In honoring Fr. Fitz, the University also honors the enduring Marianist spirit he embodies so well — a spirit that calls each of us to serve with humility, lead with faith, and help others discover God’s presence in community. His example reminds us that the most meaningful legacies are built not through recognition but through daily acts of love and accompaniment.

That’s a Wrap!

As Fr. Jim Fitz was honored for a lifetime of Marianist service, thousands of graduates across our Marianist universities prepared to begin their own journeys of leadership and mission. At Chaminade University of Honolulu, students celebrated as one “ohana.” St. Mary’s University graduates filed into St. Louis Hall to the commencement stage, and University of Dayton graduates celebrated academic achievement with a dance.

Across all three universities, commencement was more than a milestone — it was a sending forth. These graduates now enter the world prepared to lead with compassion, live with purpose, and become the difference our world needs most.

Chaminade Univeristy of Honolulu
St. Mary's University
University of Dayton

In The News

Joyfully Committed to a Sacred Promise

Surrounded by the love and support of her family and the Marianist Family, Sr. Emily Sandoval, FMI, professed her perpetual vows at Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception Church in Dayton, OH, on May 23, 2026.

Marianist Sisters, Brothers, parishioners from the Bread of Life/Pan de Vida family of parishes, colleagues from the University of Dayton, and her immediate family gathered to witness this celebration of faith, vocation, and community.

The liturgy was filled with gratitude and hope as Fr. Joe Kozar presided and Sr. Laura Leming received Sr. Emily’s vows. Novice Paul Pruski assisted as an acolyte, reflecting the continuing spirit of Marianist vocations and service.

The Marianist Province of the United States has been blessed to walk alongside Sr. Emily throughout her journey — from her early discernment in West Hills to formation weekends, novitiate experiences, ministry at the Marianist Mission, and service with University of Dayton Campus Ministry. Her “yes” to God through perpetual profession is an inspiring reminder of the power of faithful commitment, joyful service, and living the Gospel in community.

Those who wish to view the recorded livestream of the celebration may click here. You can also find more photos here.

Novice Paul Pruski, Sr. Laura Leming, Sr. Emily Sandoval
Sr. Emily surrounded by family members
Fr. Joe Kozar, Lay Marianist Jack Dalton, Sr. Emily Sandoval
Sr. Emily with her immediate family and Marianist Sisters

“Yes, Mother!” More Than an Exclamation, It’s a Commitment

¡Sí, Madre! community, seven members of other MLCs who renewed their commitments, with Bro. Dan Klco and Fr. John Thompson

Just in time for Mother’s Day, a new generation of young Marianists at St. Mary’s University proclaimed a heartfelt “yes” to the Blessed Mother through their commitments as Lay Marianists.

The newly formed Marianist Lay Community (MLC) chose the name ¡Sí, Madre! — Spanish for “Yes, Mother!” — a joyful expression of their love for Mary and their desire to follow Christ in the Marianist spirit. In a world often searching for belonging and purpose, these students found both in community, faith, and the loving example of Mary.

Three members of the new community — Sofía Barrera, Sierra Reyes,  and Isaac Medina — made their commitments during Mass on Sunday, May 3. One additional member, Juan Zapata, made his commitment a week later on Sunday, May 10.

The celebrations were a beautiful witness to the growing Marianist Charism on campus and the power of accompaniment across generations. Assisting throughout the semester was Yasmín Rodriguez, a member of the Stella Maris MLC who made her own commitment at St. Mary’s in 2019.

These commitments serve as a moving reminder that Mary continues to gather her children together, leading them closer to her Son. Like Mary’s own faithful “yes” to God, the members of ¡Sí, Madre! responded with courage, hope, and trust — inspiring the entire Marianist Family to do the same.

✨Service Spotlight 🔦

St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School Trash Bash
St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School Trash Bash

Park Pick Up Projects

This spring, Marianist students, faculty, and families put their faith into action through environmental cleanup efforts inspired by the Marianist Family Encounters Project (MFEP).

At St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School in St. Louis, volunteers gathered at Sr. Marie Charles Park along the Mississippi River and removed more than 450 pounds of trash, including old tires, shopping carts, hundreds of pounds of plastic, and used needles, keeping this material out of our shared drinking water during the annual “Trash Bash” cleanup. The urban park, named after Sr. Marie Charles Buford, CSJ, sits directly on the Mississippi River and is used by many unhoused neighbors.  

“We view the cleanup as an opportunity to bring the love of Mary and Christ to this area by helping to create a slightly safer and more dignified space. Our students respond very enthusiastically to serve in an active, physical manner,” said Curt Sidorski, MFEP School Ministry Co-Lead. “The MFEP challenges us to hear the cry of the poor and the cry of the Earth. We feel that this effort, in a small but real way, does both.”

At Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School in Cleveland, OH, students joined faculty and neighboring communities for an Earth Day “Big Clean” of parks, streets, and public spaces. Each community collected 103 bags of trash, tying in a friendly competition for the most garbage gathered. Students also assisted environmental education vendors, helping promote sustainability and recycling awareness.

Both schools demonstrated a shared Marianist commitment to service, encounter, and stewardship. Whether along the banks of the Mississippi River or the shores of Lake Erie, students discovered that even small acts can become powerful signs of hope for both people and the planet.

Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School Big Clean
Villa Angela-St. Joseph High School Big Clean

Marianist Moments

Timeless Educational Wisdom

How do we continue educating with integrity when the world around us is rapidly shifting? In his latest article, Marianist Education: Confidence and Conscience, Bro. Tom Giardino examines the intersection of “confidence” and “conscience” through the lens of Fr. Joseph Simler’s leadership during his time as Superior General of the Society of Mary. Facing the intense secularization of eighteenth-century France, Simler’s leadership provides a blueprint for maintaining an educational mission without sacrificing personal integrity. Inspired by the English volumes of The General History of the Society of Mary, Bro. Tom connects the Marianists’ historical roots to the professional and spiritual challenges we face in 2026.

Click here to read the full article. The first two volumes of The General History of the Society of Mary are available at the NACMS bookstore.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2022

Each year, the Society of Mary recognizes brothers and priests who are marking milestones of their first profession of vows or their priestly ordinations.

Thank you to our 2026 Jubilarians! We will highlight them over the course of the next few months in FamilyOnline. You can also click here to learn more about them.

FR. JAMES RUSSELL – 75 Years of Profession

Born in Pittsburgh, PA, in 1932, I attended St. Norbert grade school there, followed by Mt. St. John Postulate High School, before professing my First Vows on September 8, 1951, in Marcy, NY. I went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Dayton in 1954, completed my seminary studies at the Marianist University of Fribourg, Switzerland, in 1964, and earned a Master of Arts from Duquesne University in 1983… I left the classroom in 1972 to serve two years as Director of Novices at the Marianist Novitiate in Dayton before resuming my role as Campus Minister at UD from 1974 until 1995. Click here to read more.

BRO. FRANK DAMM – 70 Years of Profession

I was born in 1936 in Detroit, MI, where I attended Gesu Catholic School and Central Catholic High School before serving five years in the U.S. Navy.  I professed my First Vows on September 8, 1956, in Marcy, NY, and earned a BS in physics from the University of Dayton, an MS in astronomy, and a PhD in astrophysics, both from The Ohio State University. God has been very good to me in religious life as a Marianist Brother. Click here to read more.

BRO. PAUL JABLINSKI – 70 Years of Profession

I was born and raised in Dayton, OH, where I attended St. Adalbert parish school, followed by Chaminade High School. It was during these years that I received my vocational calling to religious life. I completed my first year of studying art in college before entering the novitiate in Marcy, NY, where I professed my First Vows on September 8, 1956, and my Final Vows on August 15, 1960. Click here to read more.

BRO. KENNETH THOMPSON – 70 Years of Profession

I was born and raised in Detroit, MI, where I attended St. Francis de Sales grade school before entering the Marianist Preparatory School in Beacon, NY, in 1952. I spent two years there before moving to the Marianist Prep in Dayton, OH, for one year, and returned to the novitiate in Marcy, NY, for my final year, where I professed First Vows on September 8, 1956. Click here to read more.

Good to Know

Walking with Mary: Strengthening Our Bonds with Our Blessed Mother

The North American Center for Marianist Studies (NACMS) is conducting an online program called Walking with Mary: Strengthening Our Bonds with Our Blessed Mother. It’s not too late to join, as there are two more sessions scheduled on June 3 and June 10 at 6:30 PM CST.  These conversations move beyond traditional perspectives to explore Mary’s role in our modern lives as a believer, prophet, God-bearer, disciple, and companion. Utilizing the journal Mary, Holy Possibility, this virtual, three-part program offers a welcoming space for you to share your personal reflections and rediscover how Mary’s profound journey can ignite your own spiritual imagination. It is a unique opportunity to connect with a supportive community to uncover the divine potential and “holy possibilities” waiting within ourselves. Registration is $15.

Note: Be sure you have purchased Mary, Holy Possibility, to be able to fully participate in the program.

Hearts United in Hope

The Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus will be observed this year on June 12, 2026. But the day before, Catholics across the nation will join in a historic moment as the U.S. bishops consecrate the United States to the Sacred Heart of Jesus during the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. The consecration invites all people to place the nation under Christ’s loving mercy, healing, and peace.

The following day, June 13, the Church celebrates the Immaculate Heart of Mary, reminding Marianists and all Catholics that the hearts of Jesus and Mary are forever united in love and compassion. Together, these sacred celebrations call us to renew our faith, serve others with courage, and entrust our country and communities to God’s care.

Click here to learn more about the national consecration and find resources to join the commemoration. National resources, novenas, parish guides, and devotional initiatives are being prepared.

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Chaminade University (HI) – Director of Campus Ministry

Chaminade University (HI) – Campus Minister

Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School (OH) – Assistant to Principal and President

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Marianist Encounters Newsletters from the Marianist Family Encounters Project

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #103 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 4,000 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

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Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Guess Who’s Back—Back Again

Joseph Ellis-Vela to the left of Fr. Bob Jones at UD
StMU/Holy Rosary Confirmations with Fr. Neville O'Donohue
CUH Confirmations with Fr. Chris Wittmann (2025)
Vianney student Confirmation with Bro. Chicago Schuller (Center)

Across the country, a quiet but powerful movement is taking shape on college campuses, drawing the attention of national media outlets. The Catholic Church is seeing a surge as more students are yearning for meaning and a community of faith.

At University of Dayton (UD), the number of student Confirmations tripled this year to 24. But the real story is not the number—it’s the intention behind it. “These are students who are actively deciding that this is something they value,” said Katie Matthews, Campus Minister for Liturgy and Sacraments at UD.

For UD student Joseph Ellis-Vela, that decision came after years of waiting due to the demands of college football. Now, he sees it as a defining step forward. “Choosing Confirmation as an adult feels like finally stepping into the person I’m meant to be,” he said. “I plan to enter the police academy, and I know the work will be unpredictable. I don’t want to just be a face in the crowd. I want to be a helping hand for people on their worst days, and my faith gives me the peace to lead with my heart.”

His experience was made even more meaningful by his sponsor—his mother. “It felt wonderful knowing I am accepting my faith with the person who helped me get to this point in my life.”

At St. Mary’s University (StMU), a similar spirit is flourishing. During Easter 2026 and Intercollegiate Confirmation, eight students received sacraments, including Confirmations, First Communions, and a Baptism. Additionally, two recent graduates were confirmed, and seven other students are currently engaged in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) sessions to receive sacraments this fall and next year.

This growth is perhaps fueled by a strong sense of community, especially through the university’s partnership with nearby Holy Rosary Catholic Church. “Our daily Masses have shown a steady increase in student attendance as well as our Sunday Masses,” reported Deacon Albert Sanchez, Director of University Ministry at StMU and pastoral team member at Holy Rosary.

He notes that many students are also choosing to “reclaim” their faith once they arrive on campus, inspired by their peers. “They see many other students being active in their faith and feel more comfortable doing the same.”

In an uncertain world, students have revealed that they find refuge and a sense of hope in a community of faith. “I believe St. Mary’s is capitalizing on these growing interests by offering solid support of our affiliate student organizations such as the Catholic Student Association, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Athletics, Rattlers for Life, Student Government, and Greek Life. It’s quite moving how these organizations then, in turn, sponsor students financially to attend our Rattler Awakening retreats,” said Sanchez.

At Chaminade University of Honolulu, Fr. Marty Solma shared, “We had eight Confirmations last year and four this year, which is fairly standard for us.” He explained that many of the students commute and receive sacraments in their home parishes.

The movement is unmistakable, though—and it is beginning even before college.

Gross Catholic High School in Omaha, NE, recently welcomed three students and one teacher into the Church. St. John Vianney High School rejoiced as a coach and a student were welcomed into the Catholic faith, reflecting in a social media post, “Moments like these remind us of the strength of our brotherhood and the beauty of faith that unites us.”

Together, these moments tell a larger story. From high schools to universities, whether they be Marianist, Catholic, private, or public, students are not simply inheriting faith—they are choosing it. It’s a hopeful turn of events, especially given that a few years ago, research indicated a deep decline. Fr. James Heft co-authored the book Empty Churches: Where Have All the Young People Gone? In it, he examined why many young people had drifted away from the Church—citing a lack of connection, belonging, and meaningful engagement. What is happening now suggests young adults are once again finding community and purpose and are choosing to belong. And in that choice, the Marianist Mission continues to come alive in a new generation.

Gross Catholic Student & Teacher Confirmations
Confirmations at Church of the Immaculate Conception (Dayton) with Bro. Ed Longbottom (Back Left)
Vianney President Ian Mulligan (L) with Confirmed Coach Chris Starkey '09
StMU/Holy Rosary Stations of the Cross

Bro. Robert Moriarty recently wrote an article that looks at the increasing number of Marianist Lay Communities at a time of an aging and decreasing number of religious.

In the article, Aggiornamento, Ressourcement, and the Development of the Marianist Charism, he writes, “With this emergence, there has also developed an increasing recognition of our Marianist Family identity, the essential relatedness and interdependence that calls all the branches to a more collaborative engagement in pursuit of the common mission we share.”

Marianists have a strong history of serving the Church and rising to the challenge. By reconnecting with its roots and responding to today’s needs, the Marianist Family is ready to begin a new era of service. Click here to read the full article.

In The News

Beatification of Archbishop Fulton Sheen

Father Lawrence Monheim, S.M. and Archbishop Fulton Sheen 1953

Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen will be beatified by the Catholic Church on Sept. 24, 2026 at the Dome at America’s Center in St. Louis.

Sheen was internationally known in the mid-20th century as a television personality and evangelizer. In 1930, he started a radio show, The Catholic Hour, which attracted millions of weekly listeners during its 20-year run. In 1951, his nationally syndicated television show, Life Is Worth Living, began and ran until 1957 and earned Sheen an Emmy for “Most Outstanding Television Personality.”

Sheen was also a well-regarded author of religious works, writing more than 20 books, including The World’s First Love. In 1953, the Marian Library awarded Sheen its first Marian Library Medal, honoring him for his moving reflections on the Blessed Virgin Mary. Upon receiving word of the award, Sheen wrote,

“I am deeply grateful for your decision, and for a tribute that delights my heart. May I receive this honor, as the window pane receives the rays of light, not to store them, but to let them pass through me, back again to God, the Giver of all gifts.”

Marian Library director Fr. Lawrence Monheim, S.M., presented the medal to Sheen in New York on July 16, 1953. In gratitude, Sheen gave the Marian Library a signed copy of The World’s First Love, which today resides in the Marian Library’s rare books collection and can be viewed upon request.

Click here to read about the miracle that put him on the path to beatification.

U.S. News and World Report Ranks St. Mary’s Among Best

The St. Mary’s University School of Law Advocacy Programs ranked in the top 15 in the nation by U.S. News and World Report — tied for the No. 12 spot in the 2026 Best Graduate School Rankings of Trial Advocacy Programs released today. This is an increase of four spots from last year’s ranking in this category.

“St. Mary’s University School of Law remains committed to providing an excellent legal education that includes exceptional opportunities for skill building to talented students who embrace our Catholic and Marianist values of service, justice and peace,” said Patricia Roberts, J.D., St. Mary’s School of Law Dean.

For the second consecutive year, two members of the St. Mary’s Law National Dispute Resolution Team were named national champions at the American Bar Association Negotiation Competition. Kendall Michaelis and Caroline Villarreal, both third-year J.D. students, won the 2026 national championship in Chicago. This qualifies them to compete for the second time on the international level. The National Team is ranked No. 4 in the nation by the American Bar Association for 2025. For the last eight years, the St. Mary’s Advocacy Program has been ranked by the ABA in the top 10 in the country.

✨Service Spotlight 🔦

Retreat Guest to Faithful Volunteer

The first thing people might notice about Tony Mercogliano isn’t what he does—it’s how he does it: unassuming and humbly. He was hesitant even to be interviewed about his volunteer work at the Marianist Family Retreat Center (MFRC) in Cape May, NJ. “I usually like to stay out of the spotlight,” Tony admitted. “But I’m willing to take a step out of my comfort zone.”

That humility has shaped a lifetime of service rooted in his early Marianist formation that began as a high school student at Chaminade High School in Mineola, NY, in 1960. “The one extracurricular activity from my high school days which has carried over my entire life was membership in the Sodality of Our Lady of the Pillar Marianist Lay Community,” he reflected.

By 1966, while attending Manhattan University, Tony found himself visiting Cape May—back when it was simply a gathering place for college-age Marianist communities seeking retreat and renewal. He didn’t know it then, but Cape May would become a thread woven through the fabric of his life. In the 1980s, he, his wife Kay, and their daughter Anne began attending family retreats at MFRC, which then led to volunteer work that continues to this day.

“In the last four years since my wife passed away, I’ve been volunteering about every 6 to 8 weeks,” he shared. “I’ve done just about every possible job from being the kitchen assistant, hosting retreats, painting, and cutting the grass. Recently, I’ve helped in updating and publishing a booklet on the history of this ministry.”

There is no task too small, no role too insignificant. “Tony is truly dedicated. He lives in Virginia and travels four to five hours at least 15-20 times a year, and we are so blessed to have him,” exclaimed MFRC Director Anthony Fucci.

Ask Tony what keeps him coming back, and his answer is simple—but profound. “Volunteering gives me an opportunity to help spread the Marianist Charism of hospitality and acceptance,” Tony said. “The fact that after a 23-year career in the U.S. Navy, I love the ocean and the beach helps too.”

It isn’t the beauty of the beach that keeps him coming back, though; it’s the community and faith that flourish beside it. “The best part of my time at the Cape is meeting new people and reconnecting with old friends. Listening to the stories of the events which brought each one of these folks to, and back to, the MFRC helps to strengthen and renew my faith.”

It’s in those stories—in shared meals, quiet conversations, and moments of prayer—that Tony finds the heart of his service.

Tony encourages everyone to experience a retreat at MFRC.

They offer retreats for teenagers, young adults, women, men, and senior citizens on topics such as Contemplative Prayer, the Gift of Aging, and many more.

For single folks, if you’re not sure where to start, he suggests one of the  Spiritual Getaway Day programs held every spring and fall. For married couples, there is a great Couples Retreat each September. For families, he suggests one of the Advent Family Weekends in December.

Click here for a listing of the wide range of retreats available.

Marianist Moments

Bringing the Marianist Mission to Malawi

Photograph courtesy Karonga Diocese

University of Dayton doctoral physiotherapy student Jacob Hammye ’27 traveled last spring to serve at clinics in Malawi, Southeastern Africa. Each day began with early morning Mass, grounding the team’s work in prayer before caring for patients and supporting local clinicians.

Driven by a desire to serve others, Hammye treated patients, shared knowledge, and even led a presentation on cerebral palsy—living out the Marianist call to educate for service and build community.

More than a clinical experience, the trip became a moment of spiritual growth. “I was able to reflect on my ‘why,’” Hammye shared, crediting the mentorship and faith-centered mission that shaped his journey.

He returned home with a deeper sense of humility and gratitude, inspired by the strong faith and community he witnessed. For Hammye, the experience affirmed a simple Marianist truth: when rooted in faith, service becomes a powerful way to bring hope to the world. Click here to read the original story featured in UD magazine.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2022

Good to Know

Honoring the Fiat

A contemplative retreat pondering personal Fiat will be held at the Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning, in Dayton, OH, May 8-9.  In honor of Mother’s Day, the following day, this retreat will honor  Mother Mary, the mothers in your personal lives, as well as the creative, nurturing force in all human souls. The retreat facilitator, Jen Straw, has led more than 100 retreats, bringing wisdom, compassion, and creativity to individual and group sessions. Let It Be will be a focal point of the discernment for participants. Click here to read more and register. 

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Chaminade University (HI) – Director of Campus Ministry

Chaminade University (HI) – Campus Minister

Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School (OH) – Assistant to Principal and President

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Marianist Encounters Newsletters from the Marianist Family Encounters Project

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #102 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Wayfinders: Where Curiosity Meets Faith

For many young people, high school is a time filled with questions like: Who am I? What do I believe? What is God calling me to do? A unique summer experience is helping students explore those questions through the lens of Catholic theology and Marianist Charism.

Now entering its fourth year at University of Dayton, Wayfinders is a four-day, one college-credit summer program designed for high school sophomores, juniors, and seniors. Sponsored by the Marianist Foundation, it is a commitment to Marianist education and formation, presenting theology not only as something studied in a classroom but rather as a path for exploring how God is at work in our lives.

“I didn’t really have many thoughts about religion. It’s just not what I spend my time thinking about. So, getting four days to think more deeply about it opened my field of vision to be more accepting of the idea that religion can be an important aspect of my life,” said Ryan, former Wayfinders participant and mentor-in-training.

It’s an opportunity to openly ponder questions about God, faith, and life – topics sometimes intense or awkward for young minds to navigate. The program’s name itself points to a deeper purpose. Drawing from the Marianist emphasis on community and mission, Wayfinders encourages students to discern where God might be leading them and how their gifts can serve others.

“It’s a way to explore service opportunities, too, like going to Mission of Mary and Mount Saint John. You get a lot of different aspects through this program,” said Elise Abshire, Wayfinders mentor and UD grad student.

The sense of community that develops quickly builds bonds, too, as the teenagers realize their peers are also searching and wondering about their faith.

“You’re essentially celebrating your faith with people you care about,” said Wayfinders participant, Noah. Another participant, Eli, added that, “It was a sort of meditative time, but it was also fun because you had people your age to hang out with.”

For Dr. Timothy Gabrielli, UD Religious Studies associate professor and a leader of the program, Wayfinders reflects the Marianist commitment to forming the whole person. “We want young people to see that theology is a way of reflecting on their lives, their hopes, and how God is present in the world,” Gabrielli said.

While this program is hosted on the university campus in Dayton, OH, travel funds from the Marianist Foundation are also now available to help students from across the wider Marianist Family participate. Scholarships are available as well, so that expense does not become a barrier for interested students. The cost of the program includes housing in a residence hall, meals, materials, and college credit.

♦ Click here to learn more and register. This year’s program in Dayton will be held June 5-8.

♦ Click here to hear directly from participants and see some of the activities involved.

The program has proven to be such a success with lasting impacts that St. Mary’s University in Texas launched its own Wayfinders experience, which is now in its second year.  Hosted by the St. Mary’s Center for Catholic Studies, high school students and college freshmen, too, are invited to join the four-day experience.

This summer’s San Antonio program will be held June 25-28, 2026, with registration sign-up starting soon.

In The News

Sixty Years of Quiet Impact

The halls of Archbishop Moeller High School in Cincinnati, OH, have been blessed by the steady presence of Bro. Robert Flaherty, for more than 60 years. Since 1964, he has walked alongside generations of students as a counselor, teacher, mentor, and Marianist Brother—accompanying every graduating class through moments of challenge, growth, and discovery.

Bro. Flaherty’s influence has rarely been loud or showy. Instead, it has been the quiet kind that shapes lives over time: a listening ear during a difficult moment, a word of encouragement before a big decision, or a gentle reminder to trust in God’s guidance. For countless alumni and their families, he has been far more than an educator. He has been a trusted guide and a living witness to Marianist values—faith, service, community, and a deep commitment to forming young people.

Now, after six decades of faithful service, he is retiring from Moeller. While the classroom doors may close behind him, the impact of his ministry will continue to echo through the lives of the “Men of Moeller” he has helped shape.

The Moeller community will gather to celebrate Bro. Flaherty’s remarkable legacy on April 1 – no joke! Students and faculty will honor him during an all-school Mass, followed by a reception later that afternoon, where alumni, colleagues, and friends can offer their gratitude in person. There will also be a livestream of the event available that you can click here to watch.

A scholarship established in Brother Flaherty’s name will continue his lifelong mission—opening doors for future students and nurturing the same spirit of character, leadership, and purpose that he has fostered for decades. Click here for more information.

In the Marianist tradition, education is not only about knowledge but about accompanying young people as they grow into the persons God calls them to be. For 60 years, Bro. Robert has lived that mission faithfully at one school, Moeller, and that in itself is a unique achievement. May Mary continue to guide, and God bless him abundantly in this new chapter of his life.

From Classroom to Commendation

More than four decades after he last taught in its classrooms, Bro. Tom Pieper will return to Purcell Marian High School in Cincinnati, OH, in a different role—this time as an honoree. The longtime Marianist educator was recently announced as a recipient of the school’s Praestans Award, recognizing a life of faith-filled service that continues to ripple through generations.

From 1967 to 1984, Bro. Tom was a constant presence at Purcell, teaching religion across all grade levels while immersing himself in student life. Whether moderating retreats, guiding the Marianist LIFE program, supporting the student council, or cheering alongside students at events, he built connections that extended far beyond the classroom.

“I put my heart and soul into whatever I would do, so that students would do the same and grow from the experiences,” Bro. Tom reflected. “To receive this award years after being away from the school means a lot to me…that the men and women, who are older now, remember the interactions and experiences we had together.”

That enduring impact is what this award celebrates. “His lifelong dedication to students and Marianist values continues to inspire all who encounter him. He remains a constant figure in the lives of many Purcell alumni by attending reunions and sporting events, and meeting regularly with former students for lunch,” said Director of Marketing and Communications Steven Bohné.

In honoring Bro. Tom as praestans inter omnes—“outstanding among all”—the school celebrates not only a remarkable past, but a living witness whose dedication continues to shape lives today. He will be presented with the award at a grand gala on April 25, 2026.

Bro. Tom currently continues his ministry at University of Dayton, accompanying students through Campus Ministry.

Gallery Display

A posthumous exhibit of work from Bro. John Lemker (1932-2024) is on display at the Edward A Dixon Gallery in Dayton, OH, until April 12, 2026.

Lemker was an acclaimed photographer whose images appeared in prominent publications such as Time-Life Books and International Wildlife, as well as anchoring the former Gallery St. John at Mount Saint John in Dayton. He considered his work “behind the lens” a form of prayer. He appreciated the natural beauty of God’s world and wanted to share that appreciation with others.

If you’d like to see more of his artwork, click here.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Before the Bell

On Friday mornings, something remarkable happens at Chaminade College Preparatory in St. Louis before the first bell even rings. As the campus slowly comes to life, hundreds of students make their way to the chapel—not for a required class or obligation, but by choice. They gather for weekly Mass or prayer services organized by Chaminade’s Marianist LIFE Community (MLC), a student-led faith group that has become one of the largest and most vibrant organizations on campus.

“I joined MLC during my freshman year,” says senior Alex Barnes ’26, “but became a very active member during my junior year.” At first, his participation was shaped by friendships and admiration for older students. “The CORE members at the time were people I looked up to and wanted to be more like,” Barnes explains.

MLC Core Members are juniors and seniors who serve as peer leaders having participated in Marianist LIFE (Living in Faith Experience), a weeklong summer retreat held in Dayton or California that connects students from Marianist schools and parishes across the United States and around the world. Throughout the year, they then continue their formation through retreats and small groups that help them guide their peers with authenticity and care.

For many students, the appeal of MLC lies in the way it creates space for faith without pressure or expectation. “For me, it is important to have a time dedicated to faith before my day begins as a way to center myself,” Barnes shares. “It is a great time to slow down and reflect on the week before.” Because attendance is completely voluntary, the atmosphere feels different from many other school activities. “Only the people who want to be there show up,” he says, “and this creates a great environment of people who are enthusiastic and excited to share their faith.”

The growth of MLC has been striking. This year, nearly 200 students arrive early to attend Friday morning Mass, with regular participation often exceeding 100 students.

“When other students embrace their faith and invite other students to do the same, then the formation in faith is shared—a community is formed—and bonds are created,” states MLC Moderator Dr. Andrew Schmitt ’95.

Click here to read the full story!

Marianist Moments

Baptismal Vows Blossom and Grow

L-R: Bro. Dan Klco, Sierra Reyes, Isaac Medina, Sophia Barrera, Juan Zapata, and Fr. John Thompson

As the Church celebrates the joy and renewal of the Easter season, a group of students at St. Mary’s University is living out that spirit of new life in a special way. Earlier this semester, they took an important step in their Marianist journey by making their Consecration to Mary, the first milestone in forming a new Marianist Lay Community.

For weeks, the students met regularly for prayer and formation, reflecting on Mary’s role in the life of faith. This time of preparation helps them deepen their relationship with Mary and understand how her example of faith and discipleship guides Marianists in living their own “yes” to God’s call.

Fr. John Thompson invited both the students and the congregation at Mass to participate in the renewal of their baptismal vows—the same powerful ritual proclaimed at the Easter vigil before the Baptism of catechumens.

This connection to the Church’s Easter liturgy is intentional. Throughout their formation meetings, the students reflect on how their consecration to Mary—and eventually their commitment as Lay Marianists—is not something separate from their Baptism, but rather a deepening of it. Their parents and godparents first professed faith on their behalf at Baptism; now these students are embracing that promise more consciously and intentionally.

In the light of Easter, this moment carries even deeper meaning. The Resurrection reminds us all that new life in Christ begins at Baptism but continues to grow throughout one’s life.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2022

1960s
2023

Fr. Quentin Hakenewerth, 96, died on March 4, 2026, in San Antonio, TX, with 77 years of religious profession. He was a beloved spiritual director, author, administrator, formator, missionary, parish priest, teacher, and chaplain, who also served as the 12th Superior General of the Society of Mary (1991-96). He often expressed deep gratitude for his Marianist vocation, noting that his most rewarding life experience was “to discover the tremendous grace that God has given us through Blessed Chaminade in the Marianist Charism, and to have the privilege of living that charism – even so poorly – and to share it with others.”

Click here to read his full obituary.

Click here to see pictures of Fr. Quentin through the years.

Unknown Date
2015

Bro. Leo Slay, 94, died on March 19, 2026, in San Antonio, TX, with 76 years of religious profession. Brother Leo was a beloved cook and hospitality professional who drew on his family’s decades of experience in the restaurant industry to bring a distinctive Marianist spirit to his life of service. Remembered for the welcoming presence he brought to every community in which he lived, Brother Leo also built a legacy of achievement in food service circles that led to him being named to several different Halls of Fame in the industry.

Click here to read his full obituary.

Click here to see pictures of Bro. Leo through the years.

Good to Know

You’re Invited!

You’re invited to the national assembly of the Marianist Lay Communities (MLC-NA) taking place in Louisville, KY, July 23-26, 2026. These assemblies bring together members from all corners of the Marianist Family every three years.

Features include:

  • Keynote discussions led by Prof. Natalia Imperatori-Lee (Fordham University) and master community builder, Graham McBain
  • Interactive workshops on Marianist spirituality, community animation, and living our mission in daily life
  • Communal prayer and liturgical celebrations, including Mass, and opportunities for shared spiritual reflection
  • Connect with Marianists from across North America by sharing experiences, building relationships, breaking down silos, and strengthening our family

Click here for more information.

Mary, Way of Hope

The Patronal Feast of the Marianist Family was just celebrated on March 25, the Annunciation of the Lord. It was an opportunity to ask Mary to help us say “yes,” as she did. Saying yes to God – what a responsibility!

For Mary, it was a show of faith and love; for the Marianist Family, it signifies hope. The World Council of the Marianist Family (WCFM) chose this year’s Annunciation theme to be “Mary, Way of Hope.”

The WCFM, as it does every year, distributed a prayer and reflection guide. In part, it states, “As the Marianist Family commemorates its vocation to give thanks and celebrate the joy of giving. To keep in mind such generosity of the Lord, let us follow in the footsteps of Mary: in whom ‘hope finds its greatest witness’ (Spes non confundit, N° 24). Let the Magnificat burst forth in our hearts. Let us express our joy and gratitude to God for the wonders He has done in each of our lives and in our families. Let us sing this canticle of Mary with her, so that she may imprint in us the mark of her own full and active hope.”

Click here to see the full guide with the canticle and prayer intentions to help guide us throughout the year.

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Chaminade University (HI) – Director of Campus Ministry

Chaminade University (HI) – Campus Minister

Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School (OH) – Assistant to Principal and President

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Marianist Encounters Newsletters from the Marianist Family Encounters Project

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #102 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

A Saint’s Story Renewed—Thanks to Chaminade University Science

Students Emma Rosales and Samantha Casarrubias, Dr. Carlos Gutiérrez Ayala, and anthropologist Vincent Sava

At Chaminade University of Honolulu (CUH), the Marianist tradition of educating for service, justice, peace, and the integrity of creation is not just a motto—it is lived daily. That mission took on extraordinary significance as the Catholic Church entrusted the CUH Forensic Sciences Unit with a sacred task: helping recover and preserve the remains of Saint Marianne Cope, beloved caregiver of those with leprosy at Kalaupapa, HI.

Chaminade’s Forensic Sciences Unit—founded 30 years ago and recognized as one of the most innovative programs in the Pacific—was uniquely prepared for the challenge.

Under the guidance of forensic anthropologist Vincent Sava, the team is using professional-grade forensic techniques to sift soil, identify bone fragments, and honor the saint’s remains with the reverence they deserve. Students are working side-by-side with faculty, gaining a hands-on experience found at few universities.

This collaboration stands as a testament to Chaminade’s deep commitment to serving the Church and the people of Hawai‘i.

Bishop Silva, President Lynn Babington and Gutiérrez Ayala Carlos

During a recent visit, Bishop Larry Silva, along with Chaminade President Dr. Lynn Babington, witnessed firsthand the precision and care being brought to the project. Their visit highlighted the university’s unique role as a Marianist center of learning dedicated to forming both the mind and the heart.

Director of the Forensic Sciences Unit Dr. Carlos Gutiérrez Ayala described the work as “a profound educational moment,” giving students a chance to combine scientific training with a spiritual and historical responsibility. “This is the kind of experience,” he said, “that shapes not only careers, but character.”

With each soil sample examined and each fragment preserved, CUH demonstrates what it means to be a Marianist university in action: uniting intellect with compassion, and academic excellence with service to others.

A Legacy Continued Through Science and Faith

Saint Marianne—beatified in 2005 and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012—devoted her life to caring for those abandoned by society. She was a German-born American Franciscan nun who traveled from Syracuse, NY, to the Kingdom of Hawai’i in the late 1800s to help build the medical infrastructure. She’s most famous for her work tending to the spiritual and medical needs of leprosy patients at Kalaupapa, Moloka’i. Now, Chaminade students carry forward her legacy through their meticulous work. The bone fragments recovered will be shared with parishes across Hawai’i, allowing communities to honor the saint who once walked among them.

Click here for more information about the CUH Forensic Sciences program.

Additional photos linked here. Media coverage linked here.

In The News

From the Heart to the Future

University of Dayton (UD) President Eric F. Spina announced he will retire in June 2027, closing an 11-year chapter marked by steady leadership, student focus, and a renewed emphasis on the university’s Marianist mission. In a message on his From the Heart blog, Spina said the decision followed “months of reflection, prayer, and conversation,” calling it “without a doubt, the hardest thing I have ever done.”

“Dr. Spina’s successful decade-plus as president has brought transparent leadership, stability, and inspiration,” said Deb Tobias, chair of the board of trustees, noting his impact on philanthropy, community partnerships, and a welcoming, student-centered campus culture. Provost Darlene Weaver added that Spina helped redefine UD as a “university for the common good,” pairing vision with a human touch.

Since 2016, Spina has been a visible presence on campus—at move-in days, student town halls, and Flyer games—while advancing access and affordability and strengthening UD’s role as an anchor institution. Under his leadership, the university completed the We Soar fundraising campaign, expanded opportunities for lower-income and first-generation students, and earned national recognition from American Talent Initiative and Bloomberg Philanthropies for progress with lower-income students. The campus also saw major investments, including upgrades to UD Arena and the opening of the Roger Glass Center for the Arts, along with community partnerships such as onMain with Premier Health.

The board will engage a search firm to guide the process. For now, Spina’s message is simple: the work continues—rooted in Marianist values, and aimed squarely at the common good. Click here to read more.

Chaminade Julienne Names New President

Following a comprehensive national search, Dr. David Wright has been named as the next president of Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School (CJ) in Dayton, OH.

Wright, who currently serves as the headmaster of Subiaco Academy in Arkansas, was selected to replace outgoing president Dan Meixner ’84. Meixner announced in April 2025 that he would be stepping down at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year after 22 years in the role.

“David embodies the values of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and the Marianists. The feedback from interactions he had with our teachers, staff members, leadership team, parents, alumni, coaches, and our founders was absolutely off the charts. He truly resonates with and embraces the sense of the CJ family spirit,” stated Kevin Weckesser, ’93, chair of the Board of Trustees.

“I join our assistant for education, Bro. Jesse O’Neill, in gratitude for Dr. David Wright’s leadership to continue to nurture the faith, community, and inspiring service that are pillars of the Marianist Charism found at Chaminade Julienne,” said Provincial of the Marianist Province of the United States Fr. Oscar Vasquez. “Our prayers and congratulations to the CJ community as he prepares to lead the school into this hopeful new chapter.”

Mirror of Hope

The Three O’Clock Prayer is a Marianist tradition rooted in the act of coming together to pray as a community. It is especially meaningful during Lent as it recalls the death of Jesus Christ on the cross and the role of Mary in salvation.

With donor support to the Marian Library Fund, the Marian Library is offering a newly designed prayer card with the  Three O’Clock Prayer printed on the reverse side.

The cards feature Jesus on the cross as depicted in the “Mirror of Hope,” an art installation in the Marian Library by artist Kevin Hanna. The 12-foot-wide, 5-foot-high sculpture was commissioned by the Marian Library in 2000 as a visual story of creation, Incarnation, Resurrection, and Redemption. As it was made just for the University of Dayton (UD), the piece includes a temple-like structure with a cupola and brick gateways reminiscent of those on the University’s iconic Immaculate Conception Chapel, making the entire art piece a favorite of UD visitors.

Two versions of the card have been printed, one in English and one in Spanish. Click here for English and Spanish versions that are available to download, print, and share.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Summer Camp Became a Calling

Leo Tierney

Archbishop Moeller High School senior Leo Tierney was first introduced to Agape Latte during a summer camp at Boston College. It is a popular, student-led coffeehouse-style speaker series that originated at Boston College in 2006 to explore faith, love, and life in an informal setting. It’s a program that fosters meaningful conversations around faith, vocation, and service. Inspired by that experience, Leo helped bring an Agape Latte chapter to Moeller so students could engage in similar dialogue.

Bro. Bob Donovan

Students recently gathered for an Agape Latte featuring Bro. Bob Donovan, who shared his journey from practicing medicine to becoming a Marianist Brother. He spoke about his work providing medical services to individuals experiencing homelessness in downtown Cincinnati and how that work has evolved throughout his career. Currently serving at the Respite Care Center, Bro. Bob also shared his excitement about moving into a new facility designed to better serve individuals with disabilities.

Students were deeply moved by Bro. Bob’s kindness, humility, and genuine dedication to serving others. His reflections encouraged many to think more intentionally about how they hope to live lives rooted in compassion and service.

Marianist Moments

A Small Yes — A Lasting Witness

L-R: Bro. Dan Klco, Stela Sifuentes, Molly Forestal, Emmanuel Varela, Andrew Martini, Stephen Garcia, Fr. John Tompson, Julianne Peña

On an unusually cold Sunday morning in San Antonio, TX, something beautifully hopeful took root. A group of St. Mary’s University students gathered not just to attend Mass, but to make a commitment—to one another, to Mary, and to a way of life shaped by faith in action. With that simple but profound step on January 25, 2026, they officially formed a new Marianist Lay Community: Parve Sodilitia Mariae.

The name, drawn from Latin, loosely means “Mary’s little group” or “Mary’s small fellowship.” It’s a humble title, but one rich with history and meaning. It reaches all the way back to the Bordeaux Sodality, the first Lay Marianist community founded in 1801 by Blessed William Joseph Chaminade. In choosing this name, these students placed themselves squarely within that living tradition—one that believes small communities, rooted in prayer and mission, can help renew the Church and transform the world.

Their commitment marks a promise to walk together in faith, to support one another, and to live Marianist values through service, prayer, and community. Like the first sodalists more than two centuries ago, this “little group” begins with simple steps—and a big hope—that God will do something extraordinary through their shared “yes.”

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2022

Good to Know

The Annunciation in Color, Symbol, and Faith

The Marian Library invites visitors into a rich and prayerful encounter with one of the most beloved moments in Christian art and devotion: the Annunciation. Two new exhibits—each distinct yet beautifully connected—will be on display through October 23, offering fresh ways to reflect on Mary’s courageous “yes” and the mystery it set into motion.

Blessed Among Women features a collection of modern Annunciation artwork recently gifted to the Marian Library by collector John A. Kohan of the Sacred Art Pilgrim Collection. These contemporary pieces explore the Annunciation through varied styles, colors, and perspectives, showing how artists across time continue to be inspired by Mary’s faith, humility, and trust in God’s plan.

Complementing this collection is Fiat and Faith, on view in the Marian Library Gallery. This exhibit invites viewers to look more closely at the rich symbolism traditionally found in Annunciation scenes—light, lilies, books, gestures, and setting—and to discover how these visual details tell a deeper story of obedience, grace, and divine invitation.

Together, these exhibits offer more than an art experience; they create a space for contemplation, wonder, and renewed appreciation for how faith is expressed through beauty. Visitors are encouraged to linger, reflect, and see the Annunciation not only as a moment in history, but as a living story that continues to speak through art today.

Click here for more information.

Marian Forum – All Invited

All are welcome to attend the 2026 Marian Forum on Wednesday, March 25, in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception on the campus of the University of Dayton (UD). The forum is an academically-minded gathering focused on the Blessed Virgin Mary, incorporating liturgy and creative campus participation.

Can’t make it in person? No problem! It will also be livestreamed so everyone can attend. Save the date! Activities begin at 10 am (EST) with the livestream available here at that time.

This symposium provides a yearly occasion to reflect more deeply about Mary and the wide range of topics related to Mariology. Events include a lecture from University of Dayton Marian certificate student Rev. Thomas-Mary, O.C.D., a Eucharistic liturgy, and a talk from artist Holly Schapker.

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Marianist Encounters Newsletters from the Marianist Family Encounters Project

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #101 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

A Saint’s Story Renewed—Thanks to Chaminade University Science

Students Emma Rosales and Samantha Casarrubias, Dr. Carlos Gutiérrez Ayala, and anthropologist Vincent Sava

At Chaminade University of Honolulu (CUH), the Marianist tradition of educating for service, justice, peace, and the integrity of creation is not just a motto—it is lived daily. That mission took on extraordinary significance as the Catholic Church entrusted the CUH Forensic Sciences Unit with a sacred task: helping recover and preserve the remains of Saint Marianne Cope, beloved caregiver of those with leprosy at Kalaupapa, HI.

Chaminade’s Forensic Sciences Unit—founded 30 years ago and recognized as one of the most innovative programs in the Pacific—was uniquely prepared for the challenge.

Under the guidance of forensic anthropologist Vincent Sava, the team is using professional-grade forensic techniques to sift soil, identify bone fragments, and honor the saint’s remains with the reverence they deserve. Students are working side-by-side with faculty, gaining a hands-on experience found at few universities.

This collaboration stands as a testament to Chaminade’s deep commitment to serving the Church and the people of Hawai‘i.

Bishop Silva, President Lynn Babington and Gutiérrez Ayala Carlos

During a recent visit, Bishop Larry Silva, along with Chaminade President Dr. Lynn Babington, witnessed firsthand the precision and care being brought to the project. Their visit highlighted the university’s unique role as a Marianist center of learning dedicated to forming both the mind and the heart.

Director of the Forensic Sciences Unit Dr. Carlos Gutiérrez Ayala described the work as “a profound educational moment,” giving students a chance to combine scientific training with a spiritual and historical responsibility. “This is the kind of experience,” he said, “that shapes not only careers, but character.”

With each soil sample examined and each fragment preserved, CUH demonstrates what it means to be a Marianist university in action: uniting intellect with compassion, and academic excellence with service to others.

A Legacy Continued Through Science and Faith

Saint Marianne—beatified in 2005 and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012—devoted her life to caring for those abandoned by society. She was a German-born American Franciscan nun who traveled from Syracuse, NY, to the Kingdom of Hawai’i in the late 1800s to help build the medical infrastructure. She’s most famous for her work tending to the spiritual and medical needs of leprosy patients at Kalaupapa, Moloka’i. Now, Chaminade students carry forward her legacy through their meticulous work. The bone fragments recovered will be shared with parishes across Hawai’i, allowing communities to honor the saint who once walked among them.

Click here for more information about the CUH Forensic Sciences program.

Additional photos linked here. Media coverage linked here.

In The News

From the Heart to the Future

University of Dayton (UD) President Eric F. Spina announced he will retire in June 2027, closing an 11-year chapter marked by steady leadership, student focus, and a renewed emphasis on the university’s Marianist mission. In a message on his From the Heart blog, Spina said the decision followed “months of reflection, prayer, and conversation,” calling it “without a doubt, the hardest thing I have ever done.”

“Dr. Spina’s successful decade-plus as president has brought transparent leadership, stability, and inspiration,” said Deb Tobias, chair of the board of trustees, noting his impact on philanthropy, community partnerships, and a welcoming, student-centered campus culture. Provost Darlene Weaver added that Spina helped redefine UD as a “university for the common good,” pairing vision with a human touch.

Since 2016, Spina has been a visible presence on campus—at move-in days, student town halls, and Flyer games—while advancing access and affordability and strengthening UD’s role as an anchor institution. Under his leadership, the university completed the We Soar fundraising campaign, expanded opportunities for lower-income and first-generation students, and earned national recognition from American Talent Initiative and Bloomberg Philanthropies for progress with lower-income students. The campus also saw major investments, including upgrades to UD Arena and the opening of the Roger Glass Center for the Arts, along with community partnerships such as onMain with Premier Health.

The board will engage a search firm to guide the process. For now, Spina’s message is simple: the work continues—rooted in Marianist values, and aimed squarely at the common good. Click here to read more.

Chaminade Julienne Names New President

Following a comprehensive national search, Dr. David Wright has been named as the next president of Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School (CJ) in Dayton, OH.

Wright, who currently serves as the headmaster of Subiaco Academy in Arkansas, was selected to replace outgoing president Dan Meixner ’84. Meixner announced in April 2025 that he would be stepping down at the conclusion of the 2025-2026 school year after 22 years in the role.

“David embodies the values of the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur and the Marianists. The feedback from interactions he had with our teachers, staff members, leadership team, parents, alumni, coaches, and our founders was absolutely off the charts. He truly resonates with and embraces the sense of the CJ family spirit,” stated Kevin Weckesser, ’93, chair of the Board of Trustees.

“I join our assistant for education, Bro. Jesse O’Neill, in gratitude for Dr. David Wright’s leadership to continue to nurture the faith, community, and inspiring service that are pillars of the Marianist Charism found at Chaminade Julienne,” said Provincial of the Marianist Province of the United States Fr. Oscar Vasquez. “Our prayers and congratulations to the CJ community as he prepares to lead the school into this hopeful new chapter.”

Mirror of Hope

The Three O’Clock Prayer is a Marianist tradition rooted in the act of coming together to pray as a community. It is especially meaningful during Lent as it recalls the death of Jesus Christ on the cross and the role of Mary in salvation.

With donor support to the Marian Library Fund, the Marian Library is offering a newly designed prayer card with the  Three O’Clock Prayer printed on the reverse side.

The cards feature Jesus on the cross as depicted in the “Mirror of Hope,” an art installation in the Marian Library by artist Kevin Hanna. The 12-foot-wide, 5-foot-high sculpture was commissioned by the Marian Library in 2000 as a visual story of creation, Incarnation, Resurrection, and Redemption. As it was made just for the University of Dayton (UD), the piece includes a temple-like structure with a cupola and brick gateways reminiscent of those on the University’s iconic Immaculate Conception Chapel, making the entire art piece a favorite of UD visitors.

Two versions of the card have been printed, one in English and one in Spanish. Click here for English and Spanish versions that are available to download, print, and share.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Summer Camp Became a Calling

Leo Tierney

Archbishop Moeller High School senior Leo Tierney was first introduced to Agape Latte during a summer camp at Boston College. It is a popular, student-led coffeehouse-style speaker series that originated at Boston College in 2006 to explore faith, love, and life in an informal setting. It’s a program that fosters meaningful conversations around faith, vocation, and service. Inspired by that experience, Leo helped bring an Agape Latte chapter to Moeller so students could engage in similar dialogue.

Bro. Bob Donovan

Students recently gathered for an Agape Latte featuring Bro. Bob Donovan, who shared his journey from practicing medicine to becoming a Marianist Brother. He spoke about his work providing medical services to individuals experiencing homelessness in downtown Cincinnati and how that work has evolved throughout his career. Currently serving at the Respite Care Center, Bro. Bob also shared his excitement about moving into a new facility designed to better serve individuals with disabilities.

Students were deeply moved by Bro. Bob’s kindness, humility, and genuine dedication to serving others. His reflections encouraged many to think more intentionally about how they hope to live lives rooted in compassion and service.

Marianist Moments

A Small Yes — A Lasting Witness

L-R: Bro. Dan Klco, Stela Sifuentes, Molly Forestal, Emmanuel Varela, Andrew Martini, Stephen Garcia, Fr. John Tompson, Julianne Peña

On an unusually cold Sunday morning in San Antonio, TX, something beautifully hopeful took root. A group of St. Mary’s University students gathered not just to attend Mass, but to make a commitment—to one another, to Mary, and to a way of life shaped by faith in action. With that simple but profound step on January 25, 2026, they officially formed a new Marianist Lay Community: Parve Sodilitia Mariae.

The name, drawn from Latin, loosely means “Mary’s little group” or “Mary’s small fellowship.” It’s a humble title, but one rich with history and meaning. It reaches all the way back to the Bordeaux Sodality, the first Lay Marianist community founded in 1801 by Blessed William Joseph Chaminade. In choosing this name, these students placed themselves squarely within that living tradition—one that believes small communities, rooted in prayer and mission, can help renew the Church and transform the world.

Their commitment marks a promise to walk together in faith, to support one another, and to live Marianist values through service, prayer, and community. Like the first sodalists more than two centuries ago, this “little group” begins with simple steps—and a big hope—that God will do something extraordinary through their shared “yes.”

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2022

Good to Know

The Annunciation in Color, Symbol, and Faith

The Marian Library invites visitors into a rich and prayerful encounter with one of the most beloved moments in Christian art and devotion: the Annunciation. Two new exhibits—each distinct yet beautifully connected—will be on display through October 23, offering fresh ways to reflect on Mary’s courageous “yes” and the mystery it set into motion.

Blessed Among Women features a collection of modern Annunciation artwork recently gifted to the Marian Library by collector John A. Kohan of the Sacred Art Pilgrim Collection. These contemporary pieces explore the Annunciation through varied styles, colors, and perspectives, showing how artists across time continue to be inspired by Mary’s faith, humility, and trust in God’s plan.

Complementing this collection is Fiat and Faith, on view in the Marian Library Gallery. This exhibit invites viewers to look more closely at the rich symbolism traditionally found in Annunciation scenes—light, lilies, books, gestures, and setting—and to discover how these visual details tell a deeper story of obedience, grace, and divine invitation.

Together, these exhibits offer more than an art experience; they create a space for contemplation, wonder, and renewed appreciation for how faith is expressed through beauty. Visitors are encouraged to linger, reflect, and see the Annunciation not only as a moment in history, but as a living story that continues to speak through art today.

Click here for more information.

Marian Forum – All Invited

All are welcome to attend the 2026 Marian Forum on Wednesday, March 25, in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception on the campus of the University of Dayton (UD). The forum is an academically-minded gathering focused on the Blessed Virgin Mary, incorporating liturgy and creative campus participation.

Can’t make it in person? No problem! It will also be livestreamed so everyone can attend. Save the date! Activities begin at 10 am (EST) with the livestream available here at that time.

This symposium provides a yearly occasion to reflect more deeply about Mary and the wide range of topics related to Mariology. Events include a lecture from University of Dayton Marian certificate student Rev. Thomas-Mary, O.C.D., a Eucharistic liturgy, and a talk from artist Holly Schapker.

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Marianist Encounters Newsletters from the Marianist Family Encounters Project

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #101 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Celebrations of Marianist Heritage

Whether it is called Founders Week, Chaminade Week, Marianist Heritage Week, or—for some—Marianist Heritage Month, every January, Marianist institutions pause to celebrate the humble yet bold beginnings of the Society of Mary. Across schools, parishes, libraries, and ministries, the Marianist Family once again made visible a living charism—one rooted in faith, community, service, and a deep trust in Mary’s accompaniment.

From St. Louis to Honolulu, San Antonio to Nairobi, it’s a time filled with prayer, creativity, remembrance, laughter, and renewed commitment to the mission entrusted to us by Blessed William Joseph Chaminade.

St. John Vianney High School
Chaminade Madonna High School
Chaminade Julienne High School
Central Catholic High School

At Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis, students were surprised when Blessed Fr. Chaminade himself “stopped by” during lunch. His visit launched a campus-wide scavenger hunt, inviting students to discover his teachings and reflect on how they are called today to become the men the world needs. It was a joyful reminder that Marianist heritage is not just remembered—it is actively lived and learned.

Meanwhile, at St. John Vianney High School in St. Louis, Bro. Chicago Schuller led a service for students and faculty featuring relics of Blessed Chaminade. In recalling that Chaminade founded the Society of Mary amid the turmoil of the French Revolution, the community reflected on courage, perseverance, and faith lived courageously in uncertain times.

Fr. Tim Kenney presided at a vibrant Mass celebrating Marianist Heritage Week at Central Catholic High School in San Antonio. “The students were very respectful and engaged, and when four brothers sang the Salve Regina, they received a standing ovation. It was a beautiful experience,” reflected Fr. Tim. He added that during the homily, he invited students to consider a Marianist vocation—a quiet planting of seeds for the future.

At Chaminade-Madonna College Preparatory in Hollywood, FL, Founders Week came alive through Mass, French-inspired meals, dress days honoring Marianist roots, and even a faculty-versus-student kickball game—joyful expressions of community rooted in mission.

In San Juan, Puerto Rico, Fr. Oscar Vasquez participated in a Founders Celebration at Colegio San José. “I had the blessing and privilege of presiding at the Founders Celebration. It was amazing to experience the deep faith of our students. As I listened to the boys sing, it was clear that their favorite song was ‘Santa María del Camino,’ which invites the Blessed Mother to come and accompany them,” said Fr. Oscar. He added that it served as a reminder of the General Chapter’s invitation to “encounter” young people where they are.

That same spirit of accompaniment echoed at Our Lady of Nazareth (OLN) Primary School in Nairobi, Kenya, a Marianist-supported school serving nearly 1,900 children. Students gathered to celebrate Mass, and the joy of the day was beautifully captured as preschool children recited a poem honoring Blessed Chaminade—a reminder that the Marianist mission is alive even in the youngest hearts.

Fr. Sudhir Kujur invited parishioners of  Holy Rosary Parish in San Antonio to participate in a week of remembrance and hope, marking 77 years of Marianist presence there: “This special week is an opportunity to pause, remember, and give thanks… While Holy Rosary is not formally a Marianist parish, the Marianist spirit has profoundly shaped parish life for generations.” Fr. Sudhir reminded the community: “Heritage is not only about history; it is about people whose daily ‘yes’ continues to strengthen the parish family.”

The pastor at Our Lady of the Pillar parish in St. Louis, Fr. Tom French, said “yes” to an invitation from Archbishop Riordan High School in San Francisco. Fr. Tom,  the school’s former president, presided at Mass with nearly 1,200 students. “It was a joy to see a number of faculty members who are still at Riordan, and even more moving to meet former students whom I once taught and who are now teaching at the school themselves. That sense of continuity and shared mission is truly a Marianist gift. It was a grace-filled visit, and I am grateful for the opportunity to return home, even briefly, to a place that shaped me so deeply and remains one of the great blessings of my ministry,” said Fr. Tom.

At Chaminade University of Honolulu, Marianist Heritage took on a vibrant, deeply local expression. The community gathered for the annual Marianist Founders’ Day Mass, honoring the legacies of Father Chaminade, Mother Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon, and Marie Thérèse de Lamourous. New students were joyfully welcomed into the charism through Color Me Marianist—an interactive tie-dye experience introducing the Five Characteristics of Marianist Education, blending creativity with mission. The celebrations also included the beloved annual lei-draping prayer service at the statue of Fr. Chaminade, held with Saint Louis School—a powerful symbol of gratitude, remembrance, and shared heritage.

At St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, Marianist Heritage Month opened with Adoration for Vocations, lifting all those discerning God’s call. The community also gathered for a Marianist Heritage Mass, giving thanks for the mission that continues to shape the university: Rooted in faith, guided by Mary, and united as one community.

At the Marian Library at the University of Dayton, the Marianist Charism took artistic form. Visitors were invited to explore an art installation in St. Mary’s Hall, where each ceramic piece represents a facet of the Marianist vision—faith made tangible through beauty.

Across the country, similar celebrations unfolded at Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School, St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School, Purcell Marian High School,  Gross Catholic High School, and every Marianist school and ministry— each honoring educators, students, and alumni who embody Marianist values in daily life.

Our Lady of Nazareth
Colegio San Jose
Archbishop Riordan High School

Blessed William Joseph Chaminade once wrote: “Ours is a work, a magnificent work. If it is universal, it is because we are missionaries of Mary, who has said to us, ‘Do whatever he tells you.’”

Across continents and cultures, that magnificent work was clearly alive this month of January. Through prayer and play, awards and art, Mass and music, the Marianist Family once again testified that our heritage is not confined to one month—it continues wherever faith is lived in community, guided by Mary, for the sake of the world.

More photos from various celebrations can be found by clicking here.

In The News

Provincial Council Appointed

Superior General of the Society of Mary, Fr. André-Joseph Fétis, announced from Rome the appointments of the three remaining members of the U.S. Provincial Council to be installed later this year.

Bro. Thomas Wendorf — Assistant for Education

Bro. Robert Metzger — Assistant for Temporalities

Fr. Michael Chiuri — Councilor

Each of these brothers brings formidable gifts, skills, knowledge, experience, and devotion to Marianist life. Along with his duties as Assistant Provincial, Fr. Bob Jones will also head the Office of Religious Life.

Many thanks to Fr. Oscar Vasquez (Provincial), Bro. Bernie Ploeger (Assistant Provincial), Fr. Tim Kenney (Assistant for Religious Life), Bro. Jesse O’Neil (Assistant for Education), and Bro. Joe Markel (Assistant for Temporalities). They have provided exemplary leadership to the Province over the last seven-plus years—and will continue to do so for several more months until the new council officially takes the reins at an assembly in Dayton, OH, in late June. Bro. Ed Violet (Provincial designate) and Fr. Bob (Assistant Provincial designate) both served as councilors for the current Provincial Council.

Bro. Thomas Wendorf
Bro. Robert Metzger
Fr. Michael Chiuri

University of Dayton Joins National Network for Synodality

The University of Dayton (UD) is joining a network of 16 Catholic colleges and universities, funded by a $10 million grant, to strengthen “synodality” in the U.S. Catholic Church.

The Lilly Endowment made a $10 million grant to Loyola University Chicago through its Pathways for Tomorrow Initiative, which is designed to help theological schools respond to the most pressing challenges in preparing pastoral leaders for Christian congregations now and into the future.

Catholic colleges and universities across the country have been discerning how to respond to Pope Francis’ call for a Church renewed through listening, dialogue and shared discernment. The Catholic Education Network to Enact and Resource Synodality (CENTERS) will strengthen ministry leadership formation, develop new models of synodal practice, and help animate a more participatory and mission‑focused Church in the United States.

CENTERS will support this work by funding projects at participating institutions, conducting retreats and trainings, convening national assemblies, and endowing a ministry leadership formation program for ministry students.

UD will be involved in each aspect of the network’s work, but especially engaging the UD community and Catholic communities in the region in ministry, leadership education, and formation.

“We look forward to engaging ministry students on our campus and others in our region. Working closely with Xavier University and the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, we will provide educational and faith-formation opportunities that help develop the skills of the next generation of Church leaders in local parishes,” said Kelly Adamson, senior director of UD Campus Ministry.

St. Mary’s University Incentivizes STEM Teachers

St. Mary’s University was awarded a National Science Foundation (NSF) grant for the education of future STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) teachers. The NSF Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program at St. Mary’s University is seeking students to pursue careers in STEM teaching, with a focus on environmental themes. Students are invited to consider careers in STEM teaching and to apply for these scholarships.

​The proposed program plans include Training and Professional Development activities, including a watershed-based STEM curriculum teacher-training course developed by the San Antonio River Authority.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Building Community with Mary

You are invited to the 2026 Assembly of the Marianist Lay Community of North America (MLC-NA). It is scheduled from July 23 to July 26 in Louisville, KY. Find more details below.

Written by MLC-NA

As Marianists, we are community builders. We build community everywhere we go because of Mary, for Mary, and in a way that is informed by Mary. Some of the communities we build up are within the three branches of the Marianist Family, as well as its many ministries and educational institutions.

But Marianists are also engaged in building community in every other area of life as well: from family life to civil society, from the business world to the margins of society. “Building Community with Mary” is therefore a theme that will help us encounter Mary on a deeper level, while also developing our means of carrying out our community-building efforts in the Church and world.

The keynote speaker will be: Prof. Natalia Imperatori-Lee, PhD. She is a theologian and author whose work explores how the stories we tell about the Church shape its future. A lifelong Catholic and professor at Fordham University in New York, she writes and speaks widely on women in the Church, community life, Mary, and the role of faith in today’s world. Her books, including Cuéntame: Narrative in the Ecclesial Present and Women and the Church, invite readers to see the Church through the lens of lived experience and storytelling. Natalia will be joining us from the Bronx, NYC, where she lives with her husband and two children.

Registration Information: https://www.mlcna.org/assembly/registration

Marianist Moments

Do You Need Rest and Rejuvenation?

Sometimes, you just need to exhale the stale and breathe in the beauty of a refresh. Whether slugging through the doldrums of winter, reeling from busy routines, or just looking forward to a spring or summer renewal, our Marianist retreat centers offer a variety of opportunities for rejuvenation.

The Marianist Family Retreat Center in Cape May, NJ, has its 2026 retreat calendar available with countless options that cater to everyone from teens, young adults, families, the aging, and everyone in between. Also, week-long family retreats begin in June and last through mid-August.

If you desire rest, silence, and deeper listening this summer, consider joining In the Stillness, a week-long silent retreat for women and men religious, offered July 17–24, at the Marianist Retreat and Conference Center (MRCC) in Eureka, MO. This retreat is not about doing more, but about allowing God to restore strength, clarity, and peace. MRCC also has a variety of offerings, from personal reflection days to marriage enrichment and more.

Sometimes, you may not have time for a weekend retreat but need a day away. The Bergamo Center for Lifelong Learning in Dayton, OH, offers a certain day each month for personal retreats and can include a Spiritual Director if you choose. The Center welcomes people of all faiths to experience spiritual growth through its educational and ecumenical programs.

When God gently invites us to pause—to rest, to listen, and to be renewed—explore retreat opportunities at one of our Marianist centers.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2022

Good to Know

United in Faith and Community

National Catholic Schools Week (CSW) was held from Jan. 25 to Jan. 31, 2026, with the national theme being “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community.” Schools celebrated with various activities, Masses, and events highlighting the value of Catholic education, often with daily themes focusing on faith, community, students, nation, vocations, staff, and family.

While faith is the binding element in Catholic schools, the Church reiterates that parents are the first teachers of their children. Holding this tenet, Catholic school communities expand beyond the walls of school buildings to envelop the family as an integral part of the school community. Together, teachers, administrators, staff, students and parents fuel the light of faith by integrating culture with faith and faith with living.

Encounters Follow-Up Conversation

The Marianist Family Encounters Project continues its conversation series.

The last scheduled Zoom in the series is set for Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, 5-5:45 pm ET, 4-4:45 pm CT, 3-3:45 pm MT, 2-2:45 pm PT, 11-11:45 am HT.

It is also open to Ministry Leads of Marianist Encounters at our Marianist Schools and our Marianist Religious. The Zoom meeting is expected to last for 45 minutes. For more information, please write to [email protected]

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #100 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Tis the Season for Generosity – Faith in Action

St. John Vianney pajama bake sale
Colegio San José hospital visit
Chaminade Madonna blood drive
Chaminade College Preparatory School diaper drive

As we celebrate the greatest gift, the “reason for the season,” we recall Blessed William Joseph Chaminade’s words: “Faith must be animated by charity. Faith should not only be a light in the mind, but in the heart as well.”

“Mary’s selfless ‘yes,’ like the star of Bethlehem, is our guiding light. As Marianists, we seek to mirror her unwavering faith and her spirit of service,” said Fr. Oscar Vasquez, Provincial of the Marianist Province of the United States.

The Holy Mother’s humble generosity echoed through our Marianist schools this Advent, turning faith into action, proving that generosity is more than a season—it’s a way of life.

At St. John Vianney High School in St. Louis, MO, an almost two-week Christmas Countdown mixed fun with charity—pajama day, bake sales, a cocoa bar, and Santa visit raised funds for Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. The wrestling team swapped mats for sandwiches for St. Patrick Center, and its annual Advent Blood Drive collected 50 units.

In Puerto Rico, Colegio San José class of 2031 students brought joy to patients at the island’s only children’s hospital, which offers extended stays for youth under the custody of the Department of Family. “It was a valuable experience that fostered service, empathy, and commitment,” shared the school’s social media. Seniors Andrés Fernandez (President of the Council) and Daniel Torres (President of the National Honor Society) had also organized a Casual Day and tulip sale. They were able to recently deliver more than $9,000 from their efforts to the local Susan G. Komen office.

Purcell Marian High School in Cincinnati, OH, launched Spread the Warmth, trading free concession treats for coats and gloves at any home game in December. All donations are given to My Kidz – a non-profit founded by 1973 Marian alum Dr. Carolyn Cousins-Bates.

A Canstruction Contest at St. Anthony School on Maui encouraged an increase in canned food donations and proved to be a fun competition as classes teamed up to build structures out of the items.

At Chaminade Madonna College Preparatory in Hollywood, FL, the Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) club partnered with OneBlood to host a school blood drive, collecting 43 units of blood.

Members of the National Honor Society at Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis, MO, held a diaper drive collecting nearly 230 packages of diapers for the St. Louis Area Diaper Bank.

All those mentions are just a few highlights of the generosity of Marianist ministries and the Marianist Family this season.

“For Marianists, charity isn’t optional—it’s central to our mission,” said Fr. Oscar. “Seeing youth actively engage in and lead these efforts is a testament to our charism. Their passion and energy are a symbol of hope for us all, one I hope spreads across communities throughout the new year.”

Colegio San José
St. Anthony School
St. John Vianney blood drive
Colegio San José hospital visit

In The News

New Assistant Provincial Appointed

Superior General of the Society of Mary Fr. André-Joseph Fétis announced from Rome that Fr. Robert Jones has been appointed as the next U.S. Assistant Provincial for a five-year term beginning July 1, 2026.

Bro. Bernard Ploeger, having served a five-year term and a three-year extension, has fulfilled the time allowed in this role, and we thank him for his service.

Jones was noted for his steady prayer life, compassionate presence, his ability to listen well, and collaborate effectively across diverse experiences within the Province. His creativity, pastoral experience, and the trust he inspires in community were also affirmed. Fr. Bob’s spiritual depth, leadership qualities, and collaborative spirit will serve the Province well.

Originally from Indiana, he holds a degree in mathematics from University of Dayton and a master’s degree in Pastoral Ministry from Boston College. He attended the Marianist International Seminary in Rome and was ordained in 2015. He has served as a high school math teacher, chaplain and campus minister, hospital chaplain and spiritual director, as well as coordinating pilgrimages to Camino de Santiago. Click here to read more and hear from Fr. Bob.

Discernment now continues for the selection of the remaining Provincial Council members. We ask you to keep this process and those who will be called to leadership in your prayers.

Every Time a Bell Rings

The University of Dayton (UD) welcomed 1,200 children from Dayton Public Schools for the 62nd Christmas on Campus, an evening George Bailey himself might have called a holiday miracle.

This year’s celebration, with the theme “It’s a Wonderful Christmas on Campus: Every Time a Bell Rings, a Flyer Gets Its Wings,” offered a winter wonderland with Santa, a live Nativity, model train displays, treats, and more. The elementary school students were paired with a UD undergraduate to explore the event together — more than 1,000 students happily volunteered. That’s in addition to the committee members and students who organized holiday games and crafts, handed out treats and cocoa, decorated, organized incoming school buses and children, and so much more. It’s a full community of activity that is widely regarded as one of the largest, student-run, single-day volunteer events in the nation.

“Christmas on Campus captures the best of UD — community, joy, and showing up for one another,” said co-chairs Gianna Carcelli and Catie Dusenberry. “We love seeing campus light up, not just with decorations, but with thousands of people coming together to make the night magical for our students and our Dayton families. It’s a reminder that every act of kindness helps someone ‘get their wings.’”

The event was free and open to the public and offered Mass at the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception following the Christmas festivities. Click here to see more pictures compliments of photographer Sylvia Stahl.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Brushstrokes of Devotion

Eighth-grade students in the Elements of Art class at Chaminade College Preparatory in Chatsworth, CA, embarked on a meaningful artistic journey by creating a collaborative mural of the Virgin Mary. Inspired by a digital design from Thy Arty Studio, the project was guided by their visual arts teacher, Ana Madriaga, as part of a Respect for Life lesson. This lesson highlighted Mary’s profound role in the Catholic faith and her compassion for all.

Each student contributed by painting an individual section of the mural in acrylics, infusing their unique style and creativity into the work. When assembled, these pieces formed a harmonious composition, rich with vibrant colors, varied textures, and distinctive styles of each student. Through this shared creative endeavor, the students not only honored Mary’s image but also reflected on her example of love and grace.

The completed mural was proudly unveiled to the Chaminade College Preparatory community during the celebration of the Immaculate Conception Mass on Dec. 8, serving as a testament to faith, artistry, and collaboration.

Marianist Moments

Seeking Shelter: Beyond the Stable

The Marian Library has a new take on its annual Nativities exhibit. This year’s display explores how artists around the world imagine Jesus’ birthplace. “Seeking Shelter: Beyond the Stable” runs through Jan. 16, 2026, in the Roesch Library, located on the University of Dayton campus. Discover a variety of shelters in this year’s selection of Nativity sets from the Marian Library Crèche Collection and the Marian Library’s international collection. All ages are welcome to play along with a seek-and-find activity and make a Christmas ornament.

“Artists imagine the Holy Family’s shelter in many ways,” said Bridget Retzloff, assistant professor and visual resources librarian at the Marian Library. “Some scenes show a stable. Others show a cave or ancient ruins. Many artists use the architecture of their own communities. Some choose unexpected materials, like pottery or coconut shells. Each Nativity gives us a new way to see this moment and understand how people around the world tell the story.”

Click here for more information, including hours and parking.

Click here for more information on the Crèche Collection, which began in 1984 and now includes more than 3,600 Nativity sets. The Marian Library is an international research destination devoted to Mary, mother of Jesus, that also contains books, periodicals, artworks, and other artifacts.

“Life is Theater,” by Angela Tripi. 1992. Resin.
“New Creation,” by an unknown Polish artist or maker. Birchwood and straw.
“French Cave Nativity Scene,” by monastic French nuns. Circa late 1800s. Wood, paper, and glass.
“Bamboo Nativity,” by an unknown Filipino artist or maker. Bamboo.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Good to Know

Have a Prayer Intention?

Prayer intentions are collected each month by the Care and Prayer Team of the Marianist Lay Community of North America (MLC-NA)  through personal reach-outs and a Google form on its website.

If you have a prayer intention you’d like to submit,  click here or go to  https://www.mlcna.org/with-mary-we-pray.

What is MLC-NA’s Care and Prayer Team? It’s a group of Lay Marianists dedicated to creating an inclusive spirit among the lay branch. This team reaches out to individuals each month to celebrate milestones, relay information, and gather prayer intentions. They then pray for each of those intentions throughout the month leading up to the prayer service.

If you’re interested in joining this team, contact Allie at [email protected].

Experience Erma From Home

The Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop at University of Dayton (UD) sold out quickly, but you can still participate. Erma Home Schooling brings the heart and humor of the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop to your computer screen. Participants can enjoy livestreams of all five keynote talks and four exclusive humor-writing workshops, thoughtfully designed for the virtual experience. The workshop, set for March 26-28, 2026, marks its 25th anniversary. Click here to learn more and register.

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Purcell Marian High School (OH) – Principal

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #99 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Attitude of Gratitude

Throughout the month of November, the Marianist Province of the United States ran a social media campaign called Thankful Thursdays. The short videos highlighted members of our Marianist Family and things for which they are grateful. Did you know an attitude of gratitude has the ability to boost your well-being? Click here for an article from Harvard Medical School and click here for a more in-depth study from the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Here are some tips to help you practice gratitude:

  • Keep a gratitude journal: Write down one to two things you are grateful for each day.
  • Focus on the small things: Don’t feel pressured to be constantly positive, but make a point to acknowledge small wins.
  • Connect with others: Expressing thanks to people in your life can improve your relationships.
  • Prioritize self-care: Remember that taking time for activities you enjoy is essential.

Click the video below as Provincial Fr. Oscar Vasquez expresses his gratitude to our ministries, his fellow brothers in the Society of Mary, everyone in the Marianist Family, and those who assist in our Marianist mission and spreading the charism.

In The News

New Provincial Appointed

Bro. Edward Violett

Superior General of the Society of Mary Fr. André-Joseph Fétis announced from Rome that Bro. Edward Violett has been appointed as the next U.S. Provincial for a five-year term beginning July 1, 2026.

Fr. Oscar Vasquez, having served a five-year term and a three-year extension, has fulfilled the allotted time as leader of the Province. Violett was chosen following a formal consultation process involving the brothers and priests of the Marianist Province of the United States, to which the General Council gave its unanimous support.

Bro. Ed was cited for his spiritual depth, broad leadership experience, and ability to address complex challenges. His international perspective, strategic vision, and experience in educational and Marianist administration were also highlighted as key strengths. He is currently the Vice President of the Marianist Center of Hawaii and has led many projects, including liaising with leadership at both Chaminade University and St. Louis School to address road repair, utilities, landscaping, and the expansion of the Mystical Rose Oratory pavilion.

“Although we will miss him in our Marianist community and at the Marianist Center of Hawaii, with his many organizational and leadership skills, we can only fully support him in this new call to service.  We pledge to him our prayers and fraternal best wishes,” said Chaminade University Rector & Vice President for Mission Fr. Marty Solma.

Born in Agana, Guam, and raised in El Paso, TX, Violett entered the Society of Mary in 1982. He holds a bachelor’s in financial management from St. Mary’s University in San Antonio, TX, a master’s in administration from the University of Notre Dame and a doctorate in social policy and administration from the London School of Economics. He served as General Counsel of the Marianists in Rome before joining Our Lady of the Lake College in 2015. His service also includes Assistant for Temporalities on the General Council of the Society of Mary in Rome, Director of the Graduate International Relations Program at St. Mary’s University, service in what is now the Marianist Region of India, and, most recently, Provost at Franciscan University in Baton Rouge.

Marianist Student Asks Pope About AI

Micah Alcisto, a senior at Marianist-sponsored Saint Louis School in Honolulu, was one of just a few youth chosen to participate in a digital conversation with Pope Leo XIV at the National Catholic Youth Conference held earlier this month. He asked the Pope his thoughts on artificial intelligence. Click here to view the exchange and hear Pope Leo’s response.

Around 15,000 young people from all over the country attended the conference, including members from our Cape May Marianist Family Retreat Center. It was a weekend of presentations, workshops, prayer, and mutual sharing. Bros. Mark Motz, Jack Somerville, Leno Ceballos, and Sr. Emily Sandoval interacted with youth and shared what it means to be a Marianist at a booth at the conference held in Indianapolis, IN.

Panel members chosen to participate in conversation with Pope Leo
Micah Alcisto asking Pope Leo XIV about AI
Members of Cape May Marianist Family Retreat Center
Bro. Leno Ceballos, Sr. Emily Sandoval, and Bro. Jack Somerville at NCYC

Chaminade University of Honolulu Invited to Rome

President of Chaminade University of Honolulu (CUH), Lynn Babington, was invited to represent the university and the United States at the International Federation of Catholic Universities Women Leadership Program in Rome.

The program offers a unique opportunity to nurture and strengthen a new generation of women leaders who can combine academic excellence with Catholic values, guiding institutions with confidence, integrity, and boldness. It featured distinguished speakers from around the world and a meet and greet with Pope Leo XIV.

Click here to learn more about it from Vatican City and read the speech given by the President of the Governorate, Sr. Raffaella Petrini.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Faith, Football, and Forever #20: NFL Marianist Alumnus Honored

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart,” Kyren Williams states on his Instagram profile.

The Los Angeles Rams running back is rooted in faith that was fortified by his Marianist education at St. John Vianney High School in St. Louis, MO. His alma mater recently honored his hard work and dedication in a ceremony to retire his football jersey #20.

During the jersey retirement ceremony, Kyren was joined by Vianney President Ian Mulligan, Athletic Director Mike Potsou, and Head Football Coach Chris Starkey along with his family, friends, and teammates in the stands.

A member of the Class of 2019, Kyren has exemplified excellence both on and off the field. His professional accomplishments in the National Football League reflect not only exceptional athletic ability, but also a steadfast commitment to faith, integrity, and perseverance. Throughout his journey, Kyren has remained grounded in his relationship with God. Last year the Rams nominated him for the Walter Payton Man of the Year Award. The nomination celebrated Kyren’s commitment to his community off the field as well as his contributions on the field.

At Vianney, Kyren was a member of National Honor Society for demonstrating scholarship, character, leadership, and service. He played baseball and basketball as well as football. Kyren was named St. Louis Metro Area Offensive Player of the Year and First-Team All-State, helping the Griffins capture the Class 5 Football State Championship in 2016 and 2018. After graduating from Vianney, Kyren went on to play for the University of Notre Dame, where he became one of the program’s top running backs before being drafted by the LA Rams in 2022.

Kyran’s story is one marked by resilience, discipline, and an unyielding trust in Divine Providence. He has consistently used his platform as a professional athlete to express his Christian faith, serving as a role model for young people in the Church and the community.

Marianist Moments

Finding Light and Transforming Hearts

“With the beautiful mountains of Puerto Rico serving as our Church and a glorious sunset our light, 10th-grade members of Juventud Marianista (Marianist Youth) celebrated the Mass of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica,” shared Fr. Dave McGuigan. “We reflected on St. Paul’s message that God is building us up on the foundation of Jesus Christ to share God’s love wherever we go. As night fell, we continued to celebrate the light that shines in the darkness.”

That light was felt deeply by the Colegio San José students throughout the retreat. “I feel blessed I had this experience. I learned about my peers and openly heard their different perspectives about life. It’s hard to explain how well I felt in those three days, where I enjoyed every moment. In all honesty, it was a spectacular and unforgettable experience,” recounted Diego, a 10th-grade participant.

Juventud Marianista is a ministry for students in grades six through twelve to promote spiritual growth through youth-oriented activities, including an annual weekend retreat for each grade level. It is led by a group of eleventh and twelfth-grade students who serve as retreat moderators called “Equipistas.”

In early November this year, tenth graders journeyed to the school’s retreat house, Casa Marianista Padre Vicente, located in the mountainous region of the island. “We did several dynamic activities—some were fun, and others allowed us to express our feelings and be ourselves. This built strong trust among us, making us feel like a family. I spent time with classmates I hadn’t spoken to before and was surprised how much I could relate to them,” explained Adrián, one of 18 participants.

His greatest lesson? “Not to doubt God because He is always going to guide me through life. I also learned that sometimes we judge our peers, but if we take the time to get to know them, we realize we have much in common.”

Moments like these remind us that faith is not just taught—it is lived. These experiences shape young hearts to lead with love and courage.

Juventud Marianista meets every Monday to grow spiritually, pray, learn about who they are, and what they can do for others. Let us continue to create spaces where young people encounter God and grow together.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Unknown Date
2023

Fr. José Ramirez, 88, died on Nov. 17, 2025, in San Antonio, TX, with 69 years of religious profession.

Click here for the prayer card.

Click here to see pictures of Fr. José through the years.

Once his obituary is completed, you will find it here.

Good to Know

More Than Money: Graduates of Catholic Colleges Find Purpose

A national study, the Holistic Impact Report (HIR), found that graduates of Catholic colleges lead in purpose and belonging and report higher levels of mental health, financial stability, and dialogue across differences.

The Center for Catholic Studies at St. Mary’s University conducted the study in partnership with YouGov, a globally recognized leader in social research. With two years of data now analyzed, the study finds Catholic university graduates outpace their peers in measures of meaning, volunteering, and ethical decision-making.

“When education is oriented toward meaning, service, and ethics, graduates are not merely preparing for jobs; they are preparing for life,” Jason King, Ph.D., Beirne Director and Chair of the Center for Catholic Studies at St. Mary’s University. “This study is an indication of the strength of the St. Mary’s University educational experience, helping to mold graduates with resilience, a sense of purpose, and a commitment to community that the world urgently needs,” said Winston Erevelles, Ph.D., St. Mary’s President.

Educating the “whole person” is integral to a Marianist education, as can be seen in the following five core Characteristics of a Marianist Education.

25 Years of Laughter and Learning

Widely known as “a writer’s Woodstock,” the Erma Bombeck Writers’ Workshop at University of Dayton (UD) will once again honor the legacy of Erma Bombeck. The great humorist and columnist graduated with a degree in English from UD in 1949. The workshop, set for March 26-28, 2026, marks its 25th anniversary this year and will feature keynote speakers Kelly Corrigan, Ann Garvin, Sona Movsesian, Steven Rowley and John Searles — writers whose work spans memoir, fiction, humor, and media. Registration just opened earlier this month and was quickly sold out. Click here for more details, and click here if you’d like to be put on the “Wait List.”

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Chaminade Julienne High School (OH) – President

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #98 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

“The Hunk” Inspires a Movement in a Most Marianist Way

Chris “The Hunk” Armitage attends Marianist-sponsored St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School in St. Louis, MO. That may not seem like an extraordinary feat in itself, but it required resolve and the Marianist spirit of adaptability to achieve.

What many take for granted — simply living and learning — was a hard-fought journey for Chris. While still in the womb, it was detected that he had underdeveloped lungs, heart, and brain conditions. Steadfast in their Catholic faith, his parents, LeeAnn and Tony Armitage, refused to consider suggestions of terminating the pregnancy.

Chris was born with Down syndrome. At five weeks, he had shunt surgery to drain fluid from his brain. At five months, he had a complex heart surgery. The first four years of his life were solely about survival. Chris proved to be a warrior, overcoming the odds, and was soon ready for school – but was school ready for him?

“I just assumed Chris could go to our parish grade school with his older sister. I wanted my child in his community and to be loved for who he is,” recalled LeeAnn. However, the small suburban Catholic school, with around 375 students from PK to 8th grade, simply lacked the resources at the time to accommodate Chris in the classroom beyond preschool. And so, he was homeschooled. That is, until the community got wind of it, and “the Holy Spirit took over” according to his parents.

The FIRE Foundation in Kansas City arranged for the Armitages, parish leadership, and a community support network to visit one of its schools, which incorporated a successful model for inclusive education.

Their parish pastor concluded, “It was better to try and fail, than to not try at all.” With that blessing, the Armitage family founded the non-profit One Classroom, which provides a pathway for children with intellectual and developmental delays to attain a Catholic education. Tony’s boss, St. Louis philanthropist and Chaminade College Preparatory alumnus Fred Brown, became One Classroom’s first board member and provided the financial backing to get the ball rolling.

After many years of raising funds for paraprofessionals, exploring Catholic resources, and offering interactive training sessions, One Classroom currently works with more than 110 students at 28 partner schools in the Archdiocese of St. Louis, including the Marianist parish of Our Lady of the Pillar and St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School. After all, part of the Marianist Charism is “fostering a spirit of inclusion and adaptation.”

“Our school has always been about raising each other up. All of us face challenges of some type, and Chris is no different. It’s about forming young men with a heart for others and bringing Christ into the lives of all young people,” explained St. Mary’s President Mike England.

Chris, now in his sophomore year, is learning at his own pace but has a peer mentor, a lunch group, and is surrounded by other students in general education classrooms – which provides valuable life lessons for all. “Chris’s presence has been a blessing to our community, teaching our young men that it’s not just about achievement, it’s about empathy,” said England.

LeeAnn added, “Chris is so excited for school each day that he stands by the door with his backpack a half hour before we need to leave. We’ve seen major changes in his social skills, spiritual development, and ability to learn.”
“We were out to dinner recently, and this young man started yelling, ‘Chris! Chris!’ He ran over and gave Chris a fist pump, then started talking to him. Turns out, he is one of Chris’s classmates at St. Mary’s,” said Tony. “There is genuine love from his peers.”

It’s a similar situation for Elizabeth Barnes at Our Lady of the Pillar – you can witness the delight captured in the smiles of her and her classmates in the pictures below.

Her parents, Bill and Darby, are parishioners of Our Lady of the Pillar and also serve on the board of directors for One Classroom. In fact, a large majority of the board has a Marianist connection, having either attended St. John Vianney High School, Chaminade College Preparatory, or having a child who attends a Marianist-sponsored school.

“As Marianists, our focus is education, not just for job skills but life skills, educating the whole person. The core characteristics of a Marianist education include family spirit – fostering a community where each person is accepted with love and respect, promoting a spirit of collaboration and compassion. The way Chris and his family pioneered for adaptation and change resonates, and to see our alums step in to support and serve is a testament that a Marianist education truly extends beyond the classroom,” said Assistant for Education Bro. Jesse O’Neill of The Marianist Province of the United States.

One Classroom offers resources for families, clergy, and educators and is happy to consult with anyone interested in working toward similar initiatives in their community. Visit their website to learn more.

Click here to read more from Mike England on how the experience has opened his eyes and his heart.

Elizabeth with her brothers
Elizabeth with her classmates
Elizabeth with her classmates
Elizabeth with her classmates

In The News

Nursing Students Credit Marianist Mission for Medical Advantage

Paige Severson

St. Mary’s University marked a milestone as it welcomed 33 students into its new nursing program. It’s a four-year curriculum to earn a Bachelor’s of Nursing degree.

The program’s founding director, Donna Badowski, states that the program focuses on implementing the school’s Marianist ideals. “We empower our students to become leaders who have a strong foundation in faith,” said Badowski.

Paige Severson, the first student to officially enter the program, said she chose St. Mary’s for its holistic approach. “Part of the Marianist Mission is that they prepare us for diverse environments,” said Severson. “They have us take philosophy, theology, and a language course because you’re not just healing the body. You’re also healing the minds and spirits of people, because they’re not just patients – they’re humans.”

The program garnered news coverage in San Antonio. Click here to view the story.

UD Researchers Awarded Grant to Explore Lung Cancer

The National Institutes of Health awarded nearly half a million dollars to two University of Dayton (UD) researchers who are exploring strategies for the detection and potential treatment of non-small cell lung cancer.

The project, led by Shawn Swavey, professor of chemistry, and Kristen Krupa, chair of UD’s department of chemical and materials engineering, will focus on developing fluorescent imaging tools to better understand how stress inside cancer cells can be used to detect and potentially destroy tumors.

The duo will test a family of compounds that can be adapted to act as real-time sensors of cancer cell stress, carrying chemotherapy drugs directly to tumor cells and serving as light-activated agents that trigger cancer cell death.

The grant will include four undergraduate students per year who will assist with the creation of these probes, as well as test their effectiveness in lung cancer cells. “Our goal is not only to advance science but also to train the next generation of researchers who will continue this important work,” said Krupa.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Marianist World Day of Prayer

October 12, the Feast of Our Lady of the Pillar, marked the 41st annual World Day of Marianist Prayer. Marianists worldwide offered prayers of gratitude to Mary for her constant presence and asked that she may rekindle the hope of new vocations in the Marianist Family. Join us as we ask the Lord to hear our prayers.

Every year, a Marian Shrine with a Marianist presence is chosen for a special celebration. This year, Marianists gathered spiritually in prayer at the Basilica of Santa Maria Maggiore in Rome, where Mary is honored as the “Salus Populi Romani.” The World Day of Marianist Prayer originated in the 1970s when Lay Marianists in St. Louis, MO, began gathering in prayer on the Sunday nearest the Feast of Our Lady of the Pillar. In 1981, Fr. Quentin Hakenewerth expanded the annual gathering to the worldwide Marianist Family. Since then, a specific Marian shrine has been designated each year to give focus to the prayer intentions.

Marianist Moments

Marianist Schools Unite

They compete on the courts and on the fields, but in faith and spirit, they are united. Every year, faculty and staff at the three Marianist-sponsored high schools in St. Louis, MO, put aside any sports or enrollment rivalries and come together to pray.

Chaminade College Preparatory, St. John Vianney High School, and St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School take turns hosting the collaboration, with the latter hosting this year. Povincial Fr. Oscar Vasquez celebrated the Mass, reminding everyone of the mission that inspires us all and recognizing Mary as a source of inspiration.

United in the Marianist Charism and dedication to upholding the characteristics of Marianist education, the annual Mass also provides an opportunity for collaboration among educators. Seen in the picture with Fr. Oscar Vasquez and Fr. Sean Downing, from left to right, are the presidents of all three schools: Ian Mulligan of Vianney, Todd Guidry of Chaminade, and Mike England of St. Mary’s.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Good to Know

L-R: Bro. Stan Zubek, Bro. Esteban Reyes, Bro. Richard Schrader

Marianists Help with Monarch Migration

At the Marianist Family Retreat Center (MFRC) in Cape May, NJ, they practice the belief that caring for the environment is part of the Marianist Mission. Brothers Stan Zubek, Richard Schrader, and Esteban Reyes initiated a special project to support the remarkable migration of monarch butterflies.

The brothers joined the University of Kansas’ Monarch Tagging Program, which helps monitor the long journey of monarchs to Mexico—gathering vital data about their migratory routes, survival, and habitat needs. Earlier this year, they tagged 25 butterflies at MFRC to track their movements.

They planted flowers that the winged wonders love—from vibrant Mexican sunflower, to fragrant milkweed, and yellow cosmos. Curious about their efforts? Click here for their Friendly Garden YouTube channel and subscribe.

Recycling Efforts Awarded Support

The University of Dayton Hanley Sustainability Institute is working to improve campus waste and recycling operations through student-led educational initiatives. It was awarded a $70,000 grant from the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency to help in these efforts.

The funding will help provide infrastructure and equipment to meet institutional goals of reducing campus waste by standardizing trash and recycling bins across UD, along with detailed signage to help users properly separate items. Click here to read the full story.

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Marianist Province of the United States  (MO) – Technology, Digital Asset, and Data Specialist

Chaminade Julienne High School (OH) – President

University of Dayton (OH) – Asst. Director of Marianist Strategies

Archbishop Moeller High School (OH) – Campus Minister

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #97 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.

Be Bold in Faith: Blessed Chaminade’s Vision Lights the Way

Larry Keller (far right) at the beatification in Rome 2000
Marianists in Rome wearing the Chaminade scarf 2000
Chaminade College Prep, St. Louis, students at beatification in Rome 2000

Twenty-five years ago, on September 3, 2000, Pope John Paul II declared William Joseph Chaminade “Blessed,” calling him a model for the Church and a beacon for youth. Among the thousands gathered in St. Peter’s Square that day were students, faculty, parents, religious, and lay members from Marianist schools and ministries worldwide.

Larry Keller, who now works in the U.S. Province Office of Sponsorship, attended the beatification with a group from St. John Vianney High School, where he was then principal. He recalls the profound sense of unity: “We were given scarves with the Marianist logo. Though we spoke many languages, that scarf identified us as Marianists. It was a moment of deep connection and joy.”

“The Marianist Charism is a true gift to our world and our Church,” reflects Provincial Fr. Oscar Vasquez. “Blessed Chaminade’s dream—to bring people together in faith and mission—remains more relevant than ever. I’m thankful our ministries continue to live that vision.”

The beatification anniversary is not just a moment of remembrance—it’s a call to action. John Paul II reminded us that one of Chaminade’s greatest gifts was his focus on youth: “Young people need both teachers and witnesses.”

That vision is alive and thriving today in Marianist school classrooms, chapels, and lay communities. From Dayton, OH, to Honolulu, HI, from Dublin, Ireland, to Puebla, Mexico, and from San Antonio, TX, to St. Louis, MO, Marianist communities marked the 25th anniversary with prayer services, Masses, exhibits, and joyful gatherings. Social media lit up with Chaminade quotes, photos from that day in Rome, and reflections on his enduring impact that can be seen in the Marian Library “Forever Marianist” exhibit.

“I pray daily for the canonization of Father Chaminade,” Keller shares. “I invite students and educators to do the same—and to respond to his call to bring others to Christ. My hope is that we continue to form Marianist educators who reach students’ hearts, not just their minds.”

Chaminade College Preparatory in West Hills, CA, stated on its social media that “With this year’s CME (Characteristics of Marianist Education) focus on Formation in Faith, we reflect on our call to be ‘other Chaminades’— people rooted in faith, shaped by Mary, and sent forth to bring Christ’s love to the world.”

That sentiment echoes throughout the Marianist community. “Our mission is to form young men in the Marianist tradition—faithful, adaptable, and devoted to building communities of love and service,” said an Archbishop Moeller High School representative.

So, as we mark the milestone with gratitude, let us also have a renewed purpose—to educate, serve, and witness Christ’s love in the Marianist spirit. Click here to see more pictures of gatherings and social media posts from around the Province.

To Young People:

You are the heart of Chaminade’s vision.

Get involved. Join campus ministry. Experience a retreat. Serve your community. Pray for vocations. Be bold in faith.

Let us unite as a Marianist family to honor Chaminade’s spirit and continue his mission. #MarianistFamily

St. Mary's University Prayer Service
Marianist Community in Puebla, Mexico
St. Laurence College LIFE students, Dublin, Ireland
Marianist Educational Associates at Chaminade University of Honolulu

In The News

Chaminade University Announces New Board of Regents Members

Chaminade University of Honolulu has appointed two respected Hawai’i business leaders to its Board of Regents, strengthening its mission-driven leadership as it celebrates its 70th year of educating students. The two new members are David Oyadomari and Kristine Stebbins.

Oyadomari is the founder and managing director of Ekklesia Capital, an innovation and strategy firm that supports small business growth. He serves on Chaminade’s School of Business and Communication advisory board and actively participates in community service, including work with the Hoea Foundation and Kakaako Christian Fellowship.

Stebbins is the Senior Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Bank of Hawaii, with nearly three decades of experience in digital marketing, brand strategy, and customer engagement. She has been a longtime supporter of the University and is a dedicated community advocate, mentoring local entrepreneurs and serving on the board of the Girl Scouts and other initiatives.

Chaminade University President Lynn Babington said, “Each is dedicated to the service-focused mission of Chaminade University, and each brings extensive experience as business and community leaders.”

Marian Library Receives Gift of Art & History

West Virginia researcher John Shaffer has donated his collection of works by the Italian artist Ezio Anichini to the Marian Library. In 2022, he loaned his artwork to the University of Dayton for a major exhibit.

Shaffer, who retired in 2017 as director of arts programming at the State University of New York at Oswego, began building his collection after seeing illustrations the artist had done for Dante’s Divine Comedy. When he discovered that the Marian Library had one of just a few copies in the world of a book featuring Anichini’s work, he reached out for more information. So began a collaboration that resulted in the exhibit A Vision of Art and Faith: The Litany of Loreto and the Work of Ezio Anichini (1886-1948). 

The John Shaffer Collection on the Works of Ezio Anichini, 1886-1948, which contains more than 250 items, can be viewed at the Marian Library (appointments are preferred). Can’t make it to the Marian Library to see the artwork in person? Selected items in the collection have been digitized and are now available for browsing in eCommons, the University’s institutional repository. Click here to read more.

Congratulations, Fr. Jim Heft!

Fr. Jim Heft has been honored as the 2025 Marianist Award recipient. Established in 1950, the Marianist Award was originally presented to scholars who made outstanding contributions to Mariology in America. In 1967, the concept for the award was broadened to honor individuals who made outstanding contributions to humanity.

In 1986, Fr. Jim Heft, then provost at the University of Dayton, and Bro. Raymond Fitz, then president of UD, redesigned the award to honor a Roman Catholic whose work has made a major contribution to intellectual life.

Now, 39 years later, Fr. Jim joins quite a distinguished group of scholars /theologians as he was bestowed the award.

Marianist Ministries in Action

New Year, New Look – Continued Commitment

Nearly 200 students gathered in the newly renovated Immaculate Conception Chapel at Chaminade College Preparatory (CCP), St. Louis, to celebrate the first Marianist Life Community (MLC) Friday Mass of the year that is open to all students. They then bonded over some kolaches before classes started at 8 a.m.

CCP’s MLC is a program for all sixth through 12th-grade students at the school. It is designed to build communities centered on faith and shared values through community building, servant leadership, compassion, and integrity. It provides spiritual growth opportunities and fosters a sense of belonging and purpose, preparing students to become compassionate community leaders.

Fr. Sean Downing blessed students as they prepared not just for the challenges of high school but for a lifetime of purpose, guiding them to become the men the world needs them to be.

Learn More About Faith Formation

Marianist Moments

Spirituality as an Asset in Leadership Development

By Dr. Jessica González Uhlig, Catholic Administrator and Educator at St. Mary’s University

In today’s fast-paced and often fragmented world, leadership development programs tend to prioritize competencies like strategic thinking, communication, and data-driven decision-making. While these are undoubtedly important, they are incomplete without grounding in a deeper sense of purpose and ethical direction. With more than 20 years of experience in Marianist education and formation, I have come to believe that spirituality is not only a vital support to leadership—it is a powerful asset.

In Marianist circles, we learn that leadership is not just a role; it is a vocation. Founders such as Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, Venerable Marie Thérèse de Lamourous, and Blessed Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon modeled leadership that was rooted in deep prayer, community, and a vision larger than themselves. They show us that true leadership begins with the inner life—with cultivating virtues such as humility, courage, and fidelity to one’s values.

Click here to read the full article.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Unknown Date
2015

Bro. John Raymond Habjan, 80, died on Sept. 1, 2025, in Kettering, OH, with 61 years of religious profession.

Bro. John was a dedicated teacher, high school administrator, and educational innovator. He’s remembered fondly by colleagues for setting high academic standards while also challenging students to achieve more than they thought capable. He played a key role in developing  “Characteristics of Marianist Education,” a document that has shaped teaching methods and curriculum at Marianist-sponsored schools in the U.S. since the 1990s. Click here to read more.

Click here to see more photos of Bro. John through the years.

1957
2015

Fr. Robert Emmet Hughes, 94, died on Sept. 24, 2025, in Cupertino, CA, with 76 years of religious profession.

Once his obituary is completed, you will find it here.

Click here to see more photos of Fr. Robert through the years.

Good to Know

Auschwitz Legacy Fellowship Awarded

Mandy Ocariz

An English teacher at Archbishop Moeller High School in Cincinnati, OH, was awarded the Auschwitz Legacy Fellowship. Mandy Ocariz underwent an application process and interview before being selected as one of 44 teachers across the country chosen for the fellowship. It is a year-long, fully funded educational program for high school teachers, launched by the Auschwitz-Birkenau Memorial Foundation (ABMF) to deepen Holocaust education in the United States. The program includes intensive pre-trip preparation, a transformative trip to Poland to visit Auschwitz-Birkenau and other historical sites.

Honor Bestowed Posthumously

Bro. Carmine Annuziata

On Friday, September 26, 2025, Bro. Carmine Annuziata, SM (1931-2022), was honored at a banquet with the distinguished medal of honor by the Alumni Association of St. James Catholic High School in Chester, PA. This medal honors and expresses the respect and love for Bro. Carmine and his 16 years at St. James.

Bro. Stephen Glodek, SM, wrote the biography and acceptance letter for this honor for the Marianist Province of the United States. Lance Lohr, a former student of Bro. Carmine and, subsequently, a fellow faculty member at St. James High School, accepted the honor on behalf of Bro. Carmine and the Society of Mary.

Celebrating 175 Years of Marianist Presence

The University of Dayton (UD) marked its 175th anniversary on Sept. 3, the date the first students attended class at what was then known as Saint Mary’s School for Boys. The anniversary was commemorated on that day with special events, but the celebrations continue with a pair of exhibits showcasing stories of UD’s history with artifacts, archives, art and more.

“Forever Marianist: 175 Years of Marianist Presence at UD,”  focusing on the foundational and ongoing impact of Marianists on the UD campus, is open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays now through Oct. 31, in the Marian Library Gallery.

“Honoring Our History: UD at 175” explores how UD has flourished and adapted to foster its welcoming community guided by Marianist values from its humble beginnings as a school for boys to a top-tier national research university. It is open weekdays 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and weekends 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. in the Stuart and Mimi Rose Gallery.

E-mail [email protected] for more information on the exhibits.

100 Years Young!

Bro. James Leahy turned 100 years young on Sept. 2! 🥳 This spry centenarian, born in 1925, was a beloved teacher and is now retired at the Marianist Community in Cupertino, CA.

Last year he celebrated 80 years of profession as a dedicated Marianist Brother. In his biography for the jubilee, he wrote, “I learned quite early in life that I would not be able to do everything for everybody but would be able to do something for somebody.”

Join the Journey!

Join Fr. Tim Kenney on a 10-day Spiritual Journey to Poland and Prague! The 2026 Pilgrimage, hosted by the Marianist Mission, takes place April 17-26. Space is limited. Click here for more info.

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

Chaminade Julienne High School (OH) – President

University of Dayton (OH) – Asst. Director of Marianist Strategies

Marianist Province of the U.S. (OH) – Director of Facilities

Archbishop Moeller High School (OH) – Campus Minister

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #96 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

Follow Us On Social Media

 

FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

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Faith-Fueled and Forever Changed: The LIFE Experience

“It was one of the best weeks of my life and changed my faith in ways I could have never imagined,” declared Ryan Eilermann, a junior at Chaminade College Preparatory School in St. Louis.

“LIFE helped strengthen my faith,” noted Natalya Garcia, a senior at Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School in Dayton, OH.

“I truly believe I am where I am today because of LIFE,” stated Theresa Mayorga, a participant in 2019 and auxiliary moderator in 2025.

What exactly is this LIFE (Living In Faith Experience) that warrants such passionate reviews from teenagers and young adults? It’s a Marianist summer program, a faith-formation experience for high school students and moderators.

This summer, 151 students from 17 Marianist schools in the U.S. Province, two from the Province of Meribah, St. Laurence College in Ireland, and two non-Marianist institutions, along with 61 adults, attended one of two Summer LIFE opportunities. One was held in June in Occidental, CA, and the other in Dayton, OH, in July.

DeDe Barth has participated in 15 Summer LIFE programs, formerly as a moderator and now as the national coordinator, and continues to be amazed. “Every time I am in awe of the community built during our time at LIFE and the impact it continues to have on our faith journeys for the rest of our lives,” she said.

“My LIFE experience truly shaped the direction of my life. At LIFE, I first learned about the Marianist Leadership Program (MLP) at St. Mary’s University, which I later applied for and joined. I never would have chosen St. Mary’s without MLP. There, I learned about Marianist PULSE, a year of service program that I just completed this past year,” shared Mayorga. It’s what prompted her to pursue being a physician assistant caring for underserved populations.

The takeaways of Summer LIFE may be different for each participant. Eilermann said the impression for him was “realizing that my faith will grow by helping others grow in their own.” Garcia revealed the keynote for her was “we have to learn how to trust people and help others.”

Everyone involved agrees that it is a life-changing encounter and one they encourage everyone to experience.

“It ignited my faith. I can never replicate what I felt, but I can share it. If I were able, I would make it a required trip. Jesus moved through the trees there, and I could feel it; therefore, finding myself compelled to tell anyone who listens what I experienced that week,” exclaimed Eilermann.

“One thing I want to share with my school is that if you have the opportunity to attend LIFE, do it because it will change your life,” said Garcia.

“Serving as an auxiliary moderator reminded me of how God moved in my life through LIFE and how he would continue to move through the lives of all the students who spend a piece of their summer at LIFE,” noted Mayorga.

Blessed was the theme for this year’s program, inspired by the song “I’m so Blessed“ by Cain. The program was blessed by the following vowed Marianists who shared their time, talents and presence: Fr. Bob Jones, Fr. Peter Heiskell, Bro. Brandon Alana, Bro. Chicago Schuller, and Bro. Peter Sennert. Novice Paul Pruski also served on the coordinating team.

In The News

UD Adds Trustees, Welcomes New Board Chair

The University of Dayton (UD) added seven highly accomplished members to its 2025-26 board of trustees, including significant contributors to its record-breaking “We Soar” campaign, senior business executives, a young legal standout, and two Marianists with decades of service in the Society of Mary.

Brian Blaser, Dave Conway, Kristin Dailey, Jamel Gross-Cassel, Greg Stevens, and Marianist Brothers Bob Metzger and Jack Ventura joined the board for three-year terms. Gross-Cassel will serve as a recent alumni trustee, a position for members three to eight years post-graduation with a record of student engagement in volunteer and philanthropy initiatives and continued involvement with UD.

The board also welcomed new chair Deb Tobias ‘73, who was chair of the University’s highly successful “We Soar” campaign. Tobias took over for Rick Omlor ’79, who spent 14 years on the board.

Click here to read bios of the new members. Click here for a full list of the board of trustees for the 2025-2026 school year.

Marianist-Sponsored High School Purchases Property

St. Mary’s South Side Catholic High School announced it has purchased the 23-acre property and all of its buildings from the St. Louis Archdiocese.

You may recall that in September 2022, the archdiocese announced that it planned to close the school.

Alumni of the nearly 100-year-old school rallied, garnering support from city leaders and establishing partnerships within the region, making the $1.5 million purchase possible. It will now operate independently from the archdiocese in leadership and finances, but remain committed to its Catholic Marianist education.

It has launched exciting new opportunities for students over the past few years, including:

  • Partnerships with local trade unions offering pre-apprenticeship college credits
  • Internships with SSM Health trades professionals, preparing students for career success
  • A renewed commitment to providing quality education rooted in faith and service

Click here to read more. Click here to watch a local news story.

Marianist Sisters Continue to Say, “YES”

The Marianist sisters had a joy-filled celebration marking the renewal of vows for Srs. Rose Rucoba and Emily Sandoval. It was also a time to bestow blessings and thanks on Sr. Gretchen Trautman as she finishes provincial leadership and the installation of the new unit council, Srs. Laura Leming, Leanne Jablonski, and Grace Walle.

Marianist Ministries in Action

Feast of the Assumption Celebrations

On August 15, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, who was taken up body and soul into heaven. In 1950, Pope Pius XII infallibly defined the dogma of the Assumption of Mary into heaven to be closely connected to faith in Christ. It’s a special day in the Marianist Family and was celebrated in communities and schools across the Province with Masses and feasts. At the Chaminade Julienne Catholic High School Mass, LIFE student leaders announced the hashtag #BeStrongCJ that they created over the summer to help guide their community. Through the hashtag, students hope to encourage each other and all of us to be strong in faith, strong in hope, and strong for one another. At Archbishop Riordan High School, the Assumption Mass also served as a welcome for the school’s new Chaplain, Fr. Jerald Geronimo. The Marian Library highlighted art depicting Mary’s Assumption by Bro. Cletus Behlmann, S.M.

Chaminade Julienne High School
Archbishop Riordan High School Mass with Fr. Jerald Geronimo
Mary's Assumption by Bro. Cletus
St. John Vianney High School Mass with Fr. Sean Downing, SM
Lay Marianists in Mexico
Governor's Island Marianist Community

Marianist Moments

First Marianists to Reach U.S.

Courtesy of the North American Center for Marianist Studies (NACMS)

In late 1849, Marianist Bros. Damian Litz, Andrew Edel, John Stintzi, and Maximin Zehler bravely crossed the Atlantic from France to join Bro. Charles Schultz, SM, and Fr. Leo Meyer, SM, who had arrived earlier that July. This determined group established the first Marianist presence in the United States, ministering in the Cincinnati-Dayton area and founding institutions like St. Mary’s School for Boys in 1850. This institution eventually evolved into University of Dayton, which is celebrating its 175th birthday this year.

For those traveling, we hope your summer adventures are far smoother than the arduous journey described by Bro. Damian Litz: “We got aboard a rickety, old merchantman in which a sort of den was made of rough boards to hold us and our originals. We did not sail: we rolled and rolled for forty-two and a half days. I was the first among the passengers to discover land. Brother Edel was sick of [with] dysentery during nearly the whole time. I myself got seasick at every heavy roll. (Brother Edel relates that during a severe storm, the vessel received such a severe shock once as to make Brother Litz jump up and cry out “Salve Regina.”) Brother Zehler was once flung from one side of the ship to the other and was badly hurt.”

To delve deeper into the Society of Mary’s early years in the U.S., read Father Leo Meyer’s 13 Years at Nazareth, by Fr. John Graves, SM, available in the NACMS bookstore.

Pray With Us

Please join us in prayer for these members of the Marianist Family.

◆ Recent deaths and those in need of prayers for healing in the Marianist Family

◆ Obituaries of U.S. Province Marianist brothers and priests since 2018

Each year, the Society of Mary recognizes brothers and priests who are marking milestones of their first profession of vows or their priestly ordinations.

Thank you to our 2025 Jubilarians! We will highlight them over the course of the next few months in FamilyOnline.

Click here to see pictures from the Jubilee celebration in St. Louis, MO, on May 31, 2025.

Click here to see pictures from the Jubilee celebration in Dayton, OH, on Aug. 9, 2025.

BRO. MICHAEL O’GRADY

I was born in Cleveland, OH, and grew up in Bluefield, WV, and Cleveland, attending Sacred Heart in Bluefield and both St. Aloysius and St. Philomena in Cleveland. My high school years were spent at Cathedral Latin School, also in Cleveland, and Marianist Preparatory in Beacon, NY, from which I graduated in January 1964. I professed my First Vows on February 11, 1965, in Marcy, NY, before relocating to University of Dayton, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in History and English in 1969. I then went on to earn a master’s degree in religious education from the Institute of Pastoral Studies at Loyola University Chicago in 1975. Click here to read more.

BRO. ROBERT RESING

Born and raised in Covington, KY, I attended St. John the Evangelist for grade school, followed by Covington Catholic High School, before professing my First Vows in Marcy, NY, on August 22, 1965. I went on to University of Dayton and Dayton Art Institute, where I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, before attending the Institute of Pastoral Studies at Loyola University Chicago. My first assignment—which lasted 17 years—was teaching art to students in years 7-12 at St. Paul’s College in Altona North, Victoria, Australia.  Click here to read more.

BRO. LAWRENCE SCRIVANI

I was born and raised in San Francisco, CA, where I attended School of the Epiphany, followed by Archbishop Riordan High School, graduating in 1964. I then attended Chaminade University of Honolulu in Hawaii for three years before moving to the University of San Francisco, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science in 1969. I went on to earn a Master of Arts from California State University in San Francisco (1975), a certificate from the Advanced Archival Studies Institute at the University of Denver (1980) and attended the International Mariological Research Institute at University of Dayton from 1997 to 2000. Click here to read more.

BRO. RICHARD THOMPSON

On my 60th year of religious profession as a Marianist, I can’t help but be filled with gratitude to Almighty God and to our Mother Mary for calling me to be a religious in the Society of Mary. I have been blessed to be surrounded by a community of men who, by their example of dedication and service, have continually encouraged and challenged me to live our vocations more fully. I have been blessed by the presence of many laymen and women who, throughout my years in various ministries, have given me confidence and have challenged me to live my vocation more fully. Click here to read more.

Good to Know

World Day of Prayer for Care of Creation

The World Day of Prayer for Care of Creation, celebrated on Sept. 1 every year, is the foundational day of the Season of Creation, which runs from Sept. 1 to Oct. 4 and culminates each year on the feast of St. Francis of Assisi. This day was observed in the Orthodox Church’s liturgical traditions before being adopted by the universal Church. The Catholic Church, under the leadership of Pope Francis, embraced this celebration in 2015.

Click here for resources on celebrating the Season of Creation.

Retreats Available Through December

Classes may have started, and summer is coming to a close, but retreats continue at the Marianist Family Retreat Center in Cape May. There are six retreats scheduled in September, and a variety of others are planned from October through December.  Some are on a wait list, so click here for the Retreat Calendar and book your getaway today!

JOIN US!

Click here to discover job opportunities within our Marianist Ministries across the United States. 

New listings include:

University of Dayton (OH) – Asst. Director of Marianist Strategies

Marianist Province of the U.S. (OH) – Director of Facilities

Archbishop Moeller High School (OH) – Campus Minister

Check Out More Marianist News

Via Latina from the General Administration of the Society of Mary

Sharing Our Marianist Stories podcast from North American Center for Marianist Studies

All Things Marian podcast from the International Marian Research Institute

Justice Jottings from the Marianist Social Justice Collaborative

AMU Newsletter from the Association of Marianist Universities

Region Update #93 from the Marianist Region of India

FatherSide Chats is a web video series featuring Fr. Gene Contadino. Discover new episodes every Tuesday about a variety of topics. Click the graphic to view episodes. Click here to read more.

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FamilyOnline Submissions

We welcome and encourage submissions of interest to our nearly 3,600 subscribers. Please send them to Theresa Petry.

GET CONNECTED!

Stay in touch with the Marianist Province by downloading our new mobile app!

Download your free copy today for easy access to information that supports the work of Marianist-sponsored ministries. Compatible with Apple iOS and Android devices.