You’re Invited!

What does it take to build genuine community in a world that can feel increasingly disconnected? For the Marianist Family, the answer begins with Mary.

That belief brought Lay Marianists from across the country—and across generations—to Louisville, KY, for the Marianist Lay Community of North America (MLC-NA) Assembly.  The theme “Building Community with Mary” had participants explore how to strengthen community and carry a distinctly Marianist way of living into families, neighborhoods, and the wider world.

The gathering drew approximately 117 adults and 21 children, from young families to longtime Lay Marianists in their 80s—including families representing two and even three generations. “The atmosphere was vibrant and hopeful,” described Assistant for Education Bro. Tom Wendorf, recalling worship filled with song and enthusiastic participation.

Speakers and workshops approached community from different perspectives. Graham McBain of Hey Neighbor offered practical approaches to bringing people together, while theologian and author Natalia Imperatori-Lee invited participants to consider how their understanding of the Blessed Mother shapes their relationship with her. The Marianist Encounters team explored ways individuals and ministries can deepen ecological care and inspire faith-driven action.

For Jessica González Uhlig, Ed.D., Program Administrator at NACMS, the meeting came at an important moment. “The assembly provided a time for members of the Marianist Family to come together at a time of change in demographics, yet creating a sense of hope for facing challenges together,” she said.

New leadership throughout the branches of the Marianist Family adds to that sense of possibility. Jessica sees an opportunity for fresh perspectives and closer collaboration among Lay Marianists, the Society of Mary, and the Daughters of Mary Immaculate.

Bro. Tom agrees, “My hope is that MLC-NA will continue to foster vocations to the Marianist Family and collaboration with the vowed religious branches,” he said, calling MLC-NA “a vital gift for the Church in the U.S.—a witness that lay people and communities are at the heart of the Church’s mission in the world.”

The assembly also raised important questions for what comes next, such as: How can the Lay Marianist Family become more diverse, including greater participation among Hispanic Catholics? Could MLC-NA, FMI, and SM someday gather in a joint assembly? And how can each branch maintain its distinct identity while working more closely as one Marianist Family?

Those conversations are already extending beyond Louisville. The international Lay Marianist assembly recently wrapped up in Bogotá, Colombia, carrying the same spirit of community and collaboration onto a global stage.

While these gatherings may have concluded, the real work is just beginning—in homes, ministries, and communities where Marianists are called to live Mary’s mission together and invite others to become part of it.  Consider this your invitation!

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