b'A Messagefrom the ProvincialGreetings and Peace, as I write to you from Colegio served as teachers, campus ministers, counselors andSan Jos, our Marianist-sponsored school in San Juan, administrators in our schools. Most importantly, wePuerto Rico: are helping young people discover their gifts anddiscern where God may be calling them. MarianistOnce again, we proudly present the Fall/Winter edition Father Ralph Seifert, one of our outstanding educators,of ALIVE magazine. This volume covers the full circle died unexpectedly in August after a short illness.of Marianist life, starting with the men who are cele- Due to his good foresight, Father Ralph had beenbrating their jubilees this year. We are so preparing a new leadership team at Chaminade honored by those who have been faithful College Preparatory School in St. Louis to carry Marianist religious for 25, 50, 60 and 70 forward the work of the Charism. We give thanks years. They have been men on a missionto God for Father Ralphs life, his 33 years of serviceMarys mission to transform the world and at Chaminade and all of the ways he humbly servedbring Jesus to all people. Im thankful for and accompanied students on their life journeys. their devotion and the ways they challenge all It is appropriate that in this edition we include aof us to be faithful to Gods call in our lives.story about the faithful lay women who minister andIn this edition, we also feature Marianist work alongside our Marianist Brothers in the provincialFather Gene Contadino, the new spiritual office in St. Louis. For nearly 20 years, they have beendirector for the Marianist Mission. Father a faithful mainstay during each change in adminis-Gene is an experienced teacher, former tration, and their institutional memory is priceless.campus minister at University of Dayton Their presence allows the members of the Provincialand pastor. He brings his creativity and Council to be out on mission and visit our communitiesvaried pastoral experiences to assist the and ministries each day. Thank you!Mission in developing programs and content, As our world continues to deal with the pandemic,as well as accompanying our donors. Part of we hope and pray that we may be people of faith andthe mission of all Marianists is to accompany dedication to our God. We dont know whats in storeFather Oscar Vasquez, SM others on their spiritual pilgrimages.for us in the days ahead, but we do know we are calledWe also spotlight the Virtual Lay Marianist Forma- to be faithful and faith-filled. Thank you for yourtion programa program that was under development continuing commitment to the Marianist mission inbefore the pandemic, but because of COVID-19 is now all ways.even more relevant. Using online videoconferencingtechnology, we are learning new ways of building Many Blessings, community and forming lay leaders in the MarianistCharism. This virtual format also enables dedicatedlay men and women to follow Gods call in their lives.Please join us in prayer with and for them. Rev. Oscar Vasquez, SMThis edition also showcases our traditional apostolate Provincial of education. Marianist brothers and priests always have2 Call 1.800.348.4732'