b'A Messagefrom the ProvincialDear Readers and Companions on this Marianist Journey, still a people blessed by God. The ongoing distributionof the vaccine is a great sign of hope.I am writing this letter on Jan. 6the day we tradi- I continue to be amazed by the resilience of ourtionally celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany. Marianist Family and our ministries as they find Like the three kings from the Epiphany story, this creative ways to be in prayer and service during thespecial day calls the Marianist Family to reflect on the pandemic. A couple of examples:questions: What are our gifts? And whatOne brother, who is in his 80s and lives at ourdoes this world desperately need? The story Marianist Residence in San Antonio, spends anof the three kings reminds us that God calls extra 45 minutes in the chapel each day prayingall people to be generous in how we give before the Blessed Sacramentin addition to ourselves to God and all of humankind. his daily community prayer and one hour of As I reflect on the meaning of Epiphany, personal prayer. I am touched by his faithfulnessI remember a social media post that featured a and dedication. quote by Mother Adle de Batz de Tren-I also am inspired by our students. I invite you toquellon, the foundress of the Marianist read the article, In pandemic, Catholic collegeSisters: Like the Magi, let us not return students still build community, do outreach,from the crib by the same route. That is, let published by Catholic News Service. Its aboutus lead an entirely new life, a changed life, how students at University of Dayton supportone transformed in God. one another in their faith and continue to be ofI love this quote. It reminds us to continue service during the pandemic (catholicnews.com/to be faithful and allow the challenges of in-pandemic-catholic-college-students-still-build-Scripture to show us the way to the future. community-do-outreach).As our Marianist Founders, Blessed Once again, I assure you that you are in our prayers.Chaminade and Blessed Adle, demon- We are thankful for the many ways that you supportFather Oscar Vasquez, SM strated during their unique time in history, we are our ministries and our Marianist Brothers and Sisters. called to look at our world and see how we can makeit a better placea place of hope and joy! Blessings, This past year has been difficult for each of us inmany different ways. Yet, during this global healthcrisis, we are called to be a people of hope and joy. Rev. Oscar Vasquez, SMEven though we are experiencing difficulties, we are Provincial 2 Call 1.800.348.4732'