b'A Messagefrom the ProvincialDear Friends of the Marianists, students share papers, projects, and reflections ontheir time at the university. Its amazing and yetIm writing this letter in early May as the end-of-the- humbling to listen to them. school-year celebrations are taking place in our schools We are privileged to be part of these young folksand parishes. As an educator my entire adult life, I must faith and life formation, but young people are just oneadmit that I have a love-hate relationship demographic we are called to serve. We also have thewith this time of year.opportunity to visit the sick and be with families asI say this because theres so much beauty they prepare for the death of loved ones. Then, wein the festivities and accomplishments of the have the blessing of accompanying young couples past nine months, yet theres also sorrow at Weddings and Baptisms, where the circle of lifeas the school year comes to a close. But the begins anew. beauty of the rituals reminds me to pause It is fantastic to experience these events with families,and celebrate the graces and the many good and it is exciting to see each persons wisdom and faiththings that weas Marianists on Marys grow. But it is also a reminder that being a Marianistmissionexperience.means we are always on Marys mission. We walk withFor example: young people through First Communion, Confirma-I had the blessing of Concelebrating the tion, and graduation from elementary school, highFirst Communion Mass, during which each school, and college, yet, the very next day, the processstudent was called by name before the begins again. The next group of students awaits. homily, then stood and proudly proclaimed, In the name of the Marianists across the UnitedHere I am, Lord! States and worldwide, I thank you for helping us carryAlso, I had the experience of presiding out Marys mission of bringing believers to her Son.at a grade school Mass in which, before the This is a true blessing for us, but it is a tremendousFather Oscar Vasquez, SM Eucharistic Prayer, I asked the students if they were task, and we couldnt do it without you.ready to help and respond. Once again, they answeredwith much enthusiasm, Yes!United in the Marianist Charism,\x00 In addition, Our Lady of the Pillar Parish in St. Louis had20 students receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Finally, another beautiful annual ritual occurs at Rev. Oscar Vasquez, SMone of our universities: During the last days of classes, Provincial2 Call 1.800.348.4732'