On Thursday 19 February, over twenty-five members of our Melbourne Marist Association community gathered in the Pavilion Room at the Manningham Hotel for a rich and inspiring evening of reflection, creativity and conversation. The first Marist Association event for 2026 invited us to explore this year’s theme: Full of Grace: Transform the World with God’s Love.
Facilitated by Br Tony Leon, the evening was shaped around Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s provocative words:
“God’s grace is a free gift and it will cost you everything.”
Through storytelling, shared reflection and art making, Tony gently led us into considering moments in our own lives when we had experienced grace. Participants were invited not simply to recall events, but to “frame, unframe and reframe” them – to see how grace can reshape our understanding of both joy and struggle. The creative process opened up deep listening, vulnerability and insight, reminding us that while grace is freely given, it calls forth a wholehearted response.
Formation and Professional Enrichment for Marcellin College Teachers
It was particularly heartening to welcome a number of new participants to this gathering. We were delighted to have several teaching staff from Marcellin College join us, and we extend a special invitation to our Religious Education teachers to continue engaging with the Marist Association throughout the year. These evenings offer a valuable space for personal formation, professional enrichment and connection with the wider Marist charism that underpins our work in education.
Marist House Student Residents Welcomed
We were also privileged to welcome four young adults from Marist House in Fitzroy. Marist House is a residential community for university students studying in Melbourne. Hosted by a resident community of Marist Brothers, it provides a safe, supportive and faith-filled environment where young adults live intentionally together while pursuing their studies. Situated close to several major universities, Marist House continues the long Marist tradition of walking alongside young people, fostering their academic, personal and spiritual growth, and encouraging engagement in service and outreach. Their presence among us was a tangible reminder of the living and evolving Marist mission in Melbourne.
Guest Presenter, Br Tony Leon
Special thanks must go to Br Tony Leon for his ongoing accompaniment of the Melbourne Marist community over recent years. His thoughtful facilitation, pastoral wisdom and creative approach continue to enrich our gatherings and deepen our engagement with the Marist spirit.
The evening was marked by warmth, hospitality and a genuine spirit of communion. It was a joy to gather, to listen, to create and to be reminded that grace is indeed free – but never cheap.
We look forward to the many opportunities ahead in 2026 to continue growing together as a Marist community – through prayer, formation and shared mission – as we seek to be truly ‘Full of Grace’ in our world.
Geralyn McCarthy
Local Coordinator