On Wednesday evening, 22 October, Marists from across Australia gathered online for a night of connection, reflection, and shared vision. The Marist Association National Online Gathering was a moment of grace, unity, and inspiration!
Br Darren Burge: Welcoming with the Spirit of Marcellin
Br Darren Burge, Leader of the Marist Association, opened the gathering with a warm and heartfelt welcome. He spoke passionately about the legacy of St Marcellin Champagnat - not just as a founder, but as a builder. “Marcellin was a builder,” Darren reminded us, “not only of schools and structures, but of people, communities, and hope.” His words resonated deeply, inviting members to see themselves as co-builders of the Marist mission in today’s world.
Br Darren also paid tribute to Br Peter Carroll, acknowledging his leadership and the steady, compassionate presence he has offered as Provincial. “Peter has helped us build with courage and faith,” Br Darren said, “and we are grateful for the foundation he leaves behind.” He shared that, at the recent General Chapter, Brothers from many different countries came to him to ask him about Br Peter, wanting to confirm their intuitions about him being a suitable Superior General. “They liked the fact that he was open-minded, they believed he's committed to genuine dialogue, and at this point in our time, the whole experience of being a synodal church is really important - that dialogue and that sense of communion.”
Br Peter Carroll: A Grateful Farewell
Br Peter Carroll addressed the gathering with humility and grace, reflecting on his time as Provincial. He expressed deep gratitude for the people who have walked alongside him and the mission they’ve shared. Of the Association, he said, “The strength of the Association lies with yourselves, the people who commit to these gatherings, and to making sure that our Association is, in fact, a living, breathing community of people who care for one another, who share a common vision, and who really put themselves out to further that mission of looking after young people in the way of St Marcelin.”
Richard Quinn: Prayer and Planning with Purpose
Richard Quinn, Executive Director of the Marist Association, led the community in prayer, grounding the evening in reflection and spiritual unity. Richard also outlined the process for the Pastoral Plan, explaining how members are now invited to contribute ideas and insights. “This is a plan shaped by all of us,” he said, “a living document that reflects our shared journey.” He emphasised that we are all active participants in shaping the future of the Association.
Members can download their copy of the Draft Pastoral Plan and send their feedback here.
Formation and Vision with Tony Clarke and Mark O’Farrell
In introducing the 2026 theme, Full of Grace - Transform the World with God’s Love, Tony Clarke spoke about the evolving needs of Marist communities and the importance of formation. “Each person is, in fact, already full of grace, as we're made in the image of our loving God.” His reflections challenged members to think creatively about how we nurture the Marist spirit, and how we can tease out the inherent Grace in all of us, and perhaps, “continue to transform the world with love.”
Mark O’Farrell also spoke about other formation opportunities for members, highlighting the new spiritual accompaniment program, and the three-day study program exploring the Marist spiritual heritage through the lens of the life, spirituality, and charism of our founder.
A Community of Builders
The National Online Gathering reminded us that the Marist Association is not just an organisation - it’s a community of builders. As Br Peter said, St Marcellin was “a man who was actively engaged in everything, with literally the sleeves rolled up. And, working to build - not just build the Hermitage - but to build a better world. To build hope.”