March

On 18 January four young men made their first profession as Marists in the International Novitiate in Davao, Philippines. They are Yves Tuma from Cameroon, Emil Kenewata from Bougainville, Hayden Powick from New Zealand and Cameron Mota from Bougainville. Fr Christopher Ganzon received their vows on behalf of the Superior General, and in his homily he invited the newly professed to be the salt of the earth in Mary’s way, living out their religious commitment with joy, confidence and generosity. The celebration was graced by the presence of many members of the Marist Family, many other religious, friends and neighbours.

Beatification of the Venerable Father Jean-Claude Colin

The beginning of the process for the beatification of Fr Jean-Claude Colin took place in the residence of Cardinal Philippe Barbarin, the Archbishop of Lyons, France, on 26 January. The meeting was presided over by the Vicar General of the archdiocese. Those present were the Chancellor, the Episcopal Delegate, the Promoter of Justice, the Notary of the Cause, and three historical experts.

The Society of Mary was represented by Frs Bernard Thomasset, the vice-postulator, Paul Walsh and Paul Loubaresse. A presentation on aspects of Fr Colin’s work was given by Fr Bernard Thomasset, the formal reading of the nihil obstat granted by three dicasteries in Rome was formally read and there was a time of prayer.