Marist Laity incorporating Marian Mothers is part of the international network of Lay people with a sense of being called to be Mary's presence in our church and world today. Laity have been involved in the Marist project from its earliest days and received the first approval from the Holy See in 1834. There are many ways lay people, men, women and families can be associated with Marist Spirituali
ty. Diversity is one of the hallmarks of the Marist Charism and Fr Colin, the founder of the Society of Mary had a sense that the spirit of Mary was to flow into the whole world. The Association of Mary, Third Order Groups and Marian Mothers are just three possibilities. If you have an idea for growing a sense of being a disciple like Mary in your area; connect with us and we can help discern it with you. To intentionally bear Mary's name as a Lay person is to live our daily life aware of being called to live the gospel of love and mercy in everyday ways that are appropriate to our life circumstances following Mary's way. Reiterating our baptismal commitment we entrust our lives to the Trinity through Mary in a simple but meaningful consecration, initially for a twelve month period after reflection and formation. It is our lay way of saying 'Yes' to Jesus like Mary. We ask her help and support in the way we follow Jesus, placing ourselves 'under her name' and care, and commit to her work and way of living as a follower of Jesus. Mary always leads to Jesus and helps us be more open to the Holy Spirit for the glory of God. Mary was a lay woman and Marist discipleship is ideally suited to the 21st century where laity are being called to accept their full dignity and co-responsibility within the church for the world. "The Virgin Mary teaches us what it means to live in the Holy Spirit and what it means to accept the news of God in our life." (Pope Francis, 28 April 2013)
New Evangelisation. To be Marist is one way to respond generously to the call to new evangelisation and is open to all age groups. All groups are offered relevant reflection material each month from February to December. All groups or individuals can access the reflection direct from our website. In New Zealand for a little while yet we are still sending out a compact disc, with the accompanying leaflets, and a newsletter, to guide a monthly meeting. The written 'E' form of these is also available each month on the website. Overseas groups can receive material by post (donations requested for this option) but as everything is online we encourage you to receive the links by email notification. Interested individuals anywhere can sign up for this email notice on the webpage. Lay Marist formation, International Lay Marist News and renewal material is also available. There are opportunities for retreats in NZ regions that wish to host them. The Facilitator visits NZ groups in various regions when possible for prayer and encouragement.
