The ANNUAL GATHERING OF EUROPEAN MARIST EDUCATORS took place in the Eternal City hosted by the General House community of Monteverde (14 – 16 January). Participants were school principals from France, Germany and Ireland, the European provincial and Marist confreres from the province involved in the education mission and their lay colleagues.  Fr Tony Kennedy also attended as General Assistant with responsibility for education.

One challenge that faces the “sacred mission of education” today is to remain distinctively Catholic and Marist, and at the same time be inclusive of other denominations. Europe’s religious landscape is continually changing due to historical shifts and ongoing global migration. As Europe attracts younger populations from poorer regions, its societies, and necessarily, its schools, are becoming increasingly diverse. Catholic education has an obligation to foster dialogue among different cultures and faiths. How not to “lose our soul” while allowing the dialogue of differences and encouraging the intercultural practices promoted by the Church today?

The keynote address was given by the Salesian, Fr Antony Christy Lourdunathan sdb, who offered his insights into this debate. What are the issues we encounter as we hold together openness to all and remain rooted in Christian belief? In the social and technological context of today, what are the attitudes we need to cultivate to implement the value of “inclusiveness” so dear to our Marist founders? His contribution was appreciated and generated fruitful small group discussions. Yet there remains the task of working out the practical implications of it all. You can read his talk in English  and French.

The assembly heard echoes from the General Chapter 2025 on the mission of education today and the path forward for the Society of Mary. The mission is more than maintaining Marist schools. It is about shaping the future by supporting our mission partners in education who animate it. This will ensure the vision of Fr. Colin and his companions continues to form hearts and minds for generations to come.

It wasn’t all work! Participants also had an opportunity to have a taste of the archaeological heritage of Rome by a visit to the neighbourhood of the Colosseum and the Basilica of San Clemente, followed by a Mass celebrated at the Marist community of Casa di Maria and animated by the students. The event was rounded off by enjoying the very best that Italian cuisine has to offer!

Martin McAnaney sm