European Province
Strength in Unity
The Marist Fathers and Brothers of the Society of Mary in Europe are a branch of the international congregation. Although usually referred to as ‘Marist Fathers’ the official name of the congregation is Society of Mary.
Our European Province was born in 2008 uniting the 7 different provinces in Europe, located in 8 countries: France, Ireland, Germany, Italy, Spain, the Netherlands, Norway and England.
Communion for mission
On 1st June 2008, the day of the birth of the European Province, the Superior General celebrated a solemn Mass in the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, where in 1816 the first Marist aspirants expressed their “sincere intention and our firm will to dedicate ourselves as soon as possible to the formation of the most devout Congregation of Marists”.
The European Provincial Superior is based in Paris, France, supported by his Council of 4 members. The congregation of the Society of Mary (https://www.maristsm.org) present in five continents with over 600 members worldwide.
“We, the Marist Fathers and Brothers (of the Society of Mary) in Europe, respond to the call of Jesus to practise and proclaim his gospel under Mary’s name and guidance. We draw our limited resources into a new apostolic body, an enriched communion for mission. To be more closely united, work more creatively, and act in greater solidarity we form one province beyond national limitations. We express our precious and unique role in the Church and place our gifts more effectively at the service of the people of Europe. As a single European province we intend to contribute in Mary’s way to infuse the spirit of Jesus into the hearts of people struggling toward unity, justice and compassion.”
(Declaration, Emmaus Centre, Swords, Ireland March 2007)
England
France
Germany
Ireland
Italy
Norway
Spain
The Netherlands