As European Delegate for Education within the Marist schools network from 2018 to 2026, Frank Dowling reflects on his mission devoted to educational excellence and spiritual formation. His reflection explores some of the defining moments that have shaped both personal leadership and the collective mission of these institutions.
Eight years can seem like a long time, yet they have passed in a flash. When I first took on the role of Education Deputy in 2018, I expected it to be for three years. Then Covid disrupted everything, and I stayed on to help our education world navigate a series of significant events. During this period, St. Mary’s Blackburn, San Giovanni Rome, and the Youth Project in Brescia all left the Marist network for different, unconnected, and unavoidable reasons. One shared consequence of these closures was that they brought the future of Marist Heritage in Education in Europe into sharp focus. While our religious communities are becoming smaller, our schools continue to thrive, with around 20,000 students in Marist establishments across France, Germany, and Ireland. For me, the Toulon Forum in October 2023 was a defining moment for education in Europe. After a year of preparation, a solid structure for the future was mapped out and put in place. The Superior General at the time, Fr John Larsen, gave the full support of the general administration. As a result, an assistant general now sits on the education commission, alongside a representative from Germany and the moderator of “Maristes en éducation”.
It was from Toulon that the first Marists set out on their mission to Oceania and, as John Larsen said at the time, the Forum was another ‘Toulon moment’ in Marist mission. As I retire from the role, a stronger network is in place with deeply committed Heads of Establishment across the Marist education community. Marist Heritage, charism, and characteristic spirit are now firmly at the heart of our schools: clearly articulated, lived day by day, and woven into the fabric of school life. I am deeply grateful to all the wonderful people with whom I have worked. I know that my successor will continue to safeguard the sacred mission of Marist education and help ensure its lasting legacy. Bonne continuation!
Frank Dowling, European Delegate for Education
