I hope and pray that things are going well for you as you've started school. After a warm and eventful summer for many of us, fall sweeps in with cooler breezes and leaves turning colors. This is still an eventful time. The events unfolding overseas in Syria are top news, and it is important that we stand in solidarity with our Marist community in that region. To stand in solidarity means to be united with or in agreement with a group on a particular issue or feeling. Our common connection is faith in Jesus our Lord, and the belief that social justice includes safety from violence for all people. Standing in solidarity is not simply giving to a cause, but understanding the cause itself. Please take a moment to connect with and learn about our Marists in Syria by searching "Maristes Alep" on Facebook or Google. Connecting with one another fosters learning and community.

As I make the call to connect with our Marist family abroad, it is important that we actively practice the same here at home. Marist Young Adults study all across the country. Our digital lifeline, otherwise known as the Internet, allows us to communicate wherever we are. I invite you to continually read our Marist Young Adult Blog, join our College Transitions Chats online, and follow us on Twitter @MaristYAdult. These channels of communication open the door to continue to cultivate your Marist walk wherever you are. Most recently we've begun a series of weekly Marist challenges to help guide each week of the semester.  But don't just connect virtually. For those within proximity to one another... VISIT! Jesus tells us in Matthew 18:20 "For where two or three gather in my name, I am there with them." Building community is not always easy, but it can be done near or far. God is present in our sharing, be it a click or a hug.