What are you doing for Lent? 
It's the obvious question during this penitential season. For most of us "of a certain age" we've probably developed some routine Lenten observances in addition to not eating meat on Friday and attending Holy Week services. For me, I'm doing the usual (giving up sweets and complaining) but I'm adding something this year that might be of interest to you - Trying to Create Less Waste.  

The spiritual motivation for this is to remind myself of the beauty and fragility of God's creation and how I am called to be a steward of creation. If you'd like to join me in this effort (or at least follow my successes and failures) check out my blog Waste-Less Lent

Fr. Jim Martin suggests another creative approach to Lent by focusing on our relationships. He sums it up as - Be Kind. His sub-categories are:

1. Don't be a Jerk
2. Honor the Absent
3. Give the Benefit of the Doubt

He explains these ideas more fully in this short video. 

Be Kind

Josee Roberge National Rep.

                                      French Speaking

The MLCs in Quebec are a group of people who do not make a whole lot of noise, but who are doing their best to assist Mary in her mission of giving Jesus to the world.

Most of the lay Marianists in Quebec are engaged in activities around faith education and the new evangelization. Faithful to Chaminade's inspiration, we strive to found and support various faith development groups.

Some of us are engaged with parish evangelization cells based on an experience in Milan, Italy. These groups are invited to "radiate" in their local area and to multiply. Other lay Marianists are involved in their parish to provide Christian education for children or participate in other pastoral activities.

Typical indoor MLC gathering

A new MLC was born in October 2012 (we have yet to find a name!). The new group includes approximately 12 people who meet twice a month on Sunday morning, followed by Mass at the Marianist Center or at the parish.

Many lay Marianists participate in the mission of the Marianist Center for faith education. This is a new ministry which consists of listening and praying for and with people who are in great need of spiritual guidance. This practice is proving to be a good way to accompany people on an individual basis in the discovery of faith and healing of the soul and is growing very fast. The participants are generally invited to join one of our many groups. As an example, three groups of lay Marianists were recently founded and are facilitated by one of the priests working at the Center. Their objective is to learn more about and experience Marianist spirituality. These three groups are likely to officially become MLCs in the near future; more to come on this.

More typical Quebec in winter

This year, the Quebec Marianist Family will celebrate the 75th anniversary of its foundation. A special Mass and a large banquet are planned for May 19, Pentecost, to highlight this special event!

We thank you all for joining us in our thanksgiving prayers. Yes, God is making wonders for us!

Josee Roberge 

AROUND THE REGION 

Incredible Act Of Love

Validation

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