In his Lenten message for 2014, Pope Francis writes:

 

"It has been said that the only real regret lies in not being a saint (Léon Bloy); we could also say that there is only one real kind of poverty: not living as children of God and brothers and sisters of Christ."

 

It strikes me how each of the institutions sponsored by the Marianists take these words to heart -- in word and in action. In the "characteristics" developed for each ministry (Marianist education, Marianist universities and Marianist retreat ministry) we strive to bring all people closer to Christ. We do this with great love, great passion and great joy.

 

Here is a link to the Holy Father's letter. I invite you to read and reflect on this during the Lenten season, and ask yourself:

 

What am I doing to grow closer to Christ? Am I taking time to pause, reflect and pray each day? Am I nourishing my heart and soul to be able to serve? What could I do differently to strengthen my relationship with Christ?

 

When have I experienced God's love and compassion comforting me and bearing me in my weaknesses? Do I live this example of compassion and forgiveness in my workplace, home, community?

 

Where do I know "destitution" in my life (material, moral, spiritual)? What must I allow to be enlivened by the Holy Spirit, to be a better witness for Christ?

 

I pray we find time this Lent to pray and reflect in preparation for the blessings of Easter. Thank you for all you do to support the Marianist Province and the Office of Sponsorship.

 

God bless,

 

  

   

  

  

Marianist sponsorship, a ministry of service, animates apostolic works through relationship, partnership and the sharing of governance power to ensure fidelity to the mission of the Church and to the charism of Blessed Chaminade.

    

April 23 - Pittsburgh

  

   

 

In October 2014, the Office of Sponsorship will host a meeting of administrators of all Marianist-sponsored ministries. This will include presidents and principals from the sponsored schools, the executive directors of the sponsored retreat centers, and representatives of the sponsored universities.

 

This meeting replaces the School Administrators Conferences and Retreat Directors Conferences held in the past and allows the leaders of all sponsored ministries to gather and network, while allowing time to learn and share about specific ministries.

 

Please save the dates:

 

2014 Meeting of Administrators of Sponsored Ministries

Sunday, Oct. 26 - Tuesday, Oct. 28

Crowne Plaza Hotel - St. Louis

 

Planning Notes: An orientation meeting for new administrators will take place Sunday, October 26 at 1 p.m. The general meeting will convene at 4:30 p.m. with celebration of Sunday Eucharist.  

 

The meeting will end with a group dinner on Tuesday, Oct. 28. Please plan your departure for Wednesday, Oct. 29.   

 

  

   

A "Teaching as Ministry" (TAM) workshop will be offered in summer 2014 in Dayton. Participants at TAM can network with other Marianist educators, share the good things about Marianist education at their schools, gain insight and perspective on the "Characteristics of Marianist Education," and commit to making an impact on the Marianist character of their schools when they return home. Registration information will be sent soon.

 

Please save the dates:

 

2014 Teaching as Ministry (TAM) workshop

Monday, July 15 - Thursday, July 18

  

 

  

   

 

Neiheisel, NCEA Conference, Pittsburgh, April 23, 11:30 a.m., Room 326, convention center.