The Marist Way is a spiritual journey modeled on Mary’s humility, faith, and quiet strength, calling Marists to live with openness to God’s will, compassionate service, and deep trust in divine providence. Rooted in the phrase 'In the Way of Mary,' this charism emphasizes humility, presence, and mission, inspiring Marists to serve hidden and unknown, without seeking recognition. It is an inclusive and accessible path, inviting all—both lay and religious—to integrate faith into daily life, embracing a lived discipleship that reflects Mary’s “yes” to God at the Annunciation. Guided by the belief that faith is a continuous journey, the Marist Way calls its followers to be instruments of divine mercy, bringing hope and compassion to those on the margins. In a world that often values power and recognition, the Marist Way offers a gentle, humble alternative—one of service, simplicity, and love.

The Youth Ministry Equipping School (YMES) in Canberra brought together over 200 young people from New South Wales, Victoria, and New Zealand to develop leadership, faith formation, and ministry skills. Archbishop Christopher Prowse emphasized that being Christian is not about “functional Christianity” but about activating our Baptismal call and living out Jesus’ presence today. The conference highlighted the importance of charisms—God-given gifts activated by the Holy Spirit—and how faith must be lived, not just learned. The New Evangelization was presented as Christ-centered, invitational, and deeply relational, calling us to prayer, witness, sacramental living, and outreach. YMES ended with a focus on the Holy Spirit as the driving force of renewal, stirring hearts toward action and transformation. Returning home, participants left with a renewed commitment to discipleship, boldly proclaiming: “Jesus Christ loves you. Not some of you. All of you. Will you love too?”

Dr Susan Connelly is a Sister of St Joseph, was a primary school teacher and principal, and worked for ten years teaching scripture in state schools full time. She has been involved with Timorese issues since 1994 and is particularly concerned about the implications of Australia’s spying on Timor-Leste.

I would like to plead for a Marian church; not for a church which multiplies processions and blesses huge statues ... rather a church which 'lives the Gospel after the manner of Mary'. The Marian Church follows Mary into the mountains, going off with her to encounter life; she visits men and women, and, though things may seem to be sterile, she is on the watch for what is coming to birth, for possibilities, for the life which beats in things.

Father Jim’s homily draws an interesting parallel between Sheldon Cooper from *The Big Bang Theory* and Jesus’ teaching on loving one’s enemies. Sheldon, a brilliant yet socially awkward physicist, has a rigid sense of justice, maintaining a list of sworn mortal enemies over both serious and trivial offenses. If asked, he would find Jesus’ command to “love your enemies” completely irrational, as his worldview is strictly black and white. However, the reality is that many of us also struggle with this radical teaching. While we may not have a physical list of enemies, we likely harbor resentment towards those who have wronged us, making Jesus' words just as challenging for us as they would be for Sheldon.

The audio presentation “The Art of Being Present” centers on the idea that true fulfillment comes from fully engaging with the moment we’re in. It challenges the modern tendency to become distracted by digital devices and a constant barrage of external stimuli, urging us instead to slow down and reconnect with our immediate surroundings. At its core, the presentation redefines presence as a mindful state where our attention is intentionally focused on the here and now, rather than being pulled into the past or future by worries or habitual multitasking.

Pope Francis, elected in 2013, emerged as a leader committed to reform, inclusion, and care for the marginalized. Taking the name Francis, a first in papal history, signified his commitment to the poor and the environment, inspired by Saint Francis of Assisi. His papacy followed a turbulent period in the Vatican, marked by scandals and Pope Benedict XVI’s unprecedented resignation. From the outset, Pope Francis sought to reshape the Church’s mission, focusing on the suffering and the excluded. His leadership has encountered resistance, but he continues to emphasize that change is necessary and aligns with the Church’s true calling.

In this powerful scene from The Chosen, Jesus arrives in Bethany after Lazarus has already died. Martha, heartbroken and confused, expresses her sorrow and disappointment, telling Jesus that if He had been there, her brother would not have died. Despite her grief, she still trusts that God will grant whatever Jesus asks. Jesus reassures her that Lazarus will rise again, but He clarifies that He is not just speaking of the resurrection at the end of time—He is the resurrection and the life. He asks Martha if she believes this, and she affirms her faith in Him as the Christ, even without fully understanding.

Each week, Marists are called to gather in prayer, deepening their connection to God, one another, and the Marist mission. Through reflection on the foundation and charism of the Society of Mary, the Gospel of the day, meaningful discussion, common prayer, music, and journaling, Marists create space for spiritual renewal and shared faith. Taking time for prayer and formation is not just an opportunity but a responsibility, as it is through these moments of unity and contemplation that we truly live out the vision of Jesus and Mary, strengthening our commitment to humility, service, and love.

Sviatoslav Shevchuk reflects on the three-year war in Ukraine, describing the resilience of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church despite ongoing suffering. The Church has become a place of refuge and evangelization, with thousands turning to faith amid crisis. He warns against the weaponization of religion, urging the global community to prioritize truth, justice, and human dignity over political interests. He also highlights war crimes, including the abduction of Ukrainian children and the torture of prisoners, calling for international intervention. Lastly, he praises Pope Francis' unwavering support, emphasizing that true peace can only be built on justice and solidarity.