Marist Birthday

196 years ago today, the 28 year old newly ordained curate of the parish at Lavalla, France, Father Marcellin Champagnat welcomed two young men into the house he had purchased with borrowed money and renovated with his own hands and began the first chapter of a saga which continues today:  the founding of the Little Brothers of Mary, or Marist Brothers as we are more commonly known..  A simple beginning for a vision which would eventually span the globe.  A purpose and mission:  to make Jesus known and loved by all, especially youth, and those most neglected or in need.  Life in those early days consisted in prayer, study: the catechism, practical teaching methods and classroom management, and manual work (the making of nails to provide income for the small community).  A brave and bold venture, not without its critics, yet based on the faith that this was not simply the dream of a young man, but the will of God.  Marcellin's faith was modeled after the faith of the Blessed Virgin Mary, whom he considered the real foundress and first superior of the group.  He had little idea on this day what was on the road ahead, but with faith, plunged forward "one day at a time," as so many of us do.  That great trust and faith has brought the Marist Brothers to 80 countries where their influence has touched the lives of countless students, coleagues and families over this nearly two-century span of time.  A question to consider as we chew on today's slice of bread:  "Where would I be today, if it were not for the Marist Brothers?"  Let us humbly give thanks for this great gift to the Church and pray that we all remain faithful to the example of this daring, humble Servant of God and the mission he gave to all who call themselves Marist.
Bro. Rene