Bearing Fruit

"Every tree is known by its own fruit" (Lk 6:44).  On this Saturday dedicated to Mary, we take a moment to reflect on this verse from St. Luke in light of her.  She received the Word in her womb and brought forth fruit in love.  We pray daily, "and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus."  By this most holy and precious fruit, we have come to know Mary as the Mother of God, and as such, the Mother of all Grace.  She is the channel through which the grace of God entered our world and continues to bring forth new fruit in those who believe.
In a particular way, we Marists dedicate ourselves to assisting Mary in this mission, this process, by providing the means for grace to reach our youth. Through education we help students to understand who their Creator, Redeemer and Sanctifier is and how best to serve this Triune God.  Through retreats such as the Marist Youth Encounter Christ, we give students a hands-on experience of God through activity, talks and sacrament.  At this current Encounter, students in large numbers received the Sacrament of Reconciliation and tonight their encounter with Christ will climax when they participate in Holy Mass.  Friendships, fun, joy, and affirmation as well as commitment to live the Christian life reassuringly demonstrate that the Marist Tree is bearing good fruit.  For this we humbly give thanks.
Bro. Rene