It is amazing to actually see what I have heard about for so long. The birthplace of the Marist movement in France... Fourviere!
Friday, July 25, 2014
Thursday, July 24, 2014
Wednesday, July 23, 2014
On Our Way!
Phil Sitarksi and I are on our way to Frankfurt then Lyon! The pilgrimage begins!
There's lots of unknowns when you travel abroad. While we have an understanding of the Gospel & the Marist mission, that which is unknown can be found through prayerful exploration and reflection!
Monday, July 21, 2014
A Realization of Sorts.
As I write this, I've just started packing for France (far too late, as usual) and I've become increasingly aware of the fact that in just under 48 hours, I'll be on a flight to somewhere completely new and unknown. A voice in my head tells me I should be just a little nervous, but as I prepare for my travels I can't help but feel an overwhelming sense of excitement that eclipses any feelings of worry (if it's even there). If you would have asked me at the beginning of the year how I thought I would be spending my summer, I can certainly guarantee that "international travel" would not have even crossed my mind. In March, when I first realized that I had the opportunity to join other Marist members on a pilgrimage to Notre Dame de l'Hermitage, it seemed like nothing more than wishful thinking on my part, but after talking it over with my parents they surprisingly agreed with little convincing and few hesitations. Although it's been settled since May, the whole idea of being in France with my Marist family has really only become a reality in my mind in recent days.
I feel incredibly blessed to have been given this opportunity to not only see another part of the world, but to connect to and become more knowledgeable about my Marist roots as well. Marist is unlike anything else. It's something I am extremely grateful to be a part of and I am thrilled to learn more about how all of it was made possible and even walk the footsteps of the founding Brothers. Marist has opened so many doors for me and has connected me to so many wonderful people and opportunities to make a difference. So, I'm going to try my best to keep you connected to all that is going on while we're in France. One thing's for sure: you can expect many pictures!! During my time in France, I hope to share with you what little bits and pieces of France and the Marist living there that I can.
Hopefully the next time I write, I'll be on Central European Time, fighting off the jet lag as my less than satisfactory sleeping habits finally wreak their havoc. Until next time.
I feel incredibly blessed to have been given this opportunity to not only see another part of the world, but to connect to and become more knowledgeable about my Marist roots as well. Marist is unlike anything else. It's something I am extremely grateful to be a part of and I am thrilled to learn more about how all of it was made possible and even walk the footsteps of the founding Brothers. Marist has opened so many doors for me and has connected me to so many wonderful people and opportunities to make a difference. So, I'm going to try my best to keep you connected to all that is going on while we're in France. One thing's for sure: you can expect many pictures!! During my time in France, I hope to share with you what little bits and pieces of France and the Marist living there that I can.
Hopefully the next time I write, I'll be on Central European Time, fighting off the jet lag as my less than satisfactory sleeping habits finally wreak their havoc. Until next time.
Friday, July 18, 2014
Where It Seems Impossible
With a little under a week to go, I'm thinking a lot about what it took to actually build the Hermitage. Lots of people have experience working in/on a home, or maybe even some experience with construction work. It's not easy work!
Thinking back to Champagnat's time, creating a building in a valley in Southern France was a tall order. Cutting out bricks from valley rock sounds pretty tedious and tiresome! The community persevered, leaning on their faith, and ultimately built Notre Dame de L'Hermitage.
We all know our own shortcomings, weaknesses, and the things about ourselves we would like to improve. Building yourself up is a great desire, and it's also very possible. Just like building the Hermitage... that kind of building seems impossible sometimes! It takes perseverance...
God works through Jesus, through the community, the Mass, prayer, and through Scripture. It takes our effort too! Psalm 55:22 reads: "Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken". Do your part in the work of God building you up. Do it together!
Thinking back to Champagnat's time, creating a building in a valley in Southern France was a tall order. Cutting out bricks from valley rock sounds pretty tedious and tiresome! The community persevered, leaning on their faith, and ultimately built Notre Dame de L'Hermitage.
We all know our own shortcomings, weaknesses, and the things about ourselves we would like to improve. Building yourself up is a great desire, and it's also very possible. Just like building the Hermitage... that kind of building seems impossible sometimes! It takes perseverance...
God works through Jesus, through the community, the Mass, prayer, and through Scripture. It takes our effort too! Psalm 55:22 reads: "Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken". Do your part in the work of God building you up. Do it together!
Sunday, July 13, 2014
2017: A New Beginning
This video outlines the themes of the next three years, which culminate in the Marist Bicentenary! 200 years of our shared Marist heritage. In it, Br. Emili Turú gives a great walkthrough of significant locations and themes for all Marists. A great look at Les Palais, the Hermitage and the Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière!
Saturday, July 12, 2014
If you're interested in reading up on the life and mission of St. Marcellin Champagnat, check out this biography of him hosted on champagnat.org, the official international site of the Marist Brothers! Click the title to read it!
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