The Marist Fathers of Oceania Marist Province, organized a Marist Laity Convention, with the Theme: ‘The Formation of Marist Laity in Charism and Spirituality in Synodality’. It was held from the 17th to 21st August at the Pacific Regional Seminary, Suva, Fiji. There were about two hundred participants from PNG& Bougainville, Vanuatu, Solomon Islands, New Caledonia, Wallis & Futuna, American Samoa & Samoa, Tonga, Fiji, Christchurch New Zealand and Sydney Australia. Participants from the SMSM Sisters who accompanied the Marist Laity group from their Mission areas were- Sr. Palepa Aukusitino – American Samoa, Srs. Susitina Siale, Teresia Bimara & Anunisia Fifita – Fiji, Sr. Lusia Meanadrau – New Caledonia, Srs. ‘Alakoka Veatufunga & Sesilia ‘Alamoti – Tonga, Sr. Marie Rose- Vanuatu and Sr. Nau ‘Apikotoa from Wallis & Futuna. Some of our sisters shared their rich experiences with members of the Marist Laity, as well as the Marist Sisters, Fathers and Brothers.
The Marist Laity Convention was an experienced of faith and renewed zeal for Mission. Father Claude Clin’s vision was “to make the whole world Marist”. This convention reawakened in us the passion and commitment to work collaboratively with other Marist Laity groups in the ‘hidden and unknown’ spirit of Mary.
American Samoa: experience of the Marist Laity Convention
Tasi Scanlon and I experienced the union of a family; not only the historical and traditional family of Third Orders, but a family of sisters and brothers who are full of life and dynamism. They came from all backgrounds and ages, united in the spirit of both Nazareth and Pentecost, with the central focus on the spirit and mission of Mary. The Marist Laity Group of American Samoa is blessed to have taken part in this convention. Tasi and I are taking home the spirit of Mary at Pentecost, namely that of prayer and action. It was through the Marist spirit that faith was first brought to the islands of American Samoa, and now we hope to enkindle this faith with new vibrancy and commitment.
We wish to re-establish new Mission and Vision, Structure and Activities for our Marist Laity group, with the focus on Mary being active in our daily lives.
