BAS / INT

This Marianist Lay Community circular, written by Isabella Moyer, president of the International Organization of Marianist Lay Communities, is a personal reflection, to encourage your own reflection. What does this faith of the heart mean to your heart? How is it lived in the heart of your world?

Father Antonio Gascón, SM, provides an overview of Marie Thérèse de Lamourous' cause for sainthood and the efforts of Father Joseph Verrier related to this holy woman.

Father Eduardo Benlloch, SM, writes about how Chaminade’s contemplation of the mystical body of Christ became combined with his charismatic vision of the figure of Mary in the eternal plan of God.

According to Brother Lawrence J. Cada, SM, "American Catholic spirituality draws its most distinctive genius from the high ideals of the American ethos. Freedom is the ideal that will link Marianist spirituality and American Catholic spirituality."

A name, Father Chaminade taught, reveals the identity or the essence of a person. Combining the two meanings for the name of Mary examined here we get “Dolorosa Defiant”—the wounded rebel.

This paper addresses three components of Marianist spirituality: empowerment of the laity, Mary, and community. The historical relevance of the establishment of lay groups in Bordeaux is compared in two major biographies of Father Chaminade, and the characteristics of the early communities are presented as a model for today's Church. Mary is described as a person who teaches us pondering, hopefulness, and compassion—stances we assume as we join in her mission to bring Christ to the world. Some troubling aspects of how community is lived in Marianist circles in North America are considered.

“What is your take on Mary?” If you work at a Marianist institution, especially if you are in charge, this question may seem overwhelming. Father Joseph H. Lackner, in sobering candor, explores his relations with Mary. He draws upon literature and Scripture in his reflection and invites the audience to ponder and to grow in relationship with Mary.