September 8, 2026

Dear USA Marists,

Blessings and prayers as we celebrate the birth of Mary, Our Good Mother!

Our recent General Chapter reminds us that, as Marists, we are called to be the Marial face of the Church in today’s world. Our lives and stories should therefore reflect something of Mary’s own. Her song of praise, the Magnificat, must become our song—the song of the whole Church and of all who have experienced God’s overflowing generosity and grace. It is the song of those who recognize that God loves them individually, personally, and unconditionally. With Mary, we can rejoice: God has chosen me. Despite my many failings and weaknesses, God loves me and walks with me. My spirit rejoices in God my Savior!

Mary lived much of her life quietly in the small town of Nazareth. We can imagine her days filled with ordinary tasks: preparing meals, washing clothes, drawing water from the well, and caring for her family. Most of us, too, spend our days attending to everyday responsibilities, caring for others, and seeking to live in peace with those around us. These simple moments invite us to embody an essential quality of our Marist charism: doing good quietly, with humility and love.

Yet Mary’s hidden life held extraordinary significance in God’s plan. Through her love, patience, mercy, and prayer, she helped create the home in which Jesus grew. Her life reminds us that ordinary acts of love can have a lasting and profound impact.

Every time we pray with our families or communities, choose mercy over resentment, or give rather than take, we touch the lives of those around us. We help bring Jesus’ presence into our homes, communities, schools, and workplaces. Whenever we magnify the Lord through our words and actions, especially by humbly sharing our faith, we help transform our world. Through her song of joy and gratitude, Mary reminds us that each of us, however small or unnoticed our role may seem, can bring Christ into the world.

On this feast, we also remember Mary’s parents, Saints Anne and Joachim, whom we honor for nurturing her in faith and love. Their quiet witness invites us to reflect on all who helped prepare our own hearts to say “yes” to God. Let us pray with gratitude for our parents, who gave us the gift of life, and for all who have been our teachers, witnesses and companions on our own journeys of faith.

May we honor that love and faith we have received through the lives we now lead. And may Mary, Our Good Mother, guide us as we continue our shared Marist mission: to make Jesus Christ known and loved, in the way of Mary.

With gratitude and prayers,

Br. Dan O'Riordan '85, US Provincial

Want to learn more about the Lay Marist adult formation program? Contact Maureen Hagan at mhagan8486@gmail.com or visit the Marists of Champagnat Website.

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