On July 23rd, 210 years ago, Marcellin Champagnat and his fellow seminarians gathered before the Black Madonna of Fourvière to entrust their lives and future ministry to Mary. There, they pledged to establish a Society in her honor that would include four distinct branches: Priests, Brothers, Sisters, and committed Lay Marists. This was the original dream of the first Marists.

Having been ordained only the day before, Fr. Jean-Claude Colin, Fr. Marcellin Champagnat, and their companions set forth with remarkable faith and courage. Less than six months later, on January 2, 1817, Marcellin founded the Institute of the Marist Brothers in the rural village of La Valla, giving concrete expression to that dream.

In 2026, we give thanks that the vision of an official branch of committed Lay Marists has also become a vibrant reality. Through the growth of the Marists of Champagnat lay movement, that original dream has flourished in ways Marcellin himself could scarcely have imagined. This communion of Brothers and Lay Marists, united in mission and charism, has greatly enriched our USA Province and continues to spread throughout the Marist world. Together, we move forward with hope as we dream and build the future of Marist life in this third century of our history. 

As we move toward a new school year, our USA Province will continue to focus on responding to the Calls of the 23rd General Chapter. We are invited to ask ourselves: How can we be the Champagnats of today? How are we called to build new, living Hermitages that truly become Homes for All? In what ways can we become Rivers of Life, bringing hope, compassion, and the Gospel to all whom we encounter?

As Marists, we are called to be the Marian face of the Church—women and men who, like Mary, accompany others with humility, tenderness, and hope. May the example of Marcellin and the loving presence of our Good Mother inspire us to stand in solidarity with all who suffer, especially those who are vulnerable, forgotten, or living on the margins. In doing so, may we continue to bring Champagnat's dream to life for generations yet to come.

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.

• Instagram
• Facebook
• LinkedIn
• Flickr
• YouTube