Carrying Mary’s Spirit
Marist Moment: Carrying Mary’s Spirit
What would it look like if Mary were actually present and living in our midst, in your family, in your parish, in your workplace? Marist spirituality takes this question seriously and personally; it becomes an idea that takes root in real life so that Mary becomes present through her sons and daughters - Marist’s. And it sparks an even bigger idea: what would happen if the world was Mary’s parish?
A popular Marist Book called ‘Marist Laity’ offers some thoughtful ideas on the Marist Way of looking at and living life.
Carrying Mary’s Spirit
Marist spirituality does not begin with our effort. It begins with a gift. Jean-Claude Colin and his first companions believed that Mary had chosen them, given them her name, and invited them into a special relationship with her so that she could continue her work through them. The words that presided over the Society's earliest days were placed on Mary's lips: 'I supported the Church at its birth; I shall do so again at the end of time.' Mary would be that support through them — and, wonderfully, through us.
For Colin, a spirituality is simply the way we relate to God, to ourselves, to our neighbour, and to the world; it is the way we try to live the Gospel. The first Marists knew they were 'bearers of a particular grace in the Church and for the Church,' and they refused to hide it under a bushel. They wished to share it. That grace was never meant only for priests and religious. From the very beginning Colin imagined ordinary lay people — parents, workers, neighbours — carrying Mary's spirit into the world.
If you are drawn to the Marist Way, take that attraction seriously. It may itself be Mary's quiet invitation. You are not joining an exclusive club; you are answering a call to be a living Marist presence — to be for the world, in your own small corner of it, what Mary was for the world: a hidden, faithful, loving support for the Church being born again in every age.
Marist Reflection Question
Where in my ordinary life this week might Mary be inviting me to be her presence — to support the Church quietly, right where I already am?
Marist Practice
Each morning this week, pray one Hail Mary slowly and deliberately, asking Mary to continue her work through you that day. Each evening, name one moment where that prayer was answered.
Marist Download
This resource has been created from the Marist Spirituality Series: ‘Marist Laity’ by Fr Frank McKay SM. Click here for the full reflection guide
