Groups gathered at Marist High School in Chicago, St. Joseph Academy in Brownsville, Christopher Columbus High School in Miami, Central Catholic High School in Lawrence, Archbishop Molloy High School in Queens, and the Marist Brothers Center in Esopus. These groups were joined via Zoom by people from Kentucky, Louisiana, Texas, Massachusetts, Maryland, Florida, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and as far away as Prince Edward Island in Canada! The prayer was led by Maureen Hagan, with Br. Dan O’Riordan conducting the actual commitment ceremony. Erin Kelly in Chicago gifted us by singing the Marist rendition of 'Hallelujah', accompanied by Br. Hank Hammer on the piano. Each new Marist of Champagnat received the cross signifying their commitment, as well as a copy of 'Walking With Mary', authored by our own Br. Dan O’Riordan. A joyous atmosphere pervaded the Province, whether in person or on Zoom. Many companions were able to greet each other in person for the first time.
A heartfelt shout-out to all of the Brothers who joined in – whether as participants, as companions, or as general supporters. Brothers Joe Herrera and Phil Degagne even made the four-hour trek from Laredo to Brownsville to support the Marists of Saint Joseph Academy at the commitment ceremony!
A special thanks goes out to those coordinating the local celebrations – Richard Karsten, Br. John Healy, Lindsay Irwin, Erin Kelly and Vince Andiorio, Chris Sullivan, Tim Hagan and Tomas O’Riordan, as well as all who helped out. We look forward with excitement as we see where these new Marists of Champagnat will make their mark!
