ROE (Rencontre des Œuvres Éducatives) 2025

By Wendy Sinclair 

I was delighted to be invited to the ROE Gathering 2025 by Brother PJ and Leigh Ellis.

The gathering allowed me to connect with Marist Brothers and lay Marists from the Province of L’Hermitage and the District of West Central Europe. The programme for the gathering was packed, giving delegates maximum amount of time to network, make connections and share the opportunities we provide for our young people in our schools. Engaging in discussions and focussing on the facets from within “In the Footsteps of Marcellin Champagnat” with fellow Marists, was insightful. The workshops allowed us to discuss the current realities faced by our young people. “As evangelisers and educators, we seek opportunities to be with young people wherever they are. We develop a broader understanding of the realities faced by children and young people” (page 50). We embraced sensitive discussions with other delegates and in doing so, we affirmed that our mission as Marist educators is to live the Gospel values and Marist values, ensuring that we take cognisance of the challenges our children and young people face today.

This was my third visit to L’Hermitage, each time I learn something new about Marcellin Champagnat and his Brothers. Brother Paul kindly gave us an insightful tour of L’Hermitage followed by a visit to La Valla where we met with the Marist Brothers who live there. The passion and love for Marcellin Champagnat which exudes from each Marist Brother that I have been fortunate to meet, is truly inspiring. As a lay Marist who was fortunate to attend a Marist school as a young person, I am grateful for the guidance and support from our Marist Family across the province and district, especially Brother PJ.

Thank you for the opportunity to be part of this wonderful experience.