In late February, Hayden departed New Zealand to begin a new chapter of Marist service in Asia. His first stop was the Philippines, where he visited Marist communities in Davao and Digos. These visits offered an opportunity to reconnect with confreres and reflect on his journey since completing his novitiate nearly nine years ago. Returning to the Novitiate House in Eden was especially poignant, evoking many memories of earlier formation. Time spent with Marist companions in both Davao and Digos, including shared meals and warm reunions with host families, contributed to a sense of continuity and welcome.
Hayden is now based in Ranong, Thailand, where he has been settling in for the past month. Initial days have been focused on orientation—getting to know the staff and students at the Marist Asia Foundation, adjusting to the local climate, and beginning language studies. With the academic year in transition and the Thai New Year (Songkran) in the background, the centre has been relatively quiet.
Administrative tasks, such as visa renewals and work permits, have occupied much of the early weeks, alongside ongoing efforts to obtain a local motorbike license—an unexpectedly challenging process. Despite this, there have been positive developments, including the start of daily Thai language lessons with a local tutor from the parish community. These sessions have provided both structure and encouragement in the ongoing effort to learn the language.
Hayden will formally begin his teaching responsibilities at the Marist Asia Foundation in late May, focusing on English instruction.
Society of Mary 