Author: Hayden Powick

Marist Asia Foundation – Graduation 2025

Marist Asia Foundation – Graduation 2025

Hayden Powick

Marist Asia Foundation had the joy and privilege of celebrating the graduation of our students who have completed five years of dedicated study with us. The ceremony marked not just the end of a chapter, but the beginning of exciting new journeys for each of our graduates.
The event was made even more special by the presence of the students’ proud parents, who have supported them throughout their educational journey. Their smiles and shared moments of pride added warmth and meaning to the celebration.

Our Acting Director, Mr. Prasit Rugklin, delivered an inspiring speech to the graduates. His words encouraged the students to carry forward the values, knowledge, and experiences gained during their time at Marist Asia Foundation as they step into the future with confidence and hope.

We congratulate all our graduates and wish them every success in the path ahead. May they continue to grow as compassionate, capable, and courageous individuals making a positive difference in their communities and beyond. More information to follow!

Climbing Mt. Loay and Community Year-End Evaluation

Climbing Mt. Loay and Community Year-End Evaluation

Hayden Powick

On May 3, our students set out on an early morning trek to Mt. Loay in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. Like the two disciples on the road to Emmaus, they walked side by side, sharing stories and supporting each other along the way.

They packed their gear the night before, prepared breakfast and lunch, and rose early to begin the journey. Accompanied by Kuya Alvin and a local guide in a yellow shirt, they left before 6:00 AM and steadily made their way to the peak. It was a tough climb—but the breathtaking view, laughter, and shared experiences made it all worth it.

By around 3:00 PM, they began their descent and returned to Tulip just before 5:00 PM. The house was quiet until dinner—tired legs and full hearts settling into a well-earned rest. Well done, everyone. You didn’t just conquer a mountain—you conquered yourselves!

This week, the community is taking time to reflect and give thanks through their year-end evaluation. Peer evaluation sessions (see photo) are underway, followed by one-on-one accompaniment to help each person review their journey.

The students will head home for their summer break on May 11, bringing with them stories, lessons, and memories from a year well-lived.

Holy Week at St. Michael’s, Eden

Holy Week at St. Michael’s, Eden

Hayden Powick

Holy Week at Saint Michael the Archangel Community was a profound and grace-filled journey through the core mysteries of the Christian faith. Through prayerful liturgies and meaningful traditions, parishioners entered deeply into the passion, death, and resurrection of Christ.

On Holy Thursday (April 17, 2025), the community celebrated the Mass of the Lord’s Supper. The Blessed Sacrament was transferred to a place of repose, reminding everyone of Christ’s enduring presence even in sorrow. That evening, the Saint Michael Youth Apostolate participated in the traditional Visita Iglesia, visiting seven churches to pray and reflect on Jesus’ journey to the cross. The night concluded with a quiet and prayerful Eucharistic Vigil.

Good Friday (April 18) was observed with solemnity and reverence. Parishioners walked the Way of the Cross together, meditating on Christ’s suffering. Many took the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and the Passion of the Lord was prayerfully celebrated in the afternoon. The atmosphere throughout the day was quiet and contemplative.

Holy Saturday (April 19) was a time of sacred waiting. In the evening, the community gathered for the Easter Vigil, beginning with the lighting of a new fire—a symbol of Christ’s light breaking into the darkness. The youth also prepared the venue for the Sugat, a local Easter tradition.

At dawn on Easter Sunday (April 20), the faithful witnessed the joyful Sugat, celebrating the meeting of the Risen Christ with the Blessed Virgin Mary. The Easter Mass was filled with light, music, and smiles as the community rejoiced in the Resurrection. After the liturgy, a cheerful Easter egg hunt for the children reminded everyone that Easter is not only a time of renewal but also of joy and celebration.

Though the week was full and at times physically tiring, it left the community spiritually refreshed. Saint Michael the Archangel Community experienced Holy Week not just as a remembrance of past events, but as a living encounter with Christ—crucified and risen—who brings hope and new beginnings.

Fr. Hayden Powick arrives in Ranong, Thailand

Hayden Powick

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.

Marist Asia Foundation Celebrates 19th Foundation Anniversary.

Hayden Powick

Marist Asia Foundation (MAF) joyfully celebrates its 19th anniversary, a significant milestone that reflects nearly twenty years of committed service to migrant communities. Through its work in education, health care, and interreligious and cultural dialogue, MAF has become a steadfast presence and a source of hope for many.

Despite numerous challenges and obstacles along the way, the Foundation has consistently delivered essential services with unwavering compassion and resilience.

This journey would not have been possible without the steadfast support of our donors, benefactors, volunteers, parents, and our partners in both governmental and non-governmental organizations. Your generosity and encouragement have been vital to sustaining and growing this mission.

From the depths of our hearts, we offer our sincere thanks to all who have walked alongside MAF. Your continued support allows this mission to flourish and brings lasting impact to countless lives.