On 19 November 2025, the Interreligious Leaders Encounter for Peace gathered Buddhist, Muslim, and Christian leaders from across Ranong Province for a morning of reflection, dialogue, and a shared desire to strengthen peace in the community. The event aimed to deepen understanding between faiths and encourage practical ways of building harmony. The programme opened with … Read more Building Bridges of Hope Towards Lasting Peace
The Marist Fathers of the District of Asia join with confreres from around the world as the 30th General Chapter begins at the Ad Gentes Centre in Nemi, just outside Rome. Capitulants from 31 countries, including Asia, gathered in prayer and reflection under the theme “With Mary at Pentecost.” It was a moment of unity … Read more The 30th General Chapter of the Society of Mary
In the final week of May, the St. Michael Youth Apostolate hosted a vibrant three-day summer youth camp centered around the theme “Journeying with Hope, Discovering Faith.” The event brought together around 80 young people—including 10 participants from Bapas—at St. Michael’s Chapel for a memorable time of reflection, fun, and fellowship. Through a variety of … Read more St. Michael Youth Camp
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 … Read more Marist Asia Foundation – Graduation 2025
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, … Read more Climbing Mt. Loay and Community Year-End Evaluation
From May 25 to 30, 2025, we had the joy of welcoming Bishop-elect P. Miguel Angel, SM, to our District. His visit was a time of grace and warm fraternity as he spent time with various communities, including our brothers in Digos, the Novitiate, the Marist Sisters, and the children at Balay Pasilungan.
During his stay at the District house, we were grateful for the moments we shared in conversation with him. He told us that it was Pope Francis who had appointed him bishop back in February. The official announcement was scheduled for April 21, but it was postponed following the death of Pope Francis. It was finally made three months later by Pope Leo.
We continue to offer our prayers and best wishes for Bishop-elect Miguel Angel as he prepares for this new chapter in his ministry.
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.
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 (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.
On February 24, the SM Youth Apostolate Eden completed a meaningful 9-kilometer pilgrimage, walking from St. Michael Chapel to Fr. Pio Chapel. This was their first youth pilgrimage of the year. Nearly 50 young people took part, inspired by the words of Fr. Pio: “Pray, hope, and don’t worry.” Along the way, they engaged in both communal prayer and personal reflection, seeking a deeper connection with God and with one another.
History’s greatest pilgrimages of hope have always been collective. On this same day, we commemorate the anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution in the Philippines—a powerful reminder that hope is a shared language. When individuals unite around a common vision—saying no to power, no to pride, and no to greed—their footsteps become a drumbeat for change.
Society of Mary 