Strengthening Marist Solidarity and Volunteering: MISN and MVN Meet in Rome
Rome, December 2025 – In early December, members of the Marist International Solidarity Network (MISN) and the Marist Volunteering Network (MVN) gathered at the General House in Rome for a joint working meeting aimed at reinforcing collaboration and renewing their shared commitment to solidarity and volunteering within the Marist Institute.
Eleven participants from different regions of the Marist world took part in the meeting, including Brothers Diego and Nnodu from the Secretariat of Solidarity. Their presence reflected the Institute’s spirit of communion and the collective responsibility of Brothers and Lay partners in advancing the Marist mission.
The meeting focused on strengthening internal coordination, refining organizational structures, and exploring ways to better integrate MISN and MVN as complementary expressions of a single Marist Solidarity ecosystem. Participants engaged in open dialogue on emerging global challenges, evolving missionary priorities, and concrete opportunities to revitalize both solidarity initiatives and volunteering pathways.
A central moment of the gathering was a SWOT analysis of the Marist Solidarity area, which helped identify strengths to build upon, weaknesses to address, opportunities for growth, and potential risks. This exercise led to greater clarity around the operational framework, with an emphasis on coherence, regional alignment, clearly defined roles, and improved internal communication.
Looking ahead, the group also began preparations for the upcoming joint assembly, collaborating on key themes and participatory methodologies. Particular attention was given to the celebration of Marist Volunteer Day, envisioned as a meaningful opportunity to recognize and honor the commitment of volunteers serving in diverse contexts around the world.
The week unfolded in a spirit of fraternity and shared reflection. It opened with greetings from the Superior General and the Vicar General and continued with project updates, reflections on regional realities, and discussions on advocacy, formation, social ministries, and volunteering. A fraternal visit to Rome further strengthened intercultural bonds and community life among participants.
The meeting concluded with a moment of evaluation, expressions of gratitude, a shared celebration.
Overall, the Joint Meeting of the MISN–MVN Bodies marked an important step forward in consolidating the global Marist mission of solidarity and volunteering. Walking together—Brothers and Lay, across cultures and continents—continues to be the most effective and prophetic way of nurturing a hope-filled Marist presence in today’s world.
