Marist Brothers Not specified
Catholic teaching congregation
January 2, 1817
La Valla, Loire, France0
0 likesJanuary 2, 2026
91 days away4
Updated just nowThe Marist Brothers, officially known as the Institute of the Marist Brothers of the Schools, are a Catholic religious congregation founded on January 2, 1817, in La Valla, near Lyon, France, by Saint Marcellin Champagnat. The order was established with the mission of providing Christian education to young people, especially those in rural and underserved areas. Champagnat, moved by his concern for neglected youth, gathered a group of young men to form a brotherhood dedicated to education, simplicity, and service.
The Marist Brothers quickly expanded their presence throughout France and beyond. By emphasizing strong values, accessible education, and a nurturing environment, they became an important influence in Catholic schooling. Members of the order take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, dedicating their lives to teaching and serving young people. Their work has often focused on marginalized and disadvantaged communities, reflecting Champagnat's vision of evangelizing through education.
Today, the Marist Brothers operate in more than 80 countries across the world, running schools, universities, youth centers, and missionary projects. They are known for their commitment to holistic education, which integrates academic excellence with moral and spiritual formation. The Marist Brothers' global presence has made them one of the most influential teaching orders in the Catholic Church, impacting generations of students. Their enduring legacy continues through the thousands of brothers and lay partners who live out their founder's mission of "making Jesus Christ known and loved."
The Marist Brothers' contribution to education has been widely recognized within the Church, and Saint Marcellin Champagnat was canonized in 1999 by Pope John Paul II, further cementing the order's spiritual and educational significance worldwide.
Latest news about Marist Brothers
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Champagnat / Marist World
Br. Peter Carroll Elected New Superior General of Marist Brothers
On 30 September 2025, Br. Peter Gerard Carroll was elected as the 15th Superior General of the Institute of the Marist Brothers during the XXIII General Chapter in Tagaytay, Philippines. He will lead the Marist Institute for the next eight years, guiding its global educational and missionary mission. His election marks a new chapter in the leadership of the Marists of Champagnat.
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Champagnat
XXIII General Chapter 2025 Begins in Tagaytay, Philippines
The 23rd General Chapter of the Marist Brothers commenced on 8 September 2025 in Tagaytay, Philippines, running through 8 October under the theme "Home for All, River of Life." The Chapter brings together delegates from around the world to chart the future direction of the Marist Institute, renewing commitments in education, mission, and governance.
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Marist Brothers News
Camp Marist 2025 Season Wraps with Color War Finale
On 15 August 2025, Marist Brothers reported the close of their Camp Marist 2025 season, highlighted by the White Team Fortress winning the annual Color War competition. The summer program featured community, challenge, and growth for campers and staff alike. The celebration capped off a season of activities and fellowship under the Marist youth ministry.
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Columbus High School News
Marist Brothers from Christopher Columbus High Attend Global Chapter
In early October 2025, three Marist Brothers affiliated with Christopher Columbus High School-Br. Patrick McNamara, Br. Ben Consigli, and Br. Albert Rivera-participated in the XXIII General Chapter in Tagaytay. Their representation highlights the ongoing relationship between local Marist institutions and the broader global governance of the Institute.
Frequently Asked Questions about Marist Brothers
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Who founded the Marist Brothers?
The Marist Brothers were founded by Saint Marcellin Champagnat in 1817 in La Valla, France, with the mission of educating youth, particularly the poor and neglected.
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When were the Marist Brothers established?
The Marist Brothers were officially established on January 2, 1817, in La Valla, near Lyon, France, by Saint Marcellin Champagnat.
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What is the mission of the Marist Brothers?
The Marist Brothers dedicate themselves to Catholic education, focusing on teaching young people, especially those in rural and disadvantaged communities, through schools and youth programs.
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Where do the Marist Brothers work today?
Today, the Marist Brothers work in more than 80 countries worldwide, running schools, universities, youth centers, and missionary projects to serve communities.
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What vows do Marist Brothers take?
Marist Brothers take vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience, dedicating their lives to religious service and Catholic education.
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Who was Saint Marcellin Champagnat?
Saint Marcellin Champagnat was a French priest who founded the Marist Brothers in 1817. He was canonized in 1999 by Pope John Paul II for his dedication to Catholic education.
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How are the Marist Brothers different from other Catholic orders?
The Marist Brothers are distinct for their focus on education and their identity as a teaching congregation of lay brothers, rather than ordained priests.
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What schools do the Marist Brothers run?
The Marist Brothers operate primary schools, secondary schools, universities, and youth formation centers across the globe, emphasizing both academic and moral education.
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Are the Marist Brothers still active?
Yes, the Marist Brothers remain active worldwide, continuing their mission of education and service to youth, often working with lay partners and volunteers.
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How many Marist Brothers are there today?
There are several thousand Marist Brothers globally, along with a large network of lay partners who share in their educational mission across 80+ countries.
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What is the spirituality of the Marist Brothers?
The spirituality of the Marist Brothers emphasizes humility, simplicity, family spirit, and devotion to Mary, serving as guiding principles in their educational mission.
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What role did the Marist Brothers play in missionary work?
The Marist Brothers were active missionaries, beginning with Oceania in the 1830s, where they founded schools and contributed to spreading Catholic education abroad.
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When was Marist Brothers born?
Born on January 2, 1817
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What is Marist Brothers best known for?
Marist Brothers is known as a Catholic teaching congregation from France.
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How old is Marist Brothers?
Marist Brothers is 208 years old.
