A Marist Map of the World?

The above map, created by Br. Tony Leon of Australia, adorns the main assembly hall for the Marist International Mission Assembly.  I posted a picture of the map on the Marist Young Adult Facebook page along with the questions, “Is this a Marist view of the world?  What do you think?”  The picture received many likes but few comments, most of them having to do with the placement of Australia by an Australian Marist!  So, is this a Marist map?

I’m sure that much will be said about this visual during the course of the assembly.  It certainly gives us pause to look at the world differently, perhaps to turn our notions of things upside down and, maybe even, to give us a more accurate picture of reality.  Isn’t this what Jesus did through his words and actions?  Isn’t that what Marcellin did, too, in his time and place?

There are an incredible number of religious houses around this beautiful area of Nairobi.  Many of these houses serve to form young religious men and women who will go into the world to make a difference among the poor.  Yet, the relative wealth of these institutions stands in direct contrast to the poor who sit just outside of their walls.  That visual reminds me that it is not enough to see the world differently but to act upon what we see as so many of these young religious will do.

Is this a Marist map?  I hope so.  I am curious to hear what the Marist International Mission Assembly will say.

A Day of Rest

map of the world by drawn by Br. Tony Leon - notice anything?

The courtyard at Dimesse

Mosquito netting on the beds

So excited to finally be here
Coming over yesterday, the pilot alerted us to the fact that we were approaching the continent of Africa, at Alexandria.  It hit me then, just how far away from home I am.  Africa!  So many connotations - and I am here!  I couldn't keep from staring out the plane window, to see what I could discern about this mysterious, exciting,tumutlous, far away world.  It looked very barren - no sign of any habitation.  Even as the night came on, no sign of lights, until we started our approach to Nairobi.  Which looked huge from the air.
  It IS far away, yet  in true Marist style, I feel very welcomed and comfortable.  Upon arrival, just got unpacked and went to sleep ( under my mosquito netting).  Today, a tour of Dimesse then back to St. Joseph for more rest and dinner.  Tomorrow - Nairobi National Park!  Our residence is just on the border of it.  Can't wait to experience it.  Bernie - this will be where I see the wildlife!The retreat houses ( we've seen two so far) are beautiful.  Br. Steve and I are at the St. Joseph House, just down the road from Dimesse, where the main assembly is held and where some of the delegates are staying.  We have an easy day today - Sunday - to relax, rest, and get ready for the next 2 weeks.