Marist Brothers mark bicentenary
Having respect for people is something the Marist Brothers instilled in their charges, reports, as Jubilee plans get under way this weekend.
living in Christchurch. There are about 50 in the North Island.
‘‘Most of us are over the age of 60,’’ Brother Osmund says.
His interest in becoming a brother was piqued during his schooling at Marist Primary. He had great respect for Brother Christopher.
‘‘I always wanted to be like Brother Christopher. He was fair to everyone and didn’t have pets. He went the extra mile with you, if you wanted extra tuition.’’
Brother Christopher taught at Marist from 1945 to 1953 and had a high success rate with the school’s rugby teams.
‘‘The brothers were great, but this guy [Brother Christopher] was exceptional,’’ Brother Osmund says.
‘‘I could see the brothers’ community were a happy group of people and they were dedicated.’’
Brother Osmund has taught throughout the country and at no stage thought about tossing it in.
His vocation to the Catholic faith remains rock-solid after 61 years. ‘‘I haven’t regretted it for a moment.’’
Brother Osmund is one of 171 brothers to have taught in Invercargill. Other brothers joining him for this weekend’s
Marist Brothers’ Jubilee
Order of events: Today 9am: Mass at the Basilica. 10am: Blessing of two plaques in Clyde St. 11.30am: Prayers at Eastern Cemetery for deceased brothers and Marist old boys. Noon: Lunch at the Marist Pavilion at Verdon College, followed by a tour of the college. 7pm: Meal at Verdon College. Tomorrow 10am: Mass and group photos at the Basilica.