In 2025, I was privileged to take part in the Marist Pilgrimage, a 20‑day journey that led me to the sources of both the Christian faith and the Marist story. Travelling through Greece, Türkiye, Italy, and France, this pilgrimage was far more than an overseas experience; it was a spiritual journey that deepened my understanding of faith, mission and what it means to live and lead as a Marist educator today. 

Our journey began in Greece, where the world of the New Testament came alive. Standing in places such as Athens, Corinth, Philippi and Thessaloniki, I walked in the footsteps of Saint Paul and the first Christian communities. These sacred locations brought scripture out of the page and into lived experience. Celebrating Mass in ancient sites, climbing the Areopagus where Paul preached about the “Unknown God,” and renewing baptismal promises at Lydia’s Baptistery in Philippi were deeply moving moments. They reminded me that Christian faith has always been missionary in nature. 

In Türkiye, the pilgrimage challenged and enriched my faith in new ways. Visiting Istanbul, Smyrna, and Ephesus offered insight into the complex relationship between Christianity and Islam and the reality of living faith as a minority. Walking the streets of ancient Ephesus, reflecting on the letters of Revelation, and praying at the House of Mary deepened my appreciation of Marian spirituality and its enduring significance. These encounters encouraged me to think more critically and compassionately about interfaith dialogue, religious identity and respectful witness in today’s world. 

Rome marked a powerful turning point in the pilgrimage. Praying at the tombs of Saints Peter and Paul, celebrating the Eucharist in historic basilicas, and visiting Tre Fontane, the site of Paul’s martyrdom highlighted the cost of discipleship and the enduring strength of Christian witness. Time spent at the Marist Brothers’ General House was especially significant, connecting me personally with the global Marist family and its long history in Australia. Seeing the statue of Saint Marcellin Champagnat within the Vatican was a moment of deep pride and gratitude, reinforcing my commitment to Marist mission. 

The pilgrimage concluded in France at Notre Dame de l’Hermitage, the spiritual heart of the Marist story. Visiting La Valla, Marlhes, Le Puy‑en‑Velay, and Fourvière allowed me to step into the world of Saint Marcellin Champagnat and the early brothers. Celebrating the Eucharist at Champagnat’s table and walking the same paths he once walked made the Marist values of family spirit, simplicity, presence, and love of Mary tangible and real. 

I returned from this pilgrimage renewed in faith and inspired in mission. The friendships formed, the stories shared, and the encounters with sacred places continue to shape my leadership. The Marist Pilgrimage 2025 strengthened my resolve to bring Christ to life within our College community and to ensure that the Marist charism remains a living, hopeful presence for future generations. 

James Mazzolini
Director of Mission