Programs for Sabbaticals & Ongoing Formation:

Opportunities continue for Marianists to participate in programs of spiritual renewal in collaboration with the Marist Brothers. These programs are coordinated for Marianists by the International Center for Marianist Formation (ICMF). In the past two years we have had Marianists participate in Spanish/Portuguese-speaking, French-speaking and English-speaking programs. Below are listed the programs presently available for all three languages in 2007. Information for programs in 2008 as well as a fuller description of the courses can be obtained by consulting the ICMF web site: www.icmf.info beginning about 15 October 2006.

In Spanish: For religious between 35-50 years of age: 1 February – 20 June 2007. Place: Marist Spirituality Centre - El Escorial, Madrid, Spain. (3-4 places available.); For religious between ages 50-65 years of age: 2 August – 19 December 2007. Place: Marist Spirituality Centre - El Escorial, Madrid, Spain. (3-4 places available.); For religious between 65-80 years of age: 15 August – 15 October 2007. Place: Marist International Spirituality Centre, Manziana, Italy. (4 places available.)

In French: For religious between 40-59 years of age: 21 January- 21 June 2007. Place: Marist International Spirituality Centre, Manziana, Italy. (4 places available.); For religious between 60-79 years of age: August-October 2007. Place to be determined soon. (3-4 places available.)

In English: For religious between 65 - 80 years of age. From mid October to mid December 2007. Place: Marist International Spirituality Centre, Manziana, Italy. (5-6 places available.)

The aim and the approach for all of the programs are similar with appropriate differences for the various age groups and the cultural sensibilities. The aim is to provide time and resources for reflection, learning and sharing on diverse aspects of our life. The approach involves time for personal and group prayer; conferences and discussion in the mornings; the afternoons are free for personal work and relaxation. There will also be a pilgrimage to the Marianist places of origin (e.g. Saragossa, Bordeaux, Agen, etc.) and cultural opportunities on free days.

If you are interested in this opportunity please contact your Unit Superior or Brother Tom Giardino, SM of the International Center for Marianist Formation for more information. tom.giardino@udayton.edu or consult the ICMF website: www.icmf.info. All participation needs the approval of your Unit Administration.