Casa Maria Marianists

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The brothers of Casa María spent a weekend on retreat at Tecaboca in Mountain Home, Texas, from Friday, December 20 to Sunday, December 22, 2013. Community-building efforts included a reflective “check-in” to share personal highlights of the semester, a viewing of the movie, The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, and a discussion of the film as part of the Province’s renewal program.

Aspirants Eric, Joseph and Justin attended the 13th annual fall commencement of St. Mary’s University held on Saturday, December 14, 2013. As Marianists, they were seated in the VIP section and recognized during the ceremony.

“Members of the Society of Mary, you’ve taught each of us about the Marianist mission of education, a mission of excellence, of service, of community and of faith. Please stand and receive our very deep gratitude,” said President Tom Mengler as he recognized the group during the ceremony.

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Nearly 50 students, faculty, staff and friends of the Marianists celebrated the final Casa Tuesday of the fall 2013 semester on Dec. 10. The evening began with an evening prayer that commemorated Saint Juan Diego (Dec. 9) and Our Lady of Guadalupe (Dec. 12), followed by a special blessing of graduates who will receive their degrees on Saturday. The celebration concluded with a pasta-themed supper and special desserts—graduation red velvet cake and gum drop cookies. Casa Tuesdays will resume next semester with a back-to-school edition on Tuesday, January 14, 2014.

Brothers from the Casa María Marianist Community made an annual visit to Devine Acres Farm to harvest a fresh tree for Christmas on Saturday, December, 7, 2013.

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There is light at the end of the tunnel!!! With one more week to go until final exams, a large group of St. Mary’s students gathered at Casa Maria for a quick break from the books to welcome the Advent season with the Marianists and guests.

On display was an Advent wreath, with one candle that had already been lit, to remind all that Jesus is the Light of the World.

Following prayers, everyone feasted on turkey soup and turkey sandwiches. Thematic desserts included Advent wreath cupcakes and corn flake treats.

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For the first time in four years, Casa Maria hosted the Thanksgiving meal. Nearly 30 gathered for the 2:15 p.m. dinner which included the Marianist Sisters, family members, an international Marianist guest and the Stoiber family from Michigan.

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Nearly 40 StMU students, staff, Marianists and guests “gobble gobbled” up the Thanksgiving treats at this week’s Casa Tuesday. After giving thanks during the prayer session, sharing announcements about campus activities, feasting on chicken nuggets, fries and salad, everyone was grateful for being able to indulge in the bounty of the fabulous fall flavors of Oreo turkey cookies and mini pumpkin cheesecakes.