Marist Family Reflects on Social Justice

Signs of Hope on the Edge: Serving Homeless People with Mental Ill Health

On 8 November, the Marist Family Justice Group hosted a Reflection Afternoon at Hunters Hill, bringing together members from the five branches of the Marist Family — Fathers, Brothers, Sisters, Missionary Sisters, and Laity — to reflect on the Australian Catholic Bishops’ 2025–2026 Social Justice Statement, Signs of Hope on the Edge: Serving Homeless People with Mental Ill Health.

The gathering began with an acknowledgment of the First Nations people, followed by the prayer Pilgrims of Hope. Sr Judith Lythall sm offered an insightful reflection on the Statement’s key themes, and participants viewed the TED Talk Forest Hermit to Professor: It’s Never Too Late to Change by Dr Gregory P. Smith — a powerful story of homelessness, mental illness and renewal.

Small group conversations provided time for sharing personal experiences and insights, and the afternoon concluded with a relaxed tea and plenty of lively discussion.

The gathering was a gentle reminder that the Marist spirit calls us to live with open hearts — noticing, listening, and walking alongside those on the edge.