Brother Thomas F. Giardino, SM, asks this core question about Marianist identity for today, yet his query traces back to motivational factors that first gave rise to the Marianist movement. Using the images of salt and light and exploring Chaminade’s principles of organizational attraction, Brother Tom reminds us that a critical mass of people is needed to ensure a transformative nature (and not just a transactional relationship) in a Marianist community or organization today.

In this reflection, Thomas Schroer, SM, explores how embracing God’s maternal and compassionate nature allows believers to move beyond seeing Mary strictly as an intercessor. Drawing on Vatican II's vision of Mary as a fellow member of the Church, he invites us to welcome her instead as a trusted spiritual mentor and "older sister" who prays right alongside us. By praying with Mary for the Holy Spirit, we can cultivate her deep trust and joy, helping us bring Christ's presence into the world today.