Marist Brothers Mark 209 Years of Faith, Education, and Service

January 2, 2026 — The Marist community around the world commemorates today the 209th anniversary of the founding of the Institute of the Marist Brothers, established on January 2, 1817 by Saint Marcellin Champagnat.

Moved by the harsh realities he witnessed among children and young people deprived of education and faith formation, Fr. Champagnat responded with a simple yet radical conviction: “We need brothers!” With this vision, he began the Congregation of the Little Brothers of Mary with two young recruits, dedicating their mission to the education and Christian formation of the poor, especially in rural areas.

Ordained a priest in 1816, Champagnat’s pastoral work exposed him to widespread ignorance caused by poverty and lack of teachers. Believing that “a good education is the surest way to form good citizens,” he founded an institute that could provide quality education at low cost, particularly where other institutions could not reach.

Inspired by his own struggles in learning and his deep Marian devotion rooted in the Society of Mary, Champagnat envisioned Brothers who would teach catechism, assist missionaries, and conduct schools. Though not originally included in the Society’s plans, the Teaching Brothers became his personal mission—one he carried out with unwavering faith and determination.

More than two centuries later, the Marist Brothers continue to uphold Champagnat’s legacy, serving children and young people through education, evangelization, and compassionate presence, faithful to their founding call: to make Jesus known and loved, in the way of Mary.