Today five members of the Chaminade family made a lifelong commitment and were commissioned as Marianist Lay Affiliates. Kate Beskid ’00, Luis Guerra, April Risteff, Ellen Celaya, and Tom Celaya each participated in a yearlong formation program and discernment.

A ceremony was held at both the Chatsworth and West Hills campus to recognize their commitment to the Marianist Family and the Catholic Church. As Bro. David Betz’s said, “They understand the Marianist tradition of spirituality. They have shared our community life of prayer. They have partaken with the church in the Paschal mysteries and are now ready to deepen their baptismal commitments.”

As Lay Marianists, Beskid, Guerra, Risteff, and the Celayas have made a unique expression of commitment. In the same way vowed Marianists are guided, Lay Affiliates also follow Mary’s examples of trust in God’s promises, openness to God’s action in their lives, and faithful response to God’s call. Their mission, as Ellen Celaya shared is to bring Jesus to others, and to be Jesus to others.

For more information on Lay Affiliates, their mission and role in the Marianist family, please visit the Marianist Province of the United States’ website.