Marist Way

Notre Dame Prep, as a Marist-sponsored school, is enlivened by the spirit of the Society of Mary (Marist Fathers and Brothers). We believe that students who attend NDP have been called by a "gracious choice" into the family of Mary. As such, we are committed to helping students live out their lives by thinking, judging, feeling and acting as she did.

Mission

At the heart of our commitment to Catholic education is the Office of Marist Way, a dedicated initiative that shapes our shared values, language, and way of life. The Marist Way serves as a guiding force, channeling resources and tools to not only strengthen our internal Catholic and Marist mission but also to empower lifelong faith development.

We recognize that education extends far beyond the classroom, influencing the individuals, families, and communities connected to Notre Dame Prep. In embracing the Marist Way, we invite all members of our community to follow in the footsteps of Jesus, as Mary did. This call extends beyond mere words; it challenges us to build a community that thinks, feels, judges, and acts in alignment with the compassionate and transformative spirit of Mary. Through this lens, we aim to create an environment where every individual is supported on their unique faith journey.

Students, faculty, parents and alumni are called to maintain a Marist community within Notre Dame Prep by advancing the school’s mission: With God, we help to form Christian People, Upright Citizens, and Academic Scholars. This is accomplished in growth in prayer, community, learning, service  and vocation.

Marist Core Values

The Marist Way core values help all associated with Notre Dame Prep to “be Marist" and live the Marist Way.

As a part of Marist Way formation at Notre Dame, the community explores a theme based in Marist values each year. There are four basic themes each containing virtues to guide us to practice and live out our faith.

Union with God
Any Christian person must first and foremost build a relationship with God through learning to trust in God and tasting God in the riches of daily life. It is in learning to be a community of believers who are of one heart and one mind and understanding that by God’s gracious choice we are called to be part this Marist family, that we are brought to the realization of God’s steadfast love.

Humility
The founder of the Marists, Fr. Jean-Claude Colin spoke frequently to Marists and students that humility (being comfortable in one’s own skin; self-acceptance) is key to becoming a good Christian person, an upright citizen, and an academic scholar. Learning the value of simplicity, being hidden and unknown, saying no to greed, power and pride directs our thoughts and actions in a way the aligns with Mary while in Nazareth.

Ardent Love of Neighbor
A Marist Way of life is always oriented toward love of neighbor. We learn from the early church how to be instruments of God’s mercy, through hospitality and inclusiveness.

Doing the Work of Mary
Marists learn from Mary how to be a disciple of Christ, looking to do what others cannot or would not do, with a missionary outlook and Marian face.