We will always be close to the people with whom we work, taking into account their values and aspirations. To seek out new ways for the Word of God to reach their hearts often calls for daring; to present Gospel demands in all clarity should never intimidate us.
CC&RR. Constitution 8
The first years of Father Eugene’s ministry were primarily dedicated to the youth of Aix en Provence. He loved them with the heart of a father and shared their delight in their Christian journey. Two hundred years later he continues to delight with his Oblate sons as they echo his invitation to today’s young people.
Dear young people united with us around the heart of St. Eugene de Mazenod, we as Oblates realize that this is your time: a time full of amazing changes, where everything seems possible and impossible all at once. Remain with us steadfast in the journey of faith, with firm hope in the Lord and the light of the Holy Spirit. This is the secret of our journey together! It is the Lord that gives us the courage to swim against the tides of relativism, materialism and individualism in today’s world. Listening to the examples of the life of St. Eugene, pay attention to go against these currents. Like the young people who gathered around the Oblates’ Founder in the Youth Congregation, commit yourselves to great ideals, to the most important things Christ gives us. We Oblates promise to help you in this task, but ask you to walk with us.
Carry with you the flame of Christ’s love that burnt in the heart of St. Eugene de Mazenod for the entire world – in every sphere of your daily life and to the very ends of the earth.
The participants of the Second International Oblate Congress on Mission with Youth.
“A Christian is one who is invited… to join in the feast, to the joy of being saved, to the joy of being redeemed, to the joy of sharing life with Christ. This is a joy! You are called to a party!” Pope Francis
I do not know if I am here with new eyes to see, new ears to hear, and perhaps with a new heart that is being touched; but this morning as I read and take in this letter written to the youth of our world I feel like I am catching a glimpse of something that is 200 years old and brand new at the same time. My being wants to shout out with a WOW and a YES in the same breath. A new fire is burning!
Here is a letter filled with the spirit of St. Eugene – a letter of love to be proclaimed and read to all. A letter to be copied and given to every young person who passes through our doors (and also to those who are older).
This is a snapshot of the Oblate heart as it beats with love. I think of how the numbers here in North America are diminishing, our Oblates are getting older just as the need seems to be getting so much greater. This letter relights a fire in my heart and I can’t help but wonder what would be the result if more young people were to hear it read aloud and said with passion.
It is a letter that can speak to all, not just the youth, but to all. This speaks to the heart of the Mazenodian Family. What an introduction to the world. What an invitation to life!
Thank you Frank for sharing with us this gift, thank you Lord for opening my heart that I might hear it.