I LOVE THIS DEAR BROTHER TOO MUCH, NOT TO BE MOST KEENLY CONCERNED IN HIS REGARD

Posted on January 23, 2017 by franksantucci
Eugene’s formal instructions to Tempier, as he set out to visit the Oblates were backed up with a personal letter in which he discussed his concerns.

Writing about one of the young Oblates in the formation process we see Eugene’s loving concern for the welfare and growth of the scholastic, but also practical areas where a correction is necessary in order to become a holy missionary.

I advise him to dawdle less in the sacristy, in the tailor’s shop and in the parlour. I do not believe it advantageous for him to be always with his mother who makes him waste a lot of time discussing useless things; once a week would appear to me quite sufficient otherwise let him not think he will ever acquire the spirit of his state.
I love this dear brother too much, who is continually present in my thoughts, not to be most keenly concerned in his regard, obliged as I am to live far from him. I would wish that he study more, as duty demands, inasmuch of course as his state may permit. In a word, insist in all essential matters that he sanctify himself according to his vocation.

Letter to Henri Tempier, 16 July 1829, EO VII n 333

Eugene’s goal for each Oblate: to sanctify himself according to his vocation through everything that he does.
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One Response to I LOVE THIS DEAR BROTHER TOO MUCH, NOT TO BE MOST KEENLY CONCERNED IN HIS REGARD

  1. Eleanor Rabnett, Oblate Associate says:
    January 23, 2017 at 12:27

    I see Eugene acting as does a parent, a manager and a boss, as a mentor or a coach, as a friend, as a spiritual director and as a teacher. He wants the best for those he loves. Are we any different with those we love?

    As I sit and reflect there are a few faces from my life that come to mind, of those who loved me enough that they were like Eugene with me, they notice/d some of my weaknesses and offer/ed suggestions as to how I might turn these into strengths. In truth though I add that it has become much ‘easier’ to accept such help and guidance in this the second half of my life where I am not so busy trying to find or prove myself.

    Frank’s statement of “Eugene’s goal for each Oblate: to sanctify himself according to his vocation through everything he does” speaks loudly to me, touches me deeply for this has been my own experience of St. Eugene and his invitation to me to share in his charism and a most particular way of life, in the life that God has called me to live. None of it is separate or exclusive of the other.

    This morning I feel as if I am where I am supposed to be on my journey – I have not reached the end but today –in the present moment I am where exactly where I should be. For that I give thanks.

    Reply

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