The practice of “oraison” that was important for Eugene is illustrated in this beautiful text:
We should often come together like this, in Jesus Christ, our common center where all our hearts become as one and our affections are brought to fulfilment.
Although physically separated from his Oblate brothers, Eugene always practiced the prayer of “oraison” – of being united with them in the Eucharistic presence of Jesus Christ. Each day when he prayed in his chapel, he was united with his brothers, wherever they were.
Dear friends, this is my bouquet for this beautiful feast day.
Letter to Jean Baptiste Mille and to the Fathers and Brothers at Billens, 1 November 1831, EO VIII n 406
What a beautiful tradition Eugene has left us! We can be present with our loved ones in the presence of Jesus who makes us one, despite geographical distance. This is the true meaning of Eugene’s “oraison.”
This morning I awoke thinking of all that took place yesterday here at convocation; of the immensity of blessings and joy that is here with us as we come together, to work, eat, relax and pray. To renew friendships that have not lessened but which have been carried in our hearts.
My heart is particularly full this morning – with many ways of feeling and being. We have here set up a small chapel – and there are times when we have the Blessed Sacrament there so that we can just sit and be. Awaking today I felt the need to find some time to go and be there – to be with God in this way and yet to be there with others – held – one heart with others and yet still distinct. I thought of Jesus in the garden asking the three if they could not be with him – they were and they were not. This was not anything they could do for him but he wanted them there with him.
One small step after another today and in the coming days, weeks, perhaps months and years – however long it takes. My life is not empty and the journey is not in a straight line – who knows what is to come. I shall concentrate on the small steps – one at a time. I will somehow make the time to go and sit and be in the chapel. I want to be present with my loved ones as I rest/relax in the presence of Jesus.
Such an immense give to enter into this space and to be greeted with the sentiments that my own heart yearns for. The whispers of the Spirit within and through.