200 YEARS AGO: A QUANTUM LEAP FOR THE MAZENODIAN FAMILY

Two and a half years after the foundation of the Missionaries, this seemingly insignificant letter, written by St Eugene, signaled an explosion in their life and a new direction.

The letter was written in response to an invitation from the Vicar General of the Diocese of Digne. He had asked the Missionaries of Provence to take over the shrine of Notre Dame du Laus, some 150 kilometers from Aix, and to make it a center of pilgrimage and of missionary activity.

I have no other desire than to do a little good; thus, if you think that the plan you have thought of might gain some glory for God and contribute to the salvation of souls, I am totally disposed to offer myself for all the arrangements which are compatible with my commitments in this diocese and the duties of my position in our little Society.

Letter to M. Arbaud, Vicar General, 23 August 1818, EO XIII, n 16

The result of Eugene’s letter of acceptance was to be that:
          this tiny group of Missionaries realized that their future was not limited to only one house in Aix en Provence – as had been their original intention. It would eventually open the way to a world-wide expansion;
          this group of diocesan priests were to change their status and to become a group of religious priests and brothers with vows;
          they would produce their first comprehensive Rule of Life as religious;
          they understood that the care of Marian sanctuaries was part of their missionary charism.

What the Missionary Oblates and the Mazenodian Family are today is the fruit of this decision.

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2 Responses to 200 YEARS AGO: A QUANTUM LEAP FOR THE MAZENODIAN FAMILY

  1. Eleanor Rabnett, Oblate Associate says:

    There is a very real and incredible “humility” that is pervasive throughout, that appears to shine on today’s reflection.

    “…might gain some glory for God and contribute to the salvation of souls … to offer myself for all the arrangements which are compatible … the duties of my position in our little Society”. Humility – Oblation – profound Love – we – we are some of the fruits of Eugene’s acceptance and decisions, of his ‘step-by-step’ response to God’s invitation.

    It is a little like looking at the facets of a diamond – beauty too great to describe – it can only be experienced.

    I recognize Eugene’s devotion to Mary – the Spirit bringing it to bloom.

    All this – begun for the “glory for God”. More than just holy or pious words – the real thing. I am reminded of the words that Eugene spoke as he was dying; of his joy and gratitude that God chose him to found the Oblate Congregation. Oblation – love moving forward – openness to the will of God and this carried by his sons – giving, sharing, love moving forward – the Mazenodian Family. Who we all are – fruits of Eugene’s decision and love.

    My heart – filled with joy, pride, immense love, gratitude, humility – to full to capture all that we are given.

    The ‘explosion in their life and a new direction’ continues today. We are being led and something is emerging with our steps, perhaps the beginnings of the fruits that will continue to come. An ‘advent’.

  2. Don Marx says:

    St. Eugene’s example to his Missionaries has always connected with the young fellows for whom it was intended..Here in the Southern California area, the Oblates have continued to accept the tough assignments and they do so.willingly…I have been blessed to be in a parish staffed by Oblates since 1922..The numbers do dwindle.
    I challenge myself and all Oblate.friends to.join with me I prayer for Oblate vocations…Salve Regina !

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