ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY YEARS AGO: 21 MAY 1861

When Father Fabre wrote to the Congregation to announce the death of Eugene, he described this conversation which had taken place the day before his death:

Eugene at his death

Bishop, one of us asked him, give us some words to pass on to all our brothers. It will make them very happy!

Be sure to tell them that I die happy… that I die happy that God was so good as to choose me to found the Congregation of the Oblates in the Church.

Bishop, would you reveal to us the last wish in your heart.

Practice among yourselves charity … charity…. charity… and outside, zeal for the salvation of souls.

Circular letter of Father Fabre, 1861

 

 

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1 Response to ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY YEARS AGO: 21 MAY 1861

  1. Eleanor Rabnett, Lay Oblate says:

    Today, 162 years after Eugene’s death, we celebrate his Feast Day as well as the Ascension of Jesus into heaven. It is fitting since Eugene gave his life to God through his oblation, so as to share the Good News to those who were left untouched by the structures of the Church.

    “While committing ourselves to all the works of zeal which priestly charity can inspire – above all, the work of the missions, which is the main reason for our union – we priests, through our baptism, joined as part of this Mazenodian Oblate family resolve to obey and live the spirit of the following Constitutions and Rules; by living them we hope to obtain all the benefits we need for our own sanctification and for the salvation of souls.” (paraphrasing from The Preface).

    Perhaps not our traditional day of renewing our vows and commitments but I am not able to think of a better way to celebrate your Feast Day with all of this congregation and family that you founded with a view to sharing your spirit and heart with the world.

    St. Eugene de Mazenod, Founder, Father, Friend… pray for us.

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