TELL THEM THAT I THINK OF THEM AND THAT I LOVE THEM

Eugene and his Oblates have always been characterised as being close to the people. The Oblate Rule of life expresses it thus:

Our communities seek to radiate the warmth of the Gospel to those around us
                                                          (Constitution 41).

The secret behind this pastoral attitude is found in the closeness that he wanted to see lived in his own community. It is the warmth of the Gospel that was expressed in every aspect of the lives of the community. Eugene’s attitude of affection and concern for their physical and spiritual welfare was then reflected outside in their missionary relationships:

 I call attention to your health and to that of the whole of our dear family. Observe indispositions from the moment they begin. Watch out for the lungs of our young men. Give me news of each one in particular. Let them get lots of rest; be willing to let them remain an extra hour in bed. During vacations, when they no longer have the daily exercise of going to and from the seminary, have them go for a walk two or even three times a week if necessary but do not allow them to go until the sun is declining; the midday heat will be more harmful to them than useful.
But after having cared for their bodies, see that they do not neglect their souls. Let fervour be sustained, interior life, love of abnegation, of mortification, solitude, assiduity for study. All that is necessary.
Tell them they are ever before my eyes, that I think of them, that I love them.

Letter to Henri Tempier, 26 July 1817, O.W. VI n. 18

It is the superior of the community who is saying: “Tell them they are ever before my eyes, that I think of them, that I love them.” How revolutionary and life-giving it would be today if every person in authority were able to say the same thing to the members of the community entrusted to his care. Imagine the renewed heart, the renewed spirit and the renewed mission that would result!

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1 Response to TELL THEM THAT I THINK OF THEM AND THAT I LOVE THEM

  1. Eleanor Rabnett, Associate Oblate says:

    One of the very first things about St. Eugene that resonated within me was his freedom to speak freely of not only his incredible love of God, and God’s love for him – but also his freedom to share that love with all those around him, his Oblate family as well as the many he ministered to. And even though St. Eugene came along long before I did, I could relate to him and learn from him. I even dared to ask him to help me daily in how I loved. It is something for all peoples – not just those in charge. I think that if we, each of us, loves with that same freedom and openness as shown and lived by St. Eugene, we shall each help to free up the other. And as we become leaders in whatever capacity we will continue then to affirm and love all those around us.

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