Knowing the zeal and generosity of the first group of Oblate missionaries in Canada, Eugene encouraged them to maintain a balance.
Do not let yourselves be overwhelmed by the work which will soon surpass your strength. One must never want to do more than God permits. Plan all things wisely. Above all, always reserve time for study and for your personal sanctification in the interior of your house. That is indispensable.
Letter to Fr. Jean Baptiste Honorat, 26 March 1842, EO I n 10
Each one has to “BE” a person of God who prays and deepens their knowledge and relationship with God. That is indispensable for the success of the ministry, the “DO” of mission.
An invitation to pause in our frenetic world of multi-tasking to examine our own equilibrium
I believe that Eugene is speaking about balance and maintaining that within our lives. While questions ask us who we are, our responses often are a description of what we do, both professionally and in our good works. We measure and define ourselves by what we do and how much we do or do not have.
I am reminded that in meeting St. Eugene and so many members of the Mazenodian Family that I begin to hear and realise, to experience within myself that I love people for who they are, for the size of their hearts and how they share love with their whole beings.
Anything less never quite seems to suffice, or to fill the empty spaces.
I have been reflecting on the Pre-Chapter Questions which have been sent out. The very first question focuses on our identity as Missionary Oblates (and as Oblate Associates) and asks what might impoverish our identity. Our very name says it: oblation, oblatio, oblate. “Oblation expressed in Missionary Discipleship”; who we are and how we experience, express and share ourselves.
It seems that my studies have become a part of me, of who I am, and finally I have words to express who I am becoming. Dear Eugene, I am so grateful for your invitation to walk with you and share in this life and way of being.