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- THE CUSTOM WAS TO ENCOURAGE, NOT TO APPROVE
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“A father’s communication with his many children… that is one of the most agreeable occupations of my life” 1857
In the past month news has flowed out daily from the General Chapter and shared around the world with all members of the Oblate Family. We experienced in real time unprecedented openness and transparency that was not limited to just a few pictures: there were regular ‘chats’, invitations to join them in morning prayer and celebration of the Eucharist, as well as interviews, videos, historical explanations and instructions on the various stages and processes within the Chapter.
The inclusion of laity in the overall family was not limited to the first four days when the lay delegates prepared their report and then presented it to the chapter capitulants. We continued to be a presence in their midst through the Holy Spirit.
We have witnessed the palpable joy that occurs and continues to be present among all of them; not just in prayer but in how they relate to each other and work together. The Holy Spirit flowing between them; that and the joy have been the most precious gifts shared with all of us.
This has given me a new perspective and anticipation of the Acts of the 37th General Chapter which will detail and offer the new colours and taste of the directions we will move with in the coming months and years. Not a changing of the mission itself but a new relevancy which allows us to continue on in the present times and into an unknown future.
Yesterday in an interview with Brothers Harley and John, Harley was explaining his vocation as a Brother as being full and he said: Ministry is whatever God is calling us to do – it’s not the job or work, but our life.” (I hope I got that right Harley.) I do not need to know each person individually (although recognition of many has also been joyous) in order to be a member of this family. I think of the people of God and the communion of saints which we all belong to: it happens as we come together in the heart of Jesus, the one place that is big enough for us to be embraced and held.
This too is what many of the Mazenodian Annals will continue to portray.