EITHER BE WORTHY OR WITHDRAW

Writing to the Novice Master, Fr. Vincens, Eugene spoke about the decision to ask one of the candidates to end his formation process.

The same council recognized that Brother Martin was not suitable to the Congregation. His independent spirit was never able to bend to the requirements of the Rule. He became the focal point of other imperfect candidates like himself; he could not hold his tongue. made judgments on everything, criticized everyone and all that was done; in short, he gave no hope that he would ever take on the spirit of our Society. From my point of view, I have taken the decision. It is not at this time when the Lord is sending such great blessings on our little family that I will endure men who are willfully imperfect and totally lacking in virtue.

Either be worthy of a vocation or withdraw.

Eugene then spoke about others who were proving themselves worthy of their vocation

I cannot speak well enough of the two young priests I have just sent to America with Father Lempfrit. They are angels, and the three who are leaving for Ceylon, are real models: Fathers Semeria. Keating. and Ciamin. Even our good Gaspard is improving. You may speak of one and all at the novitiate to encourage the novices’ zeal and holy imitation.

Letter to Fr Ambroise Vincens, 19 October 1847, EO X n 949

REFLECTION

 “My mission of being in the heart of the people is not just a part of my life or a badge I can take off; it is not an “extra” or just another moment in life. Instead, it is something I cannot uproot from my being without destroying my very self. I am a mission on this earth; that is the reason why I am here in this world.” (Pope Francis)

Through our baptism each of us is a mission on this earth, wherever we find ourselves. The brand of the members of the Mazenodian Family is “always close to the people.”