Our efforts will be characterized by a genuine desire for unity with all who consider themselves followers of Jesus, so that, according to his prayer, all may believe that the Father has sent him (cf. Jn 17: 21)
(Constitution 6)
Eugene de Mazenod was a man who knew only the theological ideas of his time. In the 19th century the concept of ecumenism was unheard of. Yvon Beaudoin writes about “Bishop de Mazenod as a theologian. On this point, Father Rey wrote accurately that the bishop of Marseille was ‘uncompromising on principles, unshakeable in his religious convictions.’ His first deep conviction was that the “only true worship,” “the only true religion,” “true Christianity,” and Truth exist only in the Catholic Church…
After judging with great severity the heresy and errors in which Protestants live, it is surprising to find here and there in the writings of Bishop de Mazenod much more moderate and positive judgments.
Twice he calls Protestants ‘our erring brothers,’ and twice ‘our separated brothers.’ Moreover, he notes that in Protestantism there are ‘souls of the chosen in whom the work of the Holy Spirit and the abundance of grace are manifest’, people who pass into the Catholic Church for ‘the highest reasons’ and who ‘seek the truth with extraordinary eagerness.’” (Vie Oblate Life p.520)
Man of time and context, still have deep faith in God’s grace that leave none.
Each morning as I enter into this place I find myself looking up at a picture of Bishop Eugene in his later years – his hair is longer and whiter than portrayed in his younger years.. There are hints that he is much more than simply “uncompromising on principles” and “unshakeable religious convictions”. The persistent love that he received from God without measurement.
I dare to recognize that softening within my Oblate brothers sisters and friends. Eugene who also is my Founder dares to share his charism with not just the religious, but with all who have found a way home to God, through, with and in our beautiful Oblate Charismatic Family.
I recognize how each and every Constitution and Rule are enhanced with the others, helping to carry others and to become as small signpost of light to others that we join in a pilgrimage. At this moment I also recognize that I am like the clay being touched by the Master Potter, who continues to reshape and mend our brokenness and weakened spots. I sit with the image of the hands lovingly shaping and reshaping us in the most munificent of ways and lavished with love.
At first he approved of Canada’s Catholics burning of the Protestant Bible. Then he advised his Oblates there to stop this practice.
Thank God Harry. Each day I learn a little bit more – such blessings for all of us.