Continuing his reflections on the missionary crucifix, Eugene scolds Forbin Janson for having been influenced by those who criticised the open use of the crucifix.
It is necessary because what we have experienced has at all times been acknowledged in other Catholic countries, where all missionaries carry it as a sign of authority for their missions etc.
I cannot imagine how you have been prevented by the feeble reasons that those who think you should not carry it have given. This to me is an act of weakness, a shameful tribute that you are willing to give to the philosophy of a small number of persons whose antipathy you should have scorned.
It would seem that you are fearful of taking part in the folly of the cross. What shall I say to you? I blame this human prudence. You must be more openly a Christian, a priest and an apostle than you have been in this circumstance. You know that I speak my thoughts frankly. But only to you do I say this. It is not a matter for excuses.
Letter to Forbin Janson, 9 October 1816, O.W. VI n. 14
Wow – don’t hold back there Eugene! I am not being irreverent of Eugene but only smiling and speaking as one friend might to another friend. I can only imagine that each in his own way was very zealous, very passionate in their love of God, the Church and those to whom they were sent.
I think of Dali’s painting of Jesus on the cross – not hanging his head in shame or weakness, but rather to look upon all of us with love: a so powerful that it reaches in to touch the very depths of our being, similar I suppose as happened to Eugene and his experience of Jesus on cross when “his eyes met mine”… It coloured who Eugene was throughout his entire life, even though he did not share that until some years later.
Perhaps Eugene as he writes to Forbin Janson wants only for his friend to be touched and to live in the same light that he has experienced. We have all seen how Eugene not only reacted, but also how he responded from his experience of God and how important it was for him to see (and be) through the eyes of our crucified Saviour.
I am reminded of one of his sons, Mario Borzaga OMI who was always filled the sweetness of joy. So great was it that as he approached his own death he knew what it was to hang on the cross alongside his Saviour. Mario was equally passionate because of his experience of God.
I truly believe this is how we are all called to live as members of the Mazenodian Oblate Family – together as pilgrims of hope in communion. Not as smouldering wicks but rather burning fiercely, passionately, collectively sharing our experiences of God. Just as Eugene did with Forbin Janson.