The early biographer, Rey, had this to say of the mission in Rognac: \u201cit was plagued by bad weather, the rain continued for almost the entire time of the religious exercises. No one was waiting for the missionaries, the mission wasn\u2019t prepared, the diocesan administration had imposed it on the parish. The setting up took place in conditions that tested the faith, patience, and dedication of God\u2019s missionaries.\u201d (Rey I p.240)<\/p>\n
\nBut here it is really painful. They tell us that our arrival caused terror in the whole district. I believe, however, that this is only the word of a few, a very small number, who no doubt judge the opinion of others by their own feelings. We will not delay to get more information on this.<\/h5>\n
We are neglecting nothing, we try to offer to God whatever is painful about our stay in this area, for the conversion of the people. I assure you that, to encourage and support myself, I often have to remind myself that Blessed Leonard was sent on a mission to save only one soul and that St. Francis de Sales, when preaching to only three people, converted one who was to deny the faith the very next day.<\/h5>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Letter from Henri Tempier to Eugene de Mazenod, 16 November 1819, Oblate Writings II.2, n. 20<\/em><\/p>\n
\u00a0Eugene animated them as he\u00a0responded:<\/p>\n
\n\u00a0Why so discouraged, dear friend, why the complaints? You do not realize enough all the advantages of your position. You naturally suffer, so much the better. Besides you are only beginning, you were not expected, you arrived when work is in full swing, people are caught up. Pray, preach, knock on the door, do not be discouraged…<\/strong><\/h5>\n
I have seen people of the region who have told me that practically everybody goes to your instructions; you must therefore appeal to God to make your words penetrate into hearts that are hardened but still accessible to holy truths.<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/blockquote>\n
\u00a0Letter to Henri Tempier, 22 November 1819, O.W. VI n.48<\/em><\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Successful people are always looking for opportunities to help others. Unsuccessful people are always asking, “What’s in it for me?”\u00a0\u00a0 <\/em>Brian Tracy<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The early biographer, Rey, had this to say of the mission in Rognac: \u201cit was plagued by bad weather, the rain continued for almost the entire time of the religious exercises. No one was waiting for the missionaries, the mission … Continue reading