Entrusted with the ministry of maintaining all the communities functioning in harmony with the founding spirit, Eugene\u2019s role was not always pleasant, especially when human weaknesses got in the way of the common welfare and the superior would have to correct others. It is here that we see Eugene relying heavily for support on Henri Tempier, his first companion and confidant. These two men were brought close by their common love for God, their passion for wanting to bring this saving love to the most abandoned and their love for the Missionaries. It is clear, that like St Paul in his relationships with some of his fellow Gospel workers, there was a deep bond between Eugene and Tempier that was a source of strength to Eugene in his moments of loneliness as a leader.<\/p>\n
\n… As for you, I have nothing to add to what you know of my sentiments in your regard; I love you as much as myself and my confidence in you is such that it would be impossible for me to hide the least of my thoughts from you. I would think I was committing a theft, a crime of l\u00e8se-amiti\u00e9 <\/strong>[ed. a crime committed against friendship]<\/em> for which I could not forgive myself.<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Letter to Henri Tempier, 1 April 1821, EO VI n. 66<\/em><\/p>\n
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“It is better to lead from behind and to put others in front, especially when you celebrate victory when nice things occur. You take the front line when there is danger. Then people will appreciate your leadership.”\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 <\/em>Nelson Mandela<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Entrusted with the ministry of maintaining all the communities functioning in harmony with the founding spirit, Eugene\u2019s role was not always pleasant, especially when human weaknesses got in the way of the common welfare and the superior would have to … Continue reading