The small Oblate congregation had been hit by the loss of two men. The existing missionary commitments had thus to be re-evaluated and decisions made to maintain only those works more in keeping with our charism and vocation.<\/p>\n
\nAs for myself, I humbly confess I am helpless in the face of the decrees of Providence. I had everything arranged, counting on the two men who have been snatched away from me; I must perforce fall back on our remaining resources to meet various sacred commitments, conformable moreover as they are to our vocation. I don\u2019t conceal from myself the fact that many things are suffering in consequence; but I repeat, I\u2019m not the master of events.<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/blockquote>\n
All the Oblates are urged not to lose hope and courage, but to rely in God\u2019s providence and time.<\/p>\n
\nOur duty to all is to do our best, each in his own sphere, with the means that remain to us. These trials should not be beyond our courage. Small wonder when a boat moves along with the wind behind it! The sailors can relax. But when the wind is contrary and the seas are rough, that is the moment for them to jump to work so as to reach land safely. So let\u2019s show patience and be of good courage; don\u2019t let\u2019s allow ourselves to be beaten. How many times have we had the calm after the storm! So let there be no weakness but put a good face on things; men may pass, let us wait on God\u2019s good time.<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Letter to Hippolyte Court\u00e8s, 25 September 1836, EO VIII n 589<\/em><\/p>\n
\u00a0Advice still very pertinent today!<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The small Oblate congregation had been hit by the loss of two men. The existing missionary commitments had thus to be re-evaluated and decisions made to maintain only those works more in keeping with our charism and vocation. As for … Continue reading