The six missionaries who were on their way to establish the first Oblate mission in Canada were human and certainly not perfect. Eugene, as the father of this family, was aware of this and gives them advice on how to live as a united religious family.<\/p>\n
Be of one mind; put up with each other. Even though something be not to your liking, take care not to grumble. Communicate the observations that you believe useful, but mildly, not contentiously or bitterly. If they are not adopted, keep your peace and do not swerve from obedience.<\/strong><\/p>\n
Never make personal remarks, never be touchy, let there be candour, frankness, simplicity, mildness and especially charity, “everything done in love”.<\/strong><\/p>\n
In case of need, communicate with me confidentially but only after ruminating the matter at the foot of the crucifix, without prejudice, without exaggeration.<\/strong><\/p>\n
We are all members of one body, let each strive by every means and by making sacrifices, if he must, for the well-being of this body and the growth of all its potential.<\/strong><\/p>\n
I do not know why I remind you of these things. I am quite aware of the fine spirit which animates you. It is just that I enjoy conversing with you about what we hold in common.<\/strong><\/p><\/blockquote>\n
Letter to the first Oblates leaving for Canada, 9 October 1841, EO I n 9<\/em><\/p>\n
Good human and fatherly advice that calls us to a reflection on our own relationships today.<\/p>\n
“See how these Christians love one another and are even ready to die for one another<\/em>.” Tertullian in the 2nd century.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
The six missionaries who were on their way to establish the first Oblate mission in Canada were human and certainly not perfect. Eugene, as the father of this family, was aware of this and gives them advice on how to … Continue reading