Founder-to-founder, Eugene continues his reflections to Forbin-Janson on some aspects of preaching missions. Here he speaks about the important role of the crucifix during missions. Like the Redemptorists, the Missionaries of France used it only when preaching missions. For the Missionaries of Provence, Eugene saw it as a permanent part of their dress and was to stress that it would be the only distinguishing sign.<\/p>\n
\nWhile on this subject, I take the liberty of telling you that you would have done well to adopt the use of the crucifix, at least during the conducting of your missions. You would hardly believe the effect it produces and how useful it is. People accustomed to ecclesiastical dress are little impressed; but the crucifix to them is awesome. How often have I seen, even amongst libertines <\/strong>[ed. persons with no moral principles<\/em>], some who, when they see it, cannot help removing their hats.<\/strong><\/h5>\n
It gives a decided authority; it distinguishes the missionaries from other priests; and that indeed is good because the missionary should be regarded as an extraordinary man.<\/strong><\/h5>\n
It is useful to the priest in the confessional and, on the day of absolution, it helps the penitent, in whose hands we place it, to conceive sorrow for his sins, to detest them and even to weep because of them. 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.<\/strong><\/h5>\n<\/blockquote>\n
Letter to Forbin Janson, 9 October 1816, O.W. VI n. 14<\/em><\/p>\n
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Founder-to-founder, Eugene continues his reflections to Forbin-Janson on some aspects of preaching missions. Here he speaks about the important role of the crucifix during missions. Like the Redemptorists, the Missionaries of France used it only when preaching missions. For the … Continue reading