The Source and the Stream

Saint Marcellin Champagnat and Venerable Brother François

THE SOURCE

AND THE STREAM WORD OF INTRODUCTION

The Source and the Stream is a kind of parallel between our Founder, Marcellin Champagnat (the source), and Brother François who was to be his first successor, “his living portrait”. Our Congregation, under Brother François, experienced an astonishing growth: the source became the stream. Father Champagnat and Brother François lived the same story, the same beginnings, shared the same ideal, the same charism, the same journey towards holiness.These pages focus on these two people together so that the Brothers may grow in their affection, enthusiasm and gratitude for them. Though they were two entirely different personalities, they worked together as closely as possible. Holiness is first of all the work of the Spirit who marks each person with patience and intelligence; it is also one’s heart and life being overcome by the power of the resurrec- tion of the Lord. But Marcellin and François clearly demonstrate that you can journey towards God using your own natural, different gifts. The style is meant to be light consisting of summaries and short texts. Perhaps these pages can strengthen in our family the custom of ex- tending to our first Brothers and to all the Brothers who have pre- ceded us that same spontaneous and strong affection that we show our Father and Founder, Marcellin Champagnat. Pride in our origins consolidates the present day Marist identity. TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS SAINT MARCELLIN CHAMPAGNAT VENERABLE BROTHER FRANÇOIS

Among the blessings deriving from his family, Among the blessings deriving from his family, an exceptional father ...... 6 an exceptional mother ...... 7 Difficulties in his personal growth ...... 10 A precocious child ...... 11 Taking on responsibilities ...... 14 Responsibility laid upon youthful shoulders ...... 15 1826: When illness creates a void ...... 18 1826:The time when the friend makes his commitment . . .19 Two friends along life’s journey ...... 22 The disciple honors the master ...... 23 What Marcellin offers us ...... 26 What François bequeaths to us ...... 27 The gifts are different ...... 30 But it is the same Spirit ...... 31 Basking in God’s sunshine ...... 34 A prolonged intimacy with God ...... 35 Jesus, the center of his life ...... 38 On his countenance, the radiance of the Eucharist ...... 39 Mary, Our Good Mother ...... 42 Special child of Mary ...... 43 I live only for you ...... 46 I have always loved all of you tenderly ...... 47 Joy ...... 50 Joy ...... 51 Love the students ...... 54 And tell them of your affection ...... 55 Death: June 6, 1840 ...... 58 Resignation: 1860 ...... 59 If we consider the differences ...... 62 The Spirit is the One who fashions the saints ...... 63 We will have our meal together ...... 66 Take an axe...... 67 A letter ...... 68 A letter ...... 69 An enthusiastic and practical man ...... 72 The decree concerning the heroicity of his virtues ...... 73 Prayer of a disciple ...... 74 A Brother’s prayer ...... 75 Marcellin Champagnat: the key events of his life ...... 76 Gabriel Rivat :The key events of his life ...... 77 Prayer for the Beatification of Brother François ...... 78 Prayer for vocations ...... 79

4 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 5 AMONG THE BLESSINGS DERIVING FROM AMONG THE BLESSINGS DERIVING FROM SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT HIS FAMILY,AN EXCEPTIONAL FATHER HIS FAMILY,AN EXCEPTIONAL MOTHER BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. The Champagnat family, who lived l. In the hamlet of Maisonnettes, parish of La Valla, the at Rosey,near Marlhes, are a fam- Rivats are above all a farming family. ily of farmers and small entre- preneurs. 2. Of the father,JeanBaptiste Rivat, very little is known.

2.. Marcellin’s father, Jean Bap- 3. Françoise Boiron, the mother, is an exemplar of tiste, is an impressive man, Christian motherhood. She will deeply influence possessing a certain level of young Gabriel by her devotion to Mary: she conse- culture. He is involved with crates her young son to Mary when he is five years the ferment occurring in so- old. Mrs. Rivat is also drawn towards a freely-cho- ciety and favors the ideals of sen way of mortification: she wears a disciplinary the French Revolution. “His father was a man of cord around her waist. Despite being paralyzed for sound judgment, very well educated for the time many years, she will remain in a peaceful disposition and region where he lived; his character cautious saying,“Heaven is the place where we must go.” and understanding, made him a good mediator when there were disagreements among the townspeople.” 4. In the Rivat home there will be seven children, four boys and three girls. Gabriel is the youngest child. 3. Marcellin’s mother, Marie Thérèse Chirat, is the one For Marcellin who forms Marcellin’s heart. She supports him, par- 5. Although not of robust health, the Rivats are Quotation Champagnat are taken quotations ticularly in his most difficult moments. Marie marked by a longevity greater than that of the from the are taken Thérèse is a strong woman, of deep piety, and great- Champagnat family. Several of the Rivats live more book Frère from the life François, written by ly devoted to the Blessed Virgin. She is a woman of than seventy years, like Françoise, the mother, and Gabriel Br.Jean Baptiste sound judgment. her son Gabriel. (Medicine had made some ad- Rivat: Furet, Rome, La joie 1989. vances; the era is one generation later than the d’être Frère, 4. Jean Baptist and Marie-Thérèse will have ten chil- Champagnats.) Rome, December dren, five boys and five girls; Marellin is the second 2003. youngest child. 6. Gabriel is born on March 12, 1808. His mother’s image will be very clearly seen in him, perhaps also the 5. In the religious formation of Marcellin, a paternal discretion of his father. aunt, Louise, a Sister of Saint Joseph, will be of great help to the mother within the family setting. 7. With the accession of Napoleon to power, French 6. Marcellin was born on May 20, 1789. In him we shall society no longer experiences the horrors of the

6 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 7 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

see reflected his father’sense of social action, per- Revolution. On the other hand, Emperor Napoleon sonal relations and practical skills; we shall see too is constantly at war, and so there is a need to have Marcellin’s mother with her strength and piety. many young men under the flag. Two of Brother François’ brothers are called to military service. 7. France is headed into the tragic Revolutionary period, although the turmoil which marks Paris reaches the country regions in a mitigated form. “Brother François eventually identified himself so completely with Father Champagnat that the Broth- Brother Paul Sester offers the following reflection af- ers no longer made any difference between the two ter reading the preceding section:“To draw up a par- men. When Brother François spoke or wrote, it was allel account of the two men it would rather be the Father Champagnat who spoke or wrote.” (Brother case of presenting that which makes them different Pierre Zind, Brother Francois’ Spiritual Counsels, rather than that which they have in common. Father p. 20). Champagnat and Brother François are two diverse personalities with two kinds of holiness. Producing a work like this is not easy.”

We look to Marcellin, as a child looks to his father, and we learn essential values from him. In him we see: A man of faith living in the presence of God who saw the world through God’s eyes.A man passionate about Jesus and Mary.A man of prayer.A pilgrim in faith.A heart full of passion for God. (Document of the 20th General Chapter, n° 15)

8 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 9 DIFFICULTIES IN HIS A PRECOCIOUS SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT PERSONAL GROWTH CHILD BROTHER FRANÇOIS

l. Marcellin will not succeed in 1. When he was eight years old, François is one of the his studies. After seeing the children who attends the catechism lessons of La teacher give a slap on the Valla’s young vicar and the lessons given by the first face to one of his class- lay teacher whom Fr. Champagnat hired. Marcellin mates, Marcellin decides to had arrived at the parish on August 12, 1816. drop out of school.The decision When her son is ten years old, Mrs. Rivat confides is firm. “Born in the canton of Saint- him to Father Champagnat. François becomes the Genest-Malifaux (Loire), I knew, from sixth Brother in the new congregation. my own endless difficulties in learning to read and write, the pressing need to es- 2. Marcellin gives him Latin lessons, since he knows al- tablish a Society which could bring to ready how to read and write. He has a priest- country children the solid education that the brother, a fact that might suggest that the Rivat fam- Brothers of the Christian Schools were providing in ily was open to culture. the cities” (534). François is drawn to intellectual 2. At fifteen years of age, Marcellin returned to studies work. At the time in order to get ready for entrance to the minor of his Hermitage seminary: it was difficult. He had to have great will stay in 1826, power and to do lots of work in order to keep up François demon- his studies at the seminary. At the end of the first strated a keen in- year, he was advised not to return, advice probably tellectual curiosity given as consequence of weak school reports. He and he acquired a stays up at night to study. good grounding in literature, mathe- 3. On the other hand, at the family farm with his father, matics, natural sci- Marcellin learns a great many practical skills: mason- ence, Bible history. ry, carpentry, mill-work and, with his flock of sheep, a sense of money. All through his life, Marcellin will 3. He will show him- find manual work an easy thing for him to do. self outstanding in two fields 4. For Marcellin, practical matters normally prevail – medicine, a field over theoretical ones. His intelligence, judgment, in which he stays

10 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 11 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

and inter-personal skills are down to earth, creating quite up to date. François will be a gifted infirmarian atmosphere of ease with those around him. an all his life. It is one of the ways in which he can draw close to his confreres. – being a kind of spiritual gourmand: from the writ- ings of the saints, he gathers many sayings which he copies into his notebooks. His letters reveal an easy script and he writes a great deal. François also gives his attention to the intellectual formation of the Brothers. In 1849 he opens the first scholasticate. We look to Marcellin, as a 4. His reflective nature and his shyness created a cer- child looks to his father, and tain aloofness. All the same he will be a perceptive we learn essential values from Brother devoted to others, as his letters and his him. In him we see: work as infirmarian clearly demonstrate. A father who cares for his Brothers as his own children. A man full of vigour and tenderness, who can radiate joy and a sense of good humour.A heart that is both Surely you must fear paternal and maternal. acquiring that knowledge (Document of the 20th which is self-promoting General Chapter, n° 15) unless you develop at the same time that charity which helps others. (Brother Pierre Zind, Brother Francois’ Spiritual Counsels, p. 74)

12 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 13 TAKING ON RESPONSIBILITY LAID UPON SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT RESPONSIBILITIES YOUTHFUL SHOULDERS BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. Marcellin is 27 1. In light of his youthful ability, François gradually Br.François is first years old when enters into the realm of responsibilities. School designated by he is ordained, director at the age of seventeen, and then, at the title, and when he is eighteen, director of the Hermitage and Master Director General sent as vicar to of Novices; at twenty-eight, secretary and right (from 1839 La Valla, where hand man to Father Champagnat whom he suc- to 1852), since Father he arrives on ceeds on October 12, 1839, at thirty-one years Colin is the August 12, 1816. of age. Superior General of the whole 2. On January 2, 2. Director General, then, from l852 to 1860, Superior Society of 1817, not yet 28 General. He Mary. Later, when years old, he was twenty the two founds the new years at the congregations Congregation of head of an Insti- separate, in 1852, the Little Broth- tute undergoing the Fathers ers of Mary. As rapid growth in on the one hand, and Founder and a world that the Brothers formator, he was becoming on the other, molds men into every more ex- François received the religious educa- acting for edu- title, Superior tors, a charge he cators. He was General. sustains over twenty-four years. also the leader of a Congrega- 3. He brings into existence a type of education based tion now legally on love, on presence, on qualities Marial and mater- recognized and nal. He constructs the Hermitage and punishes the spread over all rock face. of France and He bears the responsibility of being trail-blazer, of beyond its bor- the one who cuts open new pathways; he is a man ders. In Rome of the Spirit, a charismatic figure with his two feet François under- on the ground. takes the first moves in the

14 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 15 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

4. He stays alert to the Holy Spirit and to the signs of process of having the Congregation become on of the times, so that the charism and mission of the pontifical right. new Congregation become clearer and more uni- fied. He sketches out a spirituality for the active re- 3. He soon makes the Hermitage into a holy place for ligious. Marist Brothers, a reliquary of the Founder towards whom he promotes a devotion among the Brothers. 5. Worn out by work and illness, he dies on June 6, 1840 at 51 years of age. 4. He conceives of his responsibility as that of a disciple. He must be, at one and the same time, faithful and creative. He will be a man of solid community structures: the Common Rules, the Constitutions, Rules of Government.To be a “Man of the Rule” is his manner We look to Marcellin, as a child of heeding the Holy Spirit and the signs of the times. looks to his father, and we learn 5. essential values from him. At 52 years of age, François resigns. The tempo at which the Congregation has been developing allows In him we see: one to survise the amount of work that was re- A pastor who listens to and quired of its leader. Marcellin died at 51 years of welcomes people.An apostle with age. At the age of 52, François is exhausted. a heart that burns with the desire to announce the Good News of Jesus.A friend of children You fear, and of young people.An educator you despise thoughts, who can be both understanding words and actions and demanding.A creative that are opposed to chastity . . . and audacious person. A heart of and it should be the same an apostle. (Document of with thoughts, the 20th General Chapter, n° 15) words and actions opposed to your vocation. (Brother Pierre Zind, Brother Francois’ Spiritual Counsels, p. 65)

16 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 17 1826: WHEN ILLNESS CREATES A VOID 1826: THE TIME WHEN THE FRIEND SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT MAKES HIS COMMITMENT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. 1824: François is sixteen years old and is among those who are working on the Hermitage construction site.

2. 1825: François, seventeen years old, becomes Direc- tor at Boulieu. Faced with this new charge, he asks Marcellin to compose a special prayer for him.The founder invites François to entrust everything into the hands of Mary.

3. 1826: François makes his perpetual vows, committing himself fully to the young Congregation. He is eighteen years old, and, at the moment when some are withdrawing 1. 1824: Purchase of the Hermitage property, and, in from the com- May, beginning of construction, an exhausting work munity, he com- which Marcellin brings to a successful conclusion mits himself to amidst many vexing circumstances. it.

2. 1825: In May, the new Congregation moves into the 4. Marcellin calls Hermitage: great deprivation, debts, criticism; Mar- François to the cellin is in danger of being abandoned by those who Hermitage to be usually support him. the Director of both the com- 3. 1826: Marcellin becomes gravely ill after Christmas munity and the 1825. He never fully recovers from the illness. novitiate, and, Courveille works behind the scenes in order to be within a short chosen superior, and, in the course of Marcellin’s ill- time, infirmarian ness, threatens to abandon everything and leave the as well. Fran- Brothers at the mercy of those who are demanding çois becomes payment of money that is owed them. Terraillon, first councilor one of the priests who made the Fourvière Pledge, and replaces

18 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 19 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

leaves the Hermitage. Jean Marie Granjon, the first Marcellin in cases of absence. Brother, leaves the Congregation; and Etienne Roumezy, talented in financial matters, chooses anoth- 5. From now on, François remains with Marcellin at er vocation. Courveille is compelled to leave because the Hermitage. He is as much the man of the Her- of a scandal. mitage as is Marcellin, living there from 1826 to 1858 and from 1860 to 1881, a total of fifty-three 4. So it is that a void is created at the Hermitage: Mar- years. (He resided at Saint-Genis-Laval from 1858 cellin is alone, sick, and in debt. Brother Jean Baptiste to 1860.) François will himself be the living history describes the pitiable state into which the Hermitage of the Hermitage and its saint. community has fallen. Advice given to a Superior 5. Brother Stanislaus, unlettered but sound of judgment Make a special effort to see that there prevails and well esteemed in St.Chamond, becomes Marcellin’s in your institution and particularly among confidant, his nurse, his right arm, helping him to return the Brothers a good spirit, a great devotedness to health. He rekindles the Brothers’ enthusiasm, en- to the Institute, ...a real sense of prayer, abling the Congregation to pass through a difficult stage. and above all: charity, humility, modesty, discretion. Be especially attentive about warding off sadness . . . We look to Marcellin, as a child From time to time, bring to their attention looks to his father, and we learn the following words of our good Founder: essential values from him. "The Cross and hardships are necessarily In him we see: the lot of all those who do God's work, A man ahead of his times. committing themselves in a useful manner A man who includes the whole to the salvation of souls. You see then, that a world in his plans and so prepares person who is afraid of hardships . . . does not missionaries.A man who lives his experience the mystery of the Cross or God's ideals with such intensity that a salvific ways or the road to perfection." lot of others want to be like him Father Champagnat used to say that a superior is obliged to offer his community all and live with him.A heart that of his time, talent, attention, and effort. knows no bounds. (Document of (Brother Pierre Zind, Brother Francois’ the 20th General Chapter, n° 15) Spiritual Counsels, p. 69-70).

20 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 21 TWO FRIENDS ALONG THE DISCIPLE HONORS SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT LIFE’S JOURNEY THE MASTER BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. Marcellin welcomes Gabriel at just ten years of age. 1. François decides to Marcellin will be the master forming the disciple. be a “living portrait of At first, Marcellin leaves Gabriel’s vocational choice Marcellin” and to open, with the possibility that the young disciple, to change nothing in the whom Marcellin gives way things were Latin lessons, choose done during the the priesthood. Founder’s lifetime. He wins the Broth- 2. Very quickly Marcellin ers’ esteem, becomes perceives the qualities a warmer type of that Brother François person, one who gets possesses and demon- closer to them and strates his esteem by expresses his affec- assigning responsibili- tion for them. ties to him. He becomes Marcellin’s sec- 2. He takes notes retary and stands in when the Founder for him in cases of ab- give conferences. He leaves us almost 1500 pages of sence. Later François documentation in which we can discover various as- becomes Marcellin’s pects of our roots and various elements of Mar- successor. cellin’s ideas.

3. Marcellin is the source 3. From 1819 to 1865 François writes spiritual reflec- of the confidence that tions, which reveal to us forty-five years of Marist the Brothers will have Brothers’ religious history. Eleven of the years cov- in Br. François. De- ered by the period in question were a time when lighted when he is the Founder, living with the Brothers, was the elected Director Gen- source of their spirituality. eral, the Founder does not hesitate to say 4. The Circular entitled “The Spirit of Faith,” composed openly to the Broth- from 1848 to 1853, offers a first synthesis of the spir- ers, “The man you ituality that characterizes the young Congregation.

22 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 23 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

have elected will do better than I.” 5. François is a major influence in the devotion that “In La Valla most of the families have an image of Br. Brothers will have for the Founder: “Present your- François hanging in their living room, next to the selves before Fr. Champagnat. You will see that he Venerable Champagnat’s picture. In such families, he arranges all matters with his Ordinary Resource, the is invoked every day”, (from statements of Br. Fran- Blessed Virgin.” cis Borgia, Summarium 611-655).

Clearly, intimacy with Jesus was the destination The whole house of Our Lady of Marcellin of the Hermitage can be Champagnat’s journey considered the Reliquary of faith. of venerable (Circ.A Revolution of Father Champagnat. the Heart, p. 25, 6 June He built it, and he lived 2003, Seán Sammon in it for sixteen years. S.G.). Everything speaks of him, for he had a hand in everything, guided everything. (Brother François, Gabriel Rivat: The joy to be Brother, p. 126)

24 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 25 WHAT MARCELLIN WHAT FRANÇOIS SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT OFFERS US BEQUEATHS TO US BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. Upon his resignation in 1860, François leaves behind: • A Congregation legally recognized (1851) • Five novitiates • The first scholasticate, 1848, at Grange Payre • A new Common Rules, 1852 • The School Guide, 1853 • The Constitutions and the Rules of Government, 1854 • A fourth vow, Stability, 1855 • The first biography of the Founder, the one by Br. Jean Baptiste Furet, 1856 • A new Generalate, Saint-Genis-Laval, 1853-1858 • 2086 Brothers, 379 schools, 50,000 students • The Congregation is present throughout France, in Belgium, England, Scotland; nineteen Brothers 1. At his death in 1840, Marcellin leaves behind him: work in Oceania. • A motherhouse, the Hermitage • The first endeavors are undertaken in Rome, 1858, • A novitiate, the Hermitage for the Congregation to become one of pontifical • A first set of Rules: 1837 right. • 280 Brothers, 48 schools, 7000 students • The Congregation has communities and schools in François created stable structures for the Congregation. the Lyons area as well as in the north of France. Some Brothers are working in the Oceania mis- In regard to Br. François, Br. Pierre Zind has drawn up a sions. comparative chart vis a vis the Brothers of Ploermel, to • Marcellin has made contact with the Brothers of demonstrate Br. François’ activity in regard to the Saint-Paul-Trois-Chateaux, founded by Mazelier. growth of the Marist Brothers:

2. He bequeaths a charism, a mission, a spirit, a new Congregation and a great deal of affection. Even today, the Congregation is marked by a mutuality of affection between Founder and Brothers.

26 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 27 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

3. Marcellin said to Brother Stanislaus,“I tell you ahead of time: after my death things will be much better Year Marist Brothers Brothers of Ploermel than they are now.” 1840 280 395

1860* 2086 935 * Year when Br. François resigned. * Year when Jean Marie de La Mennais, the Founder of the Ploermel brothers, dies.

Marcellin’s spirituality was also eminently transparent. Brother François said openly,“I wish to be a living por- Simplicity was the quality that trait of the Founder,” a statement that translates into: a characterised the man.The government which, at first, makes no changes in the way founder was direct, enthusiastic, things have been done; later, a facing up to events in confident. His humility was Champagnat’s spirit as if Marcellin were present, a gov- also evident: no-one would ever ernment that makes innovations. describe him as a person of pretence. In order to be successful with (Circ.A Revolution of the students, here are four the Heart, p. 25, 6 June 2003, approaches that I can offer to Seán Sammon, S.G.). you as infallible: - love them - be loved by them - encourage them - help them never to get discouraged (Brother Pierre Zind, Brother Francois’ Spiritual Counsels, p. 77).

28 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 29 THE GIFTS ARE DIFFERENT . . . BUT IT IS THE SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT SAME SPIRIT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. Marcellin is generous by nature, robust, outgoing; he 1. François is a shy per- enjoys personal relationships and cultivates them. son by nature, re- served, a bit cool and 2. He is inclined to action, to practical matters. distant, and not of vigorous health. 3. Quick to size up a situation and perceive God’s ini- tiatives, he commits himself wholeheartedly, inviting 2. He is inclined to in- others to do the same. He cannot sit on the fence; tellectual interests. he lives with enthusiasm for God and others. He will writing a great deal, especially 4. He is a natural, a charismatic leader who easily wins from 1860 when he hearts over to his cause.“He was endowed with an starts to collect the upright mind and a deep, sure judgment, his heart maxims of the saints. was kind and sympathetic… Marcellin’s disposition He is a talented infir- was bright, open, frank, resolute, courageous, enthu- marian, a work in siastic, constant and which he combines equable… open, knowledge, affection friendly and consid- and prayer. erate… with an abiliy to resolve situations 3. In his religious sensibility, he appears drawn towards of strife. His unas- the mystical way more than was Marcellin. suming affability… gained all hearts”, (p. 4. His leadership was intellectual and mystical. 266). 5. François is held in high regard by his confreres. He 5. There is a current of is elected Director General by an overwhelming affection that flows majority, garnering eighty-seven votes out of the strongly between ninety-two that were cast. Many Brothers describe Marcellin and his his affection as fatherly and motherly. To the Broth- Brothers. He tells ers, François composes letters that are full, rich, pol- them, “There is ished and often quite affectionate:“You know, Broth- nothing that I am un- ers, that I have always loved you tenderly.”

30 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 31 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

prepared to do in order to help you. I am ready to 6. He can be very dynamic when the interests of the share with you the last crumb.” To the Brothers he Congregation are at stake. writes short, practical, affectionate letters. For his followers he is really a father. 7. Many people seek his advice because he is known as a prudent and wise man. 6. Marcellin is the one who built the Hermitage, the man who attacked the wall of solid rock. Full of dy- 8. François makes the Hermitage a Marist reliquary, a namism, he transmits dynamism, enthusiasm and place of devotion to the Founder. Because of Broth- generosity. He had the knack of getting others to er François, esteem for the Founder develops into join him on his religious and human adventure. the preservation of memories, into devotion and in- to piety. 7. Above all else, Marcellin is Founder, the man with the charism, with the mission, the one to lead the 9. François is, in the best sense of term, a man of the Congregation, a man faithful to the Holy Spirit. Rule, thinking of it as a way of listening to the Holy Spirit. To the Congregation in a stage of rapid growth, he gives the needed structural elements: Common Rules, Constitutions, Rules of Govern- Here is my invitation to you: ment, the vow of stability.The structures will endure to be Champagnat today! for about a century. Dare to be Champagnat!… It is essential that the Brothers Self-promotion is a bring Champagnat to life treacherous thief who makes through their consecrated lives off with our good works and that they become and slips in so subtly prophetic signs of the values that he has already struck and the reality that form the his blow before we even essence of their life. realize it. (Brother Pierre Zind, (Brother Benito Arbués, S.G., Brother Francois’ Spiritual 7 April 1999). Counsels, p. 38)

32 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 33 BASKING IN GOD’S A PROLONGED INTIMACY SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT SUNSHINE WITH GOD BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. It was in prayer that Champagnat conceived and de- 1. Br. François would cided upon all his projects. He began, continued and undertake nothing completed everything in prayer. “I could never un- without long reflec- dertake anything without having long recommended tion, without pray- it to God”. (p. 300). ing a great deal and asking for prayers. 2. Prayer is the capital point in forming the Brothers. If He would place you have the gift of solid piety, you are in possession himself at God’s dis- of all virtue.A Brother who is not prayerful is a man position. He would who will accomplish nothing. (p. 313) study matters with care, consult, take 3. “Nothing struck me or edified me so much as Fr. lots of time. God Champagnat’s prayerfulness. When you hear him was his greatest ad- pray, you become certain of his holiness. Those visor” (p. 105). who had the happiness of living in his company could not fail to become prayerful men.” (p. 288) 2. “Have your confreres become men of prayer; thus you will promote 4. Marcellin was particularly attached to the prayers their sense of well being and help them infallibly to of the Church and preferred them to all others. gain their salvation” (p. 122). (p. 302). He held strongly for meditation and Eu- 3. “A thoroughgoing participation in Jesus Christ’s filial spirit before the Father, such a prayerful frame of mind gives us the deep confidence of a child, an ab- solute confidence that allows us to bring before God, as before the best of fathers, our simplest needs and the least of our sufferings” (p. 122).

4. “Who will free us from that hardness of heart that is so deadening? Who will bestow on us that sensi- tive heart, that heart opened-wide which will enable us to savor God’s law, to embrace it with courage and perseverance? The practice of prayer will do so.

34 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 35 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

charist, (p. 311). “If you are faithful to your medita- By nature hard and stubborn, ingrate and rebellious, tion, I answer for your salvation, and you will be- inclined to sensate pleasure and resistant to the come good religious”, (p. 308). Spirit, our heart will be softened by meditation and by prayer” (p. 129). 5. “I have such a keen interest in these Brothers that I never feel that I have prayed for them enough, and I The Presence of God continually recommend them to Our Lord and his “Let us adopt a habit of making very short, spontaneous Blessed Mother”, (p. 303). prayers that they will keep our mind and heart always turned towards God. Let us betake ourselves often into The Presence of God the sanctuary of our soul, and there through faith we Father Champagnat’s preferred religious practice was shall find God (p. 125). the presence of God, (p. 321). Often to make very short, spontaneous prayers and to make them so often that they turn work into true prayer, (p. 310). Yes, how little you know of God's kindness. If you understood what that kindness involves, your failings would The title of Father enflame you with love and and Founder is not only sorrow; but never would they a memory from the past; make you sad or melancholy, the Founder is also for such sadness comes from the the guardian of a charism devil. Why is it then, that you from which comes our burden yourself so readily with spirituality and mission. More that bad "relic"? What kind of so, today it is this charism that attention ought you to pay to must be lived if we are to have such sadness? Has it ever done the benefits of its richness. you any good? (Brother Pierre (Brother Basilio Rueda, S.G., Zind, Brother Francois’ Spiritual Circ. of 8th January 1968) Counsels, p. 36)

36 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 37 JESUS,THE CENTER ON HIS COUNTENANCE, SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT OF HIS LIFE THE RADIANCE OF THE EUCHARIST BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. “His piety in celebrating Mass was a source of ad- miration. His recollected countenance, his earnest- ness, the reverence of his manner were all clear indications of the sentiments that overflowed his heart and of the deep impression made on him by the holiness of the august sacrifice which he offered to God”, (p. 328)

2. “If you could only understand the immense benefits that are contained in the Eucharist”, (p. 338). “If we could grasp how much we profit from visits to the Blessed Sacrament, we would ceaselessly be lying prostrate before the Blessed Sacrament”, (p. 333).

3. Jesus, present in the Blessed Sacrament, was 1. Above all it is in Communion that we are united in- Marcellin’s refuge; there, timately with Jesus. We become one body and one at the feet of Jesus, he spirit with him. We live with his life, and he com- would ponder what had municates to us his purity, his humility, his holiness, to be done, and never all virtues (pp. 122-123). did he make even the least important decision 2. François used to place himself before the Blessed without recommending Sacrament and there he would find the solution to it to Jesus, (p. 334). his problems (p. 89).

4. To make Jesus Christ 3. One who has known Jesus Christ can no longer known and loved is the worry about the things which are going well or the aim of your vocation things that are causing suffering. He thinks only of and the goal of the Insti- drawing closer to Jesus Christ (p. 134). tute.All religious knowledge lies in knowing Je- 4. Let us draw near to Jesus Christ by knowing and sus Christ, (p. 340). loving him, and especially by imitating him (p. 134).

38 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 39 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

5. Before Communion, when Marcellin would say,“Be- 5. When François returned to his place after receiving hold the Lamb of God,” you would have thought he Communion, an extraordinary smile shown upon was seeing Jesus, (p. 290). his countenance. “It was something that seemed like a supernatural occurrence, and yet, all the same, it appeared to come about in a natural manner.” (p. 62).

6. My life would be unbearable if I had no suffering to We feel called bear for the sake of Jesus Christ. (p. 129). to centre our lives and our communities passionately on Jesus, All Christians are like artists as Mary did. who have to produce (Document of a portrait of Jesus Christ. th the 20 General Chapter, Their eyes must be attentively n° 18). focused upon the divine original. In that way they can express in themselves those features of his virtues. Try it yourself. You will soon realize that contemplating Christ's mysteries and his way of life, like a brush in the hand of a fine artist, will make of you a perfect copy of this divine Savior.(Brother Pierre Zind, Brother Francois’ Spiritual Counsels, p. 23)

40 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 41 MARY,OUR SPECIAL CHILD SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT GOOD MOTHER OF MARY BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. Devotion to Mary is 1. Born on a Saturday, died on a Saturday. His mother present from his infan- consecrates François to Mary when he is five years cy, (p. 34), deriving old. She re-consecrates him often, even on the day from his mother and on which she brought him to Marcellin Champagnat. his aunt Louise. François thought of himself as a special child of Mary (p. 41). 2. From long periods of time spent with Mary, 2. On the feast of the Immaculate Conception, I made near her altars, Mar- a resolution to aim at the perfect execution of my cellin came to see that every action (p. 46). God was inviting him to a life of sanctity (p. 3. Let us go to Mary with the utmost confidence, for 341). It was at one there is nothing that the spirit of her Son will refuse such moment spent her. He is as devoted to her as she is to him, granting with the Blessed Virgin her every wish, and she freely uses this influence with that he received the Him as if His power were her own,bestowing his bles- idea of founding the sings wherever she wish- Congregation and of es.That is the measure of giving it the very name of her who had inspired the Jesus’ love for her, the idea in him (p. 342). love that is the source of her power. (Letter of the 3. Mary is the Good Mother and Ordinary resource, 6th of Dicember 1858 . she who has done everything for us, the First Supe- Conseils spirituels du Fr. rior. Marcellin considers Mary as his mother and as François – Pierre Zind.P.24). the way that leads him to Jesus (p. 341). 4. Let me pray to the loving 4. His motto is: All to Jesus through Mary; all to Mary Mother of God, Star of for Jesus (p. 341). the Sea and my Good Mother so that she her- 5. Everything in the Institute belongs to Mary; every- self may steer the vessel thing must be used for her glory (p. 346). that she has confided to me (p. 46).

42 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 43 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

6. From 1830, the Salve will be sung each morning in 5. “To work to form Jesus in ourselves and in our stu- order to place the Congregation under Mary’s pro- dents; to have the same affection for the Brothers tection and to tell her of our confidence in her (p. and the students that Mary has for Jesus; let us hear 351).The Memorare in the Snow is one of the most the word of God and keep it in our heart as Mary beautiful indications of the protection offered by the did; let us lead a hidden life as Mary did” (p. 43). Good Mother. (pp. 352-354).

“The blood that gives life to Jesus’ heart flows from Mary’s heart and the grace that I invite each Brother sanctifies Mary’s heart and each community to undertake issues from Jesus’ heart. a spiritual pilgrimage (Gabriel Michel: Frère François, to deepen ourselves in the charism Gabriel Rivat : 60 ans d’histoire of the Founder mariste, p. 341) which is still very much relevant today. I am sure that we all will find something good “for the body and for the soul”, something that will bring to life in us the passion for Champagnat. (Brother Charles Howard, S.G., 1989).

44 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 45 I LIVE ONLY I HAVE ALWAYS LOVED SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT FOR YOU . . . ALL OF YOU TENDERLY BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. Never has a father loved his children more tender- 1. Here I am, placed at the head of my confreres, to ly than Fr.Champagnat loved his Brothers. “You are, love them and cherish them with a father’s senti- my dear Brothers, the special focus of my concern; ments, to be a guide and example for them at all my every wish, my every desire is that you would be times and places.” (Brother François, Gabriel Rivat: 60 happy ” (p. 437). Years of Marist History, 73)

2. “You know that I live only for you, and that there is 2. My very dear Brothers, I am now placing upon an- no truly good thing that I do not, each day, ask God other Brother the difficult and important functions to grant you; that I would not desire to obtain for that I am no longer able to perform. I feel that my you even at the cost of great sacrifices.” (p. 438) affection for you, my attachment to you, and my concern for all that involves the Institute will never lessen. On the contrary, it can only grow, as long as God grants me life ....In fact, when one has been twenty years at the head of a group as precious and committed as the Little Brothers of Mary; when one has had, with its members, contacts so fre- quent, so intimate, so pleasant: would such a one be able to forget them? My very dear Brothers, truly I have always cared for you tenderly, and I will always love you in that way. Yes, I will hold the thought of you preciously in my memory, and I will always bear your interests in mind.” (Circular of l860 announcing the election of a Vicar-Superior, Louis Marie).

3. Some characteristic phrases drawn from Br. François’ letters: “I love you. You know that I love you, and my only wish is for your good.” “You are aware that I love you very much, and I desire fervently that you advance in perfection.”

46 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 47 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

3. “There is no mother who has more kindness for her “You know, my dear Brother, that I have ever loved children than Fr. Champagnat had for us.” Brother you tenderly.” Laurent (pp. 336-337). (Brother François, Gabriel Rivat: 60 Years of Marist His- tory, p. 215) 4. “I beg of you, my dear Brothers, with all the affection of my soul, and by all the love you have for me, do all you can to ensure that charity is always main- tained among you. Love one another as Jesus Christ has loved you. Be on one heart and mind. May it be said of the Little Brothers of Mary as of the first Christians: ‘See how they love one another’” (Spiri- tual Testament). We would like to work at our salvation, but in a way that costs us nothing. We do not wish to suffer eternally in hell, but, at the same time, we wish to have all possible conveniences here on earth. We desire to receive the merit and reward of poverty, without lacking a thing; of chastity without denying ourselves; of obedience doing all the while what we wish. We would continue to live in the consecrated life as long as we are better off there than in normal lay life and even much better off. (Brother Pierre Zind, Brother Francois’ Spiritual Counsels, p. 39).

48 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 49 JOY JOY SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. He had a lighthearted character, was open, easy to 1. Never did I see the Servant of God lose that even- approach, attentive, a man who helped people to get ness of temper which is possessed by those who along well together.“He is very kind; he knows how seek solely the will of God. No surprise or setback to work things out in an easy going way.” (274). would disturb him. He never became discouraged; instead, bigger problems served only to increase his 2. The most admirable feature of Fr. Champagnat’s confidence. When the way ahead was blocked, he character was his equanimity. Contradictions, chal- would wait for God’s moment (89). But he also used lenges, difficulties, nothing disturbs his peace of soul to have his moment of impatience when he was sick.

2. Do not lock yourselves up in prison for the sake of your students. You need times of recreation. Better that the students learn less but form a stronger bond with the Brothers and appreciate them. Such a situation is preferable to having the students complain when they discover that the Brothers treat them sternly in order to get them to do their work. (Brother François, Gabriel Rivat: 60 years of Marist History, p. 222).

3. “Pay careful attention: sadness never, no sulking around at any time, never pouting; rather, no matter what may happen, always maintain a gentle lightheartedness, a holy joy, an even disposition, complete acceptance of what occurs.” (Letter from early 1853; Spiritual Counsels of Venerable Brother François,p.35 – Pierre Zind).Try never to lose peace of soul or joy of heart” (Ibid. p. 36). “Be conscious of the following: when you draw near to God with joy, simplicity and confidence, as a child approaches his father, you do a much greater and a much better thing than if you permit fear to gain a mastery over you. Such exces- sive fear crushes the heart and puts a layer of ice upon our pathway to perfection” (Ibid. p. 36).

50 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 51 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

or the calmness of his countenance.You never saw 4. When the Servant of God saw a confrere under the him looking sad or disheartened (274). influence of real sadness, he - the one who was so serious - used to reach out to the Brother, even to 3. To maintain the Brothers in joy of heart and the the point of singing a humorous song; and he would simple, appealing lightheartedness that he strove to not desist until had had evoked a smile and a reli- inspire in them, Fr. Champagnat allowed them to gious expression of confidence (p. 100). play during recreation times. He preferred to see the group playing simple games rather than con- versing or walking around. He himself sometimes joined with the Brothers in their games (p. 278).

4. Once, he was making a trip on foot with a Brother. You know, Since his companion seemed depressed Marcellin it is not success kept trying to lift his spirits during the trip and to that God rewards cheer him up. He began to sing the hymn “Memen- but effort to salutis auctor,” and sang it by himself from start and good will. to finish, repeating three times the chorus, “Maria, There you have Mater gratiae”. In that way he brought a bit of sol- the advantage ace to the Brother (p. 275). of working for God. 5. It is demons who ought to be sad, and it is religious There you have who ought to be happy because they are children of the reason why the saints God. Outside of sin, nothing is worse, nothing more were always filled with joy. dangerous than sadness and a sour disposition (p. (Brother Pierre Zind, 278). Brother Francois’ Spiritual Counsels, p. 75).

52 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 53 LOVE THE STUDENTS AND TELL THEM OF SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT YOUR AFFECTION BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. To be a success with young people, you must win their love and respect. When the students love the Brother who is assigned to them, they are content and happy, not wishing to make life difficult for him. When they respect him, his presence keeps them in order and moderates their frivolity and natural disorderliness. To be loved, you must love. You must be among your students like a father 1. Marcellin Champagnat is a born educator. The secret among his children. The of his success as an educator lies in the simplicity of students have to realize his human relationships and in the confidence that that you love them, that he placed in his youthful followers. (In the footsteps you are interested in all of Frather Champagnat, p. 30-31). aspects of their world: their health, their prob- 2. As far as Marcellin is concerned, the heart of the lems, their joys, their apostolate is “to make Jesus Christ known and work, their pastimes; and loved.” (Constitutions 2) “Every time I see young ...you must let them know people I long to catechize them, to make them real- that you are pleased with ize how much Jesus Christ loves them.” (Constitu- them and that the only tions 2) thing you care about is their spiritual and materi- 3. To raise children properly, we must love them, and al happiness. (Brother Fran- love them all equally. (550). çois, Gabriel Rivat: 60 Years of Marist History, p. 159)

54 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 55 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

4. We have to live amongst the students; the principle 2. Brother Avit, a highly intelligent man, is given the job of personal presence. (In the footsteps of Frather of being “School Visitor.” Among many bits of wise Champagnat,p.61) counsel that Brother François wrote to him, we read,“When you visit the classes and find something 5. A presence that reflects the motherly nature of that you have to correct, be careful to say nothing in Mary. (In the footsteps of Father Champagnat, p.66). front of the students that could offend the Brothers. She is the Mother of every student in our schools.” You are not to reprimand or correct a student in (Letter to Br. Barthélemy) front of the others. Instead, take the child aside pri- vately and inform him one to one, that is, with good- 6. A formative presence in which family spirit is promi- ness and gentleness.” (Brother François, Gabriel Rivat: nent. (In the footsteps of Father Champagnat,p.63) 60 Years of Marist History, p. 140).

7. Marcellin is open and spontaneous. 3. Brother François is a person who reflects and plans.

Equally, so, Marcellin Champagnat was known for his simplicity. There was no guile in him. He was direct, honest, unassuming, With most heartfelt and he encouraged his brothers affection and in union to develop the same traits. of prayer with you, The founder was clear: as poverty I am, in chapel, marks a Franciscan, so also should in community the virtue of simplicity mark each and at the tomb and every one of his Little Brothers of Father Champagnat, of Mary, and, indeed, marks your most devoted the lives of all who today would Brother François. claim his charism as their own. (Brother Pierre Zind, (Message from Seán Sammon, S.G., Brother Francois’ Spiritual on 6th June 2004) Counsels, p. 25)

56 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 57 DEATH: JUNE 6, 1840 RESIGNATION: 1860 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

Marcellin died at the age of fifty-one, worn out by work When he was fifty-two years and illness. When Brother François wrote to the Broth- old, François resigned be- ers in Oceania, he put is as follows: cause of poor health. Broth- er Francis Borgia, Assistant “You are undoubtedly surprised, my very dear Brothers, General under Brother Dio- not to hear the name of the one whom no so long ago gène (1920 – 1942) wrote in we referred to as our father, our superior. You see, it his deposition: “It is no sur- will soon be six months since God took him from this prise that the health of this world. His final illness had exhausted and drained him so simple worker in the Lord’s much that he was no longer anything more than a living vineyard was weakened and skeleton. Like his life, his death was greatly edifying.” even in a rather critical state (Letter of November 20, 1840). at the age of fifty-two. For a long time Brother François suffered from headaches. Dif- ficult situations, worries, hard work, concerns: he never had a moment’s release from such things. The headaches became chronic, and were of such an intensity that he asked to be released from the task of leading the Institute.” (cf. Positio super Virtutibus, p. 611-655).

People’s feelings upon learning that Brother François had died: At his death “the reflection of heavenly glory was so evident that each person wanted to have some pious ob- ject with which to touch him. All day long on Sunday,the place was never empty of visitors. At the High Mass, Fa- ther Rabier suggested that prayers be said for the de- ceased; in a particular way, however, he recommended himself to the prayers “of a soul which is so just.”

58 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 59 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

People’s feelings when they learned that Fr. The day of the funeral was very cold Champagnat had died: and there were twenty centimeters of snow “Feelings of sorrow were tempered by the deep convic- on the ground. tion in every mind, that his afflictions had been trans- Brother Stratonique was present formed into an immense weight of glory. Those who with other Brothers, came to pay their respects were at peace; they desired “joyful and comforted to look upon him and kiss his feet” (p. 255). in the thought that they were going to attend the funeral of a saint” “Let us weep for a tender father, a worthy superior and (Brother François, Gabriel Rivat, founder,a holy priest, the one who was our support, our 60 Years of Marist History, p. 370). guide and our helper always at hand .... Fr.Champag- nat’s death, like his life, was enormously edifying, and we have not doubt that, in God’s eyes, it was a precious one.” Brother François (p. 257).

60 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 61 IF WE CONSIDER THE SPIRIT IS THE ONE WHO SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT THE DIFFERENCES FASHIONS THE SAINTS BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. Robust constitu- 1. Physically not strong; sickly tion; height 1.79 meters. 2. In the family, little is known of the father. His moth- 2. In the family envi- er’s character is marked by a striking and deeply re- ronment, the fa- ligious personality which passes into the soul of ther is a formida- François. The Rivats are more clearly a farming fam- ble presence, pos- ily than the Champagnats, profoundly Christian: one sesses a certain brother a priest; a sister who, like mother, wears a culture, is active penitential cord around her waist; one nephew a in politics. priest. The mother is a decisive presence 3. At ten years of age François studies Latin. He will al- in critical mo- ways be a quick learner. ments. She forms the heart of her 4. He appears to have an on- son Marcellin. going religious develop- ment, preserving his bap- 3. For Marcellin, studies are a burden. tismal innocence.

4. Marcellin is part of the “Happy Gang” that some- 5. Assumes real responsibility times visits the local café. when he was seventeen years old, assuming the di- 5. At the age of twenty-seven, he takes on real re- rectorship of the Boulieu sponsibilities: vicar, then Founder. school in 1825.

6. A natural leader:his personality is marked by self-con- 6. An intellectual leader, given fidence, dynamism, action and affection: a man who to reflection, to recollec- builds buildings, who builds men. He has a talent for tion, to contemplation. Peo- making friends; he creates with his Brothers bonds of ple consult him as a wise father-to-son. Spontaneous and expressive in his af- and prudent advisor. Seri- fectivity. In character, lighthearted; has to develop the ous by nature, he has a need serious side. His life will be active, full, short. to develop joy. He prefers

62 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 63 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

7. Attentive to the big picture while not neglecting the to carry out his plans by indirection. Is conscious of details. being in a relation of leader-to-subject and infirmarian-to-patient, but enters the relation with sensitivity. 8. Man of the Holy Spirit, of the charism of innovation Respect for nature and a sense of ecology.

9. Creates for religious of the active life a spirituality 7. A simple life, active, long: 72 years. that adapts itself to the circumstances of founding a new congregation: nothing is set in stone. 8. Man of the Rule, of structures.

10. Expansive apostolate: “All the dioceses of the world 9. Creates the first synthesis of spirituality: Circular enter into our views.” The Spirit of Faith, 1848-1853. Transforms it into Rules and Constitutions. 11. Fr. Champagnat was François’ formator: choosing him for key roles, training him in the ways of lead- 10. A true apostle. In a discrete manner, he begins to ership, showing him great esteem. bring to reality Marcellin’s dream, “All dioceses of the world enter into our views!”

11. François desires to be “the living portrait of the Our Constitutions remind us Founder.” He warms his heart at the heart of the that “the Institute is a gift Founder, all the while remaining himself: admirable of the Holy Spirit to the Church but different from Marcellin. and is a grace forever relevant to the world”. We must rejoice in the gifts we have received as they are the heritage left to us by the Founder.But we must also make every effort possible to be more faithful to father Champagnat, to his spirit and to his spirituality. (Brother Charles Howard, S.G., 1989).

64 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 65 WE WILL HAVE OUR TAKE SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT MEAL TOGETHER AN AXE BROTHER FRANÇOIS

Br.Jean Pierre Martinol, director of The first reason which motivates the community of Boulieu (Ardè- me to believe that he was a holy che) paid a visit to La Valla in l824. man is the strange permission he Upon his departure, very early gave me, after I explained to him next morning, Fr. Champagnat told the way we had lived in the Quin- him,“Since the Brother who prepares the meals has not cié community during the unhappy year 1854-1855. yet gotten up, take this piece of pastry with you. It is the Here are his very words.“In the future, if you find your- specially blessed bread that I am given on Sunday for cel- self in a similar community setting and you are left by ebrating the High Mass. You can eat it as your breakfast yourself in the house for days on end, come to the along the way.” Motherhouse.And if it is necessary to do so in order to “No, Father,” was the reply;“I will take it to my commu- have enough money to make the trip, take an axe, smash nity, and we’ll share it at our table. You see: everything open the desk, take the money and come.” that comes from you and from our motherhouse at La Second reason.When I was substitute infirmarian at the Valla is special, suits us well and does us good. I’ll be Hermitage in 1860, the following incident occurred. A pleased to provide my confreres with this little treat. I Brother, named Zephirin, had a tonsil operation.The left am sure it will give them great pleasure, and, while we tonsil was cut too deeply, and there resulted a consid- have our meal, we will speak about you and the La Valla erable hemorrhage that lasted from 4:00 to 8:00 in the community.” evening. At 8:00 p.m. I left the sick Brother in the care Fr. Champagnat was quite taken with such sentiments of a confrere and ran to tell Br. François who came at In 1824, and said,“Br. Jean, when you speak in such a way, I could once. Upon arriving, he asked me for a bottle of sulfu- La Valla weep for joy. Feelings like that truly manifest the family ric acid, and, taking a wad of damp cotton, he applied it was the spirit which should enliven every Little Brother of Mary. for an instant to the left side of the neck, the part that Motherhouse; construction Let’s hold fast to those feelings and that spirit; then we’ll was exposed. Immediately the hemorrhage stopped. of the know the full happiness of the consecrated life” (Avis, Was it the acid treatment that made it stop or the Hermitage Leçons, Sentences: Ed. 1927, p. 321-322). prayers of the Superior (because he was praying while had not yet begun. giving the treatment)? I do not know. The fact is that the hemorrhage was stopped forthwith and the patient In 1825 who was in a fainting spell came back to his senses. Br.François (Testimony given by Br. Juventin; Positio Super Virtutibus, became director of the pp. 500-501). Boulieu community.

66 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 67 A LETTER A LETTER SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

Dear Brother Barthélemy and your dear fellow-worker, Dear Brother,

I was very glad to hear from you and to know that you are in I am very pleased to give good health. I also know that you have many children in your you this special name - school; you will consequently have many copies of your virtues, even if, for a short time, you because the children will model themselves on you,and will cer- happen to be distant from tainly follow your example. us - because you are al- What a wonderful and sublime occupation you have! You ways linked to the Society are constantly among the very people with whom Jesus that you always loved, and I am always your superior.

I received your letter with much pleasure and satis- faction. I was hoping that you would write in order to give me news about yourself, to let me know how you are doing just now and how you’re feeling, so that I might be of service to you and offer you some advice.

The fact is that I still care about you with great affection, and I often think of you. I have remembered you in my prayers. If I had known your address before, I would have written, or better still, paid you a visit.

A great sadness, a real sorrow came upon me when I heard that I would not have the pleasure of meeting you at Beau- camps. How much I regret not have been able to have a word with you, offer you a little comfort, encourage you; and how many times have I said to myself: if I could have met with him, he would not have left the Institute (p. 52).

68 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 69 SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT BROTHER FRANÇOIS

Christ was so delighted to be, since he expressly forbade his (The Bother to whom the preceding letter was written re- disciples to prevent children from coming to him. And you, turned to the Institute.) dear friend, far from preventing them, are making every effort to lead them to him. What a reception you will have in your turn, from this divine and generous master, who does Dear Brother, not let even a glass of cold water go without its reward! Tell your students that Jesus and Mary love them all very “…Our Brother Acaire’s illness induces me more and more much: those who are good because they resemble Jesus to urge you to supply your colleagues generously with all that Christ, who is infinitely good; those who are not yet good, be- they need to withstand the fatigue that comes with teaching. cause they will become so. Tell them that the Blessed Virgin Conserving their health is the greatest economy you can also loves them, because she is the mother of all the children make for the Society. Always keep to the limits set by the in our schools. And tell them that I love them very much too; Rule except - I have no need to tell you this - in cases of ex- and that I never once say Mass without thinking of you and traordinary need, the kind that an attentive, fatherly care your dear children. knows how to spot even before the sick person tells you How happy I would be if I could be a teacher, and devote about it (p. 55). myself even more directly to educating these impressionable children!

Notre Dame de l’Hermitage, January 21, 1830 Letters, Document 14

70 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 71 THE DECREE AN ENTHUSIASTIC AINT ARCELLIN CONCERNING THE ENERABLE S M AND PRACTICAL MAN V CHAMPAGNAT HEROICITY OF HIS VIRTUES BROTHER FRANÇOIS

What heritage has Marcellin left to his Brothers? Cer- With all the strength at tainly not a collection of books about theology and the his disposal, Brother consecrated life. François sought to be the living image of Fr. His heritage is found rather in a generous heart, a pas- Champagnat: through sion for the Gospel of Jesus, solid good sense along with the love of Jesus in the a practical approach to life. To put it simply, Marcelin Eucharist, imitation of the Blessed Virgin, gratitude for was a man of passion and a man of action. blessings received, encouraging everyone to share in such feelings. The Hermitage that was built by the future saint and his Hidden in God, Br. François loved silence, humility, mod- first Brothers permits us to catch a glimpse of the fer- esty. His innocence of soul was remarkable; and he vent character of the man; the building made with practiced a freely chosen bodily mortification, even to roughly cut stones shows us his qualities: strength, de- the extent of using the disciplinary whip and wearing a termination, constancy. penitential cord around his waist. Compassionate, kindly, loving towards all, especially In Marcellin’s soul there was a fire that was both con- young people, the poor, the sick, he had a marvelous tal- suming and full of light. ent for giving encouragement and comfort. As we presently see the issue . . . no doubt exists re- He always had a warm welcome for everyone; he was a garding the theological virtues of faith, of hope and of man of heart, a man full of affection. charity both towards God and towards the people he encountered during his life. The same is true for the There is no doubting the fact that it was this passion cardinal virtues of prudence, justice, fortitude and tem- which made the Founder the charismatic man whom we perance as well as the other virtues which are contin- know, not only for the young people whom he attract- gent upon them. The Servant of God, Brother François, ed so naturally but even for those who met him along Superior General of the Little Brothers of Mary, prac- life’s path. ticed to a heroic degree all the virtues referred to above. (A Heart that Knows No Bounds,p.93, Br. Seán Sammon, S.G.) Given at Rome, July 4, 1968 Cardinal Benno Gut, Prefect of the Sacred Congregation of Rites

72 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 73 PRAYER A BROTHER’S SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT OF A DISCIPLE PRAYER BROTHER FRANÇOIS

Father Champagnat, Brother François, I am pleased to be one of your disciples. with wholehearted generosity I admire the enthusiastic way you made an offering of your life in which you devoted yourself to your work, for the benefit of your brothers and sisters. the love you showed to the Brothers, Now we ask you to come and help us to young people and the poor. along the path of love and self-donation, I admire too your simple affection, so that Jesus may become the focus of our lives, sound common sense, that those with whom we live may see that he is our your love for Mary and for Jesus Master. whose boundless goodness you wanted to reveal to the world. You were “the Living Rule.” Your joyful enthusiasm sprang from the times Promote within us a love of our Constitutions, of prayer like the love that the poor of Yahweh had for the Law. that you spent before the Blessed Sacrament. You had the opportunity to see our family grow in Saint Marcellin: grant that I may resemble you numbers, in some small way. extend itself, and receive many new members. Help me to manifest to others, as you did, Today we traverse a desert; a joyful enthusiasm, intercede for us so that we may joyfully announce: and to love the Marist Family in its many manifestations: “Truly, sons are a gift from the Lord!” Brothers, young people, colleagues who share your spirit. You were an excellent infirmarian, Above all, help me to grow in my love for Jesus and his combining a mother’s tenderness and the doctor’s Mother, reserve. the one you called “Our Good Mother.” Today we ask you to pray for (name of the sick I thank you for all that you accomplished person . . .). and for the love that you have for me. By your prayer, grant that in my life François, listen to our prayer. and in the great Marist Family the Holy Trinity may be glorified, Amen! Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Amen.

74 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 75 MARCELLIN CHAMPAGNAT: GABRIEL RIVAT : SAINT MARCELLIN VENERABLE CHAMPAGNAT THE IMPORTANT EVENTS OF HIS LIFE THE KEY EVENTS OF HIS LIFE BROTHER FRANÇOIS

1. 1789, May 20 - birth at the Rosey hamlet, Marlhes, 1. 1808, March 12 - birth at the hamlet of Maisonettes France in the commune of La Valla, France.At his baptism he At his baptism he receives the names: Joseph, is given the name, Gabriel. Benoît, Marcellin. 2. 1813 - At the Valfleury sanctuary, his mother consecrates him to the Blessed Virgin. 2. 1816, July – Ordination in Lyons, France 3. 1818, May 6 - enters the Congregation at ten years 3. 1816,August 12 - arrives at La Valla as vicar of age 4. 1817, January 2 - founds the Congregation in La Val- 4. 1819, September 8 - commits himself to the Con- la gregation by the promise of obedience, taking the 5. 1824 - begins the construction of the Hermitage name François out of love for his mother, Françoise Boiron. 6. 1825 - The Brothers move into the Hermitage. 5. 1826 - makes his perpetual vows. 7. 1826 January – Marcellin is gravely ill. 6. 1839, October 12 - elected Director General and 8. 1836 and 1838 - Efforts made in Paris to obtain thereby replaces Marcellin. government recognition of the Congregation 7. 1852 - becomes Superior General. 9. 1839 - The Founder is ill. 8. 1852 - 1854 - General Chapter: Common Rules, 10. 1840, June 6 - Marcellin dies at the Hermitage. School Guide, Constitutions, Rules of Government. 11. 1889-1891 - The first steps on behalf of Marcellin’s 9. 1858 - François and his General Administration cause for canonization are initiated at Lyons. move to Saint-Genis-Laval. 10. 1860 - resigns from office and retires at the Her- 12. 1920 - The decree, issued by Pope Benedict XV, re- mitage garding the heroicity of the virtues practiced by Marcellin. 11. 1876 - suffers a stroke and is paralyzed on his right side. 13. 1955, May 29 - Beatification by Pope Pius XII. 12. 1881, January 22 - dies at the Hermitage 14. 1999,April 18 - Canonization by Pope John Paul II. 13. 1910-1934 - First steps on behalf of Br. François’ cause of canonization are begun at Lyon. 14. 1968, July 4 - Pope Paul VI issues the Decree re- garding the Heroicity of the Virtues and the accom- panying title of “Venerable.”

76 THE SOURCE AND THE STREAM 77 PRAYER FOR Lord Jesus, THE BEATIFICATION as we look on our world today OF BROTHER FRANÇOIS we realize the tremendous needs of countless children and young people. Bless them with heralds of hope O God, and witnesses to your love for them. You gave Gabriel Rivat the gift of being We thank you for inviting each of us drawn to religious life from his very early to strengthen our vocation of service. years, Help us to live in such a way so that he became one of that our witness will be a wellspring of hope, Marcellin Champagnat’s first followers, and an inspiration for new vocations later succeeding him in the leadership as lay people, religious, and priests committed to your mission. of the Institute dedicated to the Blessed Virgin. We pray Grant us, your servants, we pray, for all the men and women you are calling the joy of seeing his name honored with to live Marcellin’s dream, the title of “Blessed.” to bring your Good News to children and young people, We beg you to increase your blessings especially those most in need. upon those whom Brother François intercedes for in your presence. In a special way, we lift up to you in prayer O Mary, our Good Mother, hasten the young men you are calling to be Marist Brothers. the day when we see raised to the honor As they listen to your call, may they be inspired to be daring in following you of sainthood the one who was your with passion and generosity. servant here below. Amen. Mary, our model of courageous faith, pray for us your Family!

79 Presentation and texts: Br. Giovanni Bigotto, Postulation General Editor: Marist Brother – General House – Rome, September 2004

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