July—August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 1 7/10/19 2:33 PM ◆ Rethinking Mary in the ◆ The World’s First Love ◆ Mary of Nazareth New Testament Fulton J. Sheen Michael Hesemann Edward Sri ith his characteristic brilliance, he f rst archaeological and historical enowned author and theologian Sri WBishop Sheen presents a moving Tbiography of the Mother of Christ. Rdef ly leads the us through a detailed and unforgettable portrayal with profound From the most ancient icon of Christi- study of Scripture, making insightful insight on the Blessed Virgin Mary, that anity to the Holy House in Loreto, the connections to deepen our understanding combines deep spirituality with history, Grotto of Nazareth, and Mary’s residence of Jesus’s Mother. Readable, compelling, philosophy and theology. Sheen’s personal in Ephesus, this is a journey of discovery, and inspiring, this book will renew your favorite of all his books. full of surprising insights into the great vision so that you, too, can rethink Mary— WFL2P . . . Sewn Sof cover, $17.95 mystery of Mary. the Mother of God and our mother. Illustrated with many photos. MNP . . . Sewn Sof cover, $19.95 RDMP . . . Sewn Sof cover, $17.95 BBrilliantrilliant WWorksorks MMotherotheronon the theofof JJesusesus

fr. wilfrid stinissen, o.c.d.

mary in the bible and in our lives

IGNATIUS

◆ Cause of Our Joy ◆ Maria of Guadalupe ◆ Mary in the Bible and Mother Mary Francis, P. C. C. Paul Badde In Our Lives deeply beautiful book of rich n this heartfelt work, Badde tells the Fr. Wilfrid Stinissen amazing story of Our Lady of Guada- meditations on Our Lady based on I renowned spiritual writer and holy A lupe that changed the history of the world, the Litany of the Blessed Virgin and on Carmelite of ers a clear, beautiful revealed with the wonder of an investiga- A the Magnif cat prayer of Mary. Written by exposition of Catholic beliefs about tive journalist who has stumbled across a a holy Poor Clare abbess and acclaimed Mary. Fr. Stinissen spent decades praying fabulous treasure. spiritual writer. and pondering the mysteries of the faith Includes 16 pages of color photos. CJOYP . . . Sewn Sof cover, $15.95 concerning the Mother of Jesus. MAGP . . . Sewn Sof cover, $17.95 MBOLP . . . Sewn Sof cover, $15.95

www.ignatius.com

P.O. Box 1339, Ft. Collins, CO 80522 (800) 651-1531

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 2 7/10/19 2:33 PM Table of Contents

Features Columns 3 The Four Pillars of 8 Back to the Basics: Q & A Religious Formation: on the Essential Elements Intellectual Formation of Religious Life Rev. Brian Mullady, O.P. Scripture and the Religious Life—Part I 6 Catholic Parish Do’s and Rev. Thomas Dubay, S.M. Don’ts from Millennials Tom Hoopes 11 Answering the Master’s Call—Our Lady Secretly 16 Exodus from Ourselves Watched Over Me Leads to Mission in Service, Sr. Marites of Stella Maris, OCD. Not Servitude 13 Holy Orders for Lay Speech to International People: Following in Union of Superiors General the Footsteps of Pope Francis St. Francis of Paola Anne Tschanz Deparments 18 The Taming of the Tongue: 2 INSTITUTE Insights Practical Spiritual Guidance to Grow in Christian 20 INNERVIEW Virtue–Signs of Progress With Rev. Andrew Hofer, O.P. in Guarding Speech & Rev. Benedict Croell, O.P., Dr. Elaine Murray Stone Co-Authors of A Living Sacrifice: Guidance for Men 28 Theological Reflections Discerning Religious Life A Special Call from Christ to Do More 22 IRL NEWS & NOTES Rev. John A. Hardon, S.J. 26 Affiliate in Focus The Society of Our Mother of Peace —High Ridge and Marionville, Missouri

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 1 7/10/19 2:33 PM July/August 2019 Institute Insights Vol. XLII No. 4 ur Mission: Religious Life is published R EV. THOMAS NELSON , O.PR AEM. Osix times a year by the INSTITUTE ON ervant of God Rev. John A. Hardon, S.J., in his RELIGIOUS LIFE, Inc. (IRL). The IRL is a na- Theological Reflections emphasizes that religious tional organization founded in 1974 to have a special call from Christ to “do more,” name- encourage, support and assist authentic consecrated life as set forth by Vatican ly, to sacrifice themselves for Christ, like Christ and withS Christ. For Christ, because it is out of love for Him; like II and its implementation by the Holy See. Membership in the IRL is comprised Christ, because He is the model of how we are to live; and with of bishops, priests, religious and lay Christ, because we live the religious life with the support of persons. His grace. This teaching is revealed to us in the Scriptures, the Religious Life is sent to active mem- essential rule of all religious. Rev. Thomas Dubay, S.M., notes the importance bers of the IRL ($30 per year for U.S. of scripture in revealing to us the nature of religious life in his column, Back to membership) or to those who request it. Basics: On Scripture and the Religious Life – Part I. The generosity that gives Institutional or library subscriptions are more is also manifested in the lives of religious who were saints and founders also available. Send all correspondence like St. Francis of Paola who founded a unique religious institute and lay third to Religious Life, P.O. Box 7500, Liber- order. Anne Tschanz writes about that in her column, Holy Orders for Lay tyville, IL 60048, or call 847-573-8975. People. Many young people are being called to a life of giving more as Rev. Executive Editor Andrew Hofer, O.P., and Rev. Benedict Croell, O.P., testify to in their excellent Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.PRAEM. book on religious vocations, A Living Sacrifice: Guidance for Men Discerning Managing Editor Religious Life. Mr. Michael D. Wick Perhaps there are many things we can do to attract religious voca- Assistant Editor/Circulation tions among the millennials. Tom Hoopes has written an article about what Mrs. Anne Tschanz parishes need to do and not do to attract millennials. Perhaps institutes of Layout & Design consecrated life can adapt his recommendations as he suggests in his article, Catholic Creative Services, Inc. “Catholic Parishes Do’s and Don’ts from Millennials,” to reach out to young IRL Founder people and accompany them in their vocational discernment. + Rev. John A. Hardon, S.J. The initial call to religious life is a grace that must be accepted, but on IRL Executive Director going formation into this life of generosity is also necessary. Rev. Brian Mul- Mr. Jeffrey Karls lady, O.P., continues his series of articles on the “The Four Pillars of Religious Formation” and in this issue he writes about the importance of intellectual IRL Officers Most Rev. Robert F. Vasa formation. Formation must be supervised by religious superiors who are at President the service of the common good of the community. Pope Francis reminds Mother Marie Julie Saegaert, S.C.M.C. us of this in his speech to the International Union of Superiors General in an Executive Vice President address entitled, “Exodus from Ourselves Lead to Mission in Service, Not Mr. Paul Doetsch Treasurer Servitude.” Mr. Frederick R. Dempsey, Secretary Beyond superiors there is Our Lord and His Holy Mother Mary who Sr. Beth Ann Dillon, D.S.M.P. watches over every religious vocation. Sr. Marites of Stella Maria, O.C.D., tes- Rev. Bob Lombardo, C.F.R. tifies to this in “Our Lady Secretly Watched Over Me” in Answering the Mas- Rt. Rev. Austin Murphy, O.S.B. ter’s Call. Of course, the exercise and growth in virtue is paramount to perse- Mrs. Bonnie Quirke vering in a religious vocation and one such virtue is the virtue of veracity, that Mr. Patrick Spencer is, the virtuous use of the tongue. Many virtues are fostered in the exercise of Executive Committee veracity as Dr. Elaine Murray Stone tells us in her column: The Taming of the Tongue: Practical Guidance to Grow in Christian Virtue. © 2019 INSTITUTE ON RELIGIOUS LIFE, Inc. All Lastly, we want to present to our readers the Society of Our Mother of rights reserved. Religious Life is printed Peace in High Ridge and Marionville, Missouri in our Affiliate in Focus. in the U.S.A. Reproduction of material ap- pearing in Religious Life is prohibited with- About the Cover: The Miracles of Saint Francis of Paola (Peter Paul Rue- out written prior permission. Unsolicited bens)—Arms outstretched, St. Francis of Paola levitates while surround- articles, poetry and other original works ed by a divine light. The crowd surges towards the saint, whose expres- may be submitted for consideration. sion conveys his communion with God at the apex of the composition. Please email submissions to: irlstaff@ Famed for his miraculous healing powers, Francis was invited to France religiouslife.com. Submissions may be by the sickly King Louis XI, who is shown at the left with his royal court. edited for length and style. An assortment of afflicted people, ascend the stairs seeking cures.

2 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 2 7/10/19 2:33 PM The Four Pillars of Religious Formation: Intellectual Formation Since the first and fundamental task of intellectual formation is to acquire a personal knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ Who is the fullness and completion of God’s revelation and the one Teacher, consecrated religious ought to formally study the Sacred Truths of Catholicism.

By Rev. Brian Mullady, O.P. he third pillar in the context and must speak apos- Program for Priestly For- tolically to people formed in it. Tmation issued for sem- Even the very idea of an objec- inarians by the USCCB is the tive truth is highly suspect in intellectual life. The necessi- contemporary culture. ty of intellectual formation is One can normally presume not only necessary for the life a high school education today of priests but is also necessary for those entering religious life. with appropriate applications One should ensure that this to the life of religious. This includes a rudimentary under- is because faith is the source standing of what have tradi- of our religious vocation and tionally been called the liberal though perfect living faith en- arts. Though young people to- tails charity, one cannot love day are well educated in specif- what one does not know. The bishops express this well ic areas of study or computer media, they often lack any for priests: “The first task of intellectual formation is to sense of history, people or of the philosophical limita- acquire a personal knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, tions of the general culture. This is further compound- who is the fullness and completion of God’s revelation ed by a culture which follows a philosophy of nature and the one Teacher” (PPF, 137). Though for priests and of the human person which is directly contrary to this is essential for apostolic ministry and entails many both sound philosophy and Catholic doctrine. Even in years of study, religious follow Christ perfectly and so the past, many problems in living the vows, especially need the same personal knowledge. of chastity and obedience have been caused by a lack of authentic ethical philosophy. For this reason, those The Importance of Philosophy in initial and continuing formation must be encouraged The first study essential to religious formation is a to develop at least a basic understanding of logic, the basic study of philosophy. This, of course, for religious nature of objective truth and some metaphysical sense. would be based on their ability and the time constraints The Program for Priestly Formation recommends among of formation. The contemporary world is wrought with other things that those in formation should learn to “see a denial of objective truth which Pope Benedict char- ‘that human knowledge is capable of gathering from acterized as “the dictatorship of relativism” and reli- contingent reality objective and necessary truths’” (no. gious come from that milieu, live community life in its 156). Some knowledge of metaphysics is necessary be-

July/August 2019 3

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 3 7/10/19 2:33 PM cause as Pope St. John Paul II observes in both initial and ongoing formation. in Fides et Ratio: “A philosophy which Renewal programs are wonderful for shuns metaphysics would be radically examining certain issues in community unsuited to the task of mediation in the life. But they must also include a deeper understanding of revelation” (no. 83). “The cornerstone of encounter with Catholic truth taught in a formal sense. Some problems in the development of The Critical Role of community life can be more easily re- Moral Education a prayer life solved if based on the sound principles Proper moral education is also nec- of Catholic moral theology. essary in order for religious to appreci- in religious life must The Church is clear for priests that ate the traditions which are encapsu- be the Mass. both the study of perennial philoso- lated in their constitutions in seeking phy and sound Catholic theology must charity and making the vows a means Understanding and be based on the study of the ideas of and not an end to holiness. The correct full participation Thomas Aquinas. As the Program for understanding of friendship, obedience, Priestly Formation puts it: “Although authority and law also depend on a true in the Sacred Liturgy various theological schools exists with- philosophy of the human person. are both essential.” in the Catholic tradition, in accord Every institute results from an in- with Church teaching, the significance spiration of a religious founder whose of St. Thomas Aquinas as the model charism is recognized by the Church, leading to the per- and guide for study and research in theology should be fection of charity for those who embrace it. For this rea- recognized” (no. 219). son initial formation must include a study of the consti- tutions of the Order. This study must be clear and con- Formal Study of cisely presented so that each member can profess their Spiritual Theology vows with an informed mature consent. However, this Of course it is also important to formally study must not just be limited to the time of initial formation. spiritual theology. One new religious institute had many Love for the holy rule and the constitutions is essential problems which led to serious divisions among the mem- and so one must view them in the light of the general bers. At a certain point in time, they formally studied context of the great panoply of intellectual wisdom con- spiritual theology and were astonished. They observed tained in Catholic doctrine. In the past, some religious that everything they were doing in their community life institutes used to ensure this by reading the rule once a was wrong. They did this with the best of intentions. week and the constitutions once a year in refectory. Not everything which sounds pious and detached is so in truth. In fact, the Catholic idea of detachment, for Studying the Catechism of example, is quite astonishing for people who study it. the Catholic Church It is very sad to find religious who are often experts and Since the vows must be seen even geniuses in what they teach in the larger picture of Catholic in a school or their practice of doctrine, formation must in- medicine or whatever apostolate clude a thorough study of the they embrace who have very lit- Catechism of the Catholic Church. tle understanding of both the Those embracing the religious doctrinal and moral teaching of state must have a complete pic- the Catholic Church. ture of the foundations of their In former times, many reli- religion. Today this is sorely gious sisters often said the Lit- lacking and basic catechesis is tle Office of the Blessed Virgin hardly taught by either parents Mary which was invariable and or the Catholic school. As a re- quite short. In the post-Vatican sult, this lacuna usually must be II world many have rightly em- filled by the religious institute braced the recitation of at least

4 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 4 7/10/19 2:33 PM the major hours of the Divine vent or religious house to have Office and attempted to intro- a library which includes good duce a greater solemnity into reading matter. This reading their participation in the sac- matter should not just include rifice of the Mass. Some form popular religious books but of liturgical education is neces- some formal books of theology. sary which includes the theol- Today DVD and CD lectures ogy of the Psalms, the Church are widely available to supple- year and the ceremonies of the ment theological and spiritual Mass. Learning to sing the Litur- learning and could also form a gy is also important in at least a part of this library. simplified form. New books and Though lectio divina is an pew missals are now available for ancient and laudable practice, both the office and Mass which study should not be limited permit a simplified singing of the Liturgy in more ac- merely to spiritual reading. Spiritual reading has an im- cessible Gregorian chant. portant place in every religious context but it is differ- ent though not completely unrelated to study. Perhaps Lifelong Commitment to Formation the major superior or the council could recommend There is often a tendency in religious life for many certain books to be included in the library. reasons to limit intellectual formation to the postulan- In the past, especially among religious women, cy and perhaps the novitiate. It is assumed that what reading formal theology was discouraged and still in was taught there will suffice for a lifetime of struggle convents there is often little time left for this. But if and ministry. Also, time and financial constraints make one wonders why there are so many difficulties in reli- it attractive to limit intellectual formation to this peri- gious life, some can be traced to a lack of high-mind- od. Any teacher will be clear that students often retain edness which the study of the Catholic religion must very little of what they hear for the first time. This must enhance. St. Elizabeth of the Trinity used to say: “Get be constantly reinforced and deepened. For this rea- beyond the secondary causes.” The assiduous study of son, it would be desirable, for example, for each con- sacred truth is necessary for that. Informative and Insightful Audio Resources

The Fields Are Ripe The effecT of The New Media oN The Effects of the PriesTly aNd religious VocaTioNs The Fields are Ripe Glorify God in Your Body: for the for a Harvest Spiritual Reflections on the Promotion New Media on Priestly and of Priestly and Religious Vocations The Theology of the Body Given by Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.Praem.

©2011 I

Harvest: n Institute on Religious Life m

s o

t c . Religious Vocations for Priests, Religious & i e

f

t i

L u s t Talk 1: Religious and Priestly Vocations for u o e i g the New Millennium i o l e n Talk 2: Myths and Misconceptions Concerning Vocations Spiritual Reflec- R .

R Talk 3: The Consecrated Life: A Closer Following of Christ w w e Other Consecrated Persons Talk 4: Priesthood: The Highest Form of w l • i g the Consecrated Life 5 7 by Sr. Marysia Weber, R.S.M. i Talk 5: The Contemplative Life: Heart of 9 o -8 3 u the New Evangelization 7 s 5 L 7- tions on the Pro- i 84 f • e 8 Talks giVeN by 04 P.O 60 . B is ox Illino sr. Marysia weber, r.s.M. motion of Priestly 7500 • Libertyville, In this audio series, Sr. Marysia, by Rev. Brian Mullady, O.P. & Religious Vocations who is a physician certified by the American John Paul II gave the Church a great gift Board of Psychiatry and Neurology, discuss- in the Theology of the Body. Fr. Mullady by Rev. Thomas Nelson, O.PRAEM. es the positive and negative effects of the shows how the Pontiff’s teaching on To understand the correlation between new media on individuals and on priestly human sexuality provides the spiritual consecrated life and the New Evange- and religious vocations. The new technol- insight to deepen one’s commitment lization this MP3 audio CD is a must! ogies’ impact on the work of catechesis to live with “an undivided heart” and Five vocations talks address the New and evangelization is also closely exam- to serve as an eschatological witness of Millennium, Myths & Misconceptions, ined. (set of 3 CDs) $19.95 (+ S&H); the Kingdom. 64 pp. $8.95 (+S&H); the Consecrated Life, Priestly Voca- (1 MP3 CD) $10.00 (+ S&H) (set of 3 CDs) $19.95 (+S&H); tions, and Contemplative Life. (1 MP3 (1 MP3 CD) $10.00 (+S&H) CD) $10.00 (+ S&H) To order using credit card call 847-573-8975 or order online at ReligiousLife.com By mail, send check/money order payable to:

INSTITUTE ON RELIGIOUS LIFE | P.O. Box 7500, Libertyville, IL 60048-7500

July/August 2019 5

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 5 7/10/19 2:34 PM Catholic Parish DO’S & DON’TS from Millennials A focus group of Catholic millennials offered insights on what attracts them to parish life. Perhaps religious communities and institutes of consecrated life might wish to adapt some of these “Do’s and Don’ts” in their efforts to reach out to younger Catholics who may be discerning God’s call.

By Tom Hoopes

Boston Herald story announced, “Millennials make them “sticky” at the top of your Facebook page, making their way back to church,” and focused particularly during special times like Holy Week. on Catholic parishes in Boston that are seeing A Second: Don’t make service opportunities the more millennials at Mass. fiefdoms of previous generations. The report gave me an idea: Why not ask millen- nials that I know what attracts—or repels—them from Millennials also called out service opportunities at parish life? parishes. They tend to be run by older people who can’t If my focus group ruled the world, here are the Do’s imagine doing something different from what was done and Don’ts of parish life that they would probably en- before. force. That means that young people who don’t want to sell baked goods or can’t sew or can’t meet on Wednes- First: Don’t schedule daily parish Masses only day afternoons have no way to participate—and the for retirees. parish has no intention of changing this, because of who “My generation hates when churches cater to the is in charge. elderly and retired only,” said one millennial. She cited Do make the Church a place where millennials Masses scheduled at 8 a.m. or later instead of before or can serve their communities. after work hours. Meanwhile, one of the great benefits of church Millennials told me that a parish with an 8 A.M. or membership is that it serves as a kind of antidote to the later daily Mass is saying, loud and clear: “We don’t want self-centered and isolating social media culture. Reli- working people to attend our Masses.” gion not only bonds you to God, it bonds you to your Meanwhile, a recent Gallup poll said that member- community through service to others. ship in churches is continuing its 20-year drop (though If churches want to keep millennials, they need to religious sentiment is still strong). That is a natural “give them the keys to the car” and allow them to create consequence of church schedules that exclude working parish service opportunities that suit their abilities and people. availability. Do schedule Mass such that typical working peo- ple can attend. Third: Don’t only offer Confessions one hour On the other hand, when a parish is willing to have a week. an early or afternoon daily Mass, it sends its own mes- Millennials tell me that the Sacrament of Recon- sage: “We will sacrifice to meet your needs, rather than ciliation feels like a sacrament built for them. It allows demand you sacrifice for ours.” them to focus on their unique personal life story and A bonus tip for parishes from my focus group: Please, how it intersects with God and the world, and get per- please, put your Mass times on your parish website, and sonalized help in making it better.

6 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 6 7/10/19 2:34 PM But working people have a hard time getting to More of that, please! Confession on a Saturday, the day when all their errands Fifth: Don’t try to be hip. have to happen also. Those with children find it even harder. Several years ago I noticed an interesting genera- Do offer Confession in the evening. tional divide in meetings about parish music. Young My parish does a great job at this, offering Confes- people wanted the traditional, “singable” hymns that sion on Wednesday after work. are old chestnuts in our hymnals: “To Jesus Christ Our The popularity of the sacrament is obvious: You of- Sovereign King,” “Holy God We Praise Thy Name,” ten see young people in line at the parish, and Confes- “Hail Holy Queen Enthroned Above,” etc. sion lines at Benedictine College, right next door, have The 50 and older crowd wanted the hymns that were quintupled in the last ten years. popular in the 1970s and 1980s: “On Eagle’s Wings,” “I Am the Bread of Life,” and “Here I Am, Lord.” Fourth: Don’t only offer fellowship for older Often, when older people try to reach out to young- people. er people, they ignore what younger people actually Often, the fellowship opportunities at a parish cater want, and default to the kinds of things they liked when to particular categories of people—older people. they were young. The only women’s group might be a moms’ group, Instead, do try to be authentic. for instance, or a divorce support group. The only men’s “We want authenticity,” one millennial told me. group might be a service group made up mostly of re- “When Catholic churches try to be youth-friendly— tired men. less smells and bells and more hip—it rings false.” Do allow young people to create their own style She told me young people like Eucharistic adoration of fellowship (make it available outside work hours!) and other tradi- The Boston Herald story offered one example of a tional devotions, along with Bishop Robert Barron-style Boston parish that offers a 7 P.M. Sunday Mass with a apologetics. potluck dinner afterwards. This maybe sums up all of the advice my focus group At my age (49), I would never go to such a Mass or gave me. Don’t try to be who you aren’t—be who you such a potluck. But that’s exactly the point. Millennials are, but be that for all. would and do. “There’s something about being at the table with Tom Hoopes is writer in residence at Benedictine Col- a bunch of people and laughing and joking—that’s the lege in Atchison, Kansas, This article originally appeared in connection that people like,” said a parish worker. Aleteia. Reprinted with permission of the author.

July/August 2019 7

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 7 7/10/19 2:34 PM Back to the Basics Q & A on the Essential Elements of Religious Life Scripture and the Religious Life –Part I–

By Rev. Thomas Dubay, S.M. 2010

It seems that some modern Scrip- that he departed from the communi- natural in the Gospels, the case for Qture scholarship calls into question ty’s faith (Dt 13:1-6; 1 Jn 4:1, 6). All accepting the kind of criticism repre- centuries-old interpretations and some this our best scholars accept and hold. sented by scholars such as Schweitzer, of the Church’s teaching in regards to I am aware of no dispute among them Bultmann, Tillich and their many fol- the consecrated life. Often these rein- on this point. lowers. He finds the credibility slight. terpretations extend into the evangelical Yet if our questioner has in mind His first reason is the lack of basic counsels and hence either state or imply less careful writers, he has not exag- literary judgment, and imperceptive- that our usual understanding of reli- gerated the situation. A cursory read- ness regarding the very quality of the gious life is seriously faulty. Is it? ing of available literature, Protestant texts they deal with. Lewis observes and Catholic, makes it obvious. From that this is an odd charge to bring This question is no peripheral the merely human point of view the against men who have devoted their Amatter. We learn the meaning problem raised is a problem of liter- lives to a minute study of the New of religious life from the lips of the ary criticism. Because Scripture is a Testament texts, but that, he notes, Lord or we do not learn it at all. The literature of extremely rich and var- is probably the main problem. They vowed life is no mere sociological iegated types, biblical critics can be have been so confined to biblical phenomenon, no mere freedom for a no more believable than is justified by texts that they lack an adequate stan- career. It is a revealed mystery. the quality of their literary criticism. dard of comparison, a standard that In all fairness, it must be said at Therefore, I can do no better then could arise only from a wide expe- the onset that not all Scripture schol- to summarize the thought of a mas- rience of literature in general. Thus ars and theologians by any means de- ter literary critic. Literature was his they fail to see what is obvious to the supernaturalize Scripture. Many see field of specialization and few would thoroughly competent critic. “If he and accept that God’s word cannot be question his extraordinary competen- tells me,” says Lewis, “that something studied validly except in the context cy in it. In 1959, C. S. Lewis read a in a Gospel is legend or romance, I of the ekklesia, the community that paper at Cambridge on the very point want to know how many legends and gave it birth and in which it was first with which we are dealing. He rightly romances he has read, how well his understood. In neither dispensation, did not pose as a biblical scholar, but palate is trained in detecting them Old or New, was Scripture a collec- simply as a man whose life at Oxford by the flavor; not how many years tion of books handed over to private and Cambridge was immersed in lit- he has spent on that Gospel.” Lewis individuals. They were writings orig- erature both as writer and as critic. then illustrates some of the gross mis- inating in and reflective of the faith In his paper, Lewis reflected on the takes made by some scholars simply of the community. This is so true that credibility of the case for denying the because they lack a deep grounding a sure mark of the false prophet was historicity of almost everything super- in literature as literature.

8 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 8 7/10/19 2:34 PM Secondly, criticism of this type you see the whole matter from the of modern scholarship’ as to the way usually supposes that the teaching other end of the process. The at- in which an old book was written, and intentions by Christ were soon tempt to reconstruct the genesis of are ‘assured,’ we may conclude, only misunderstood and misrepresented an author’s book, how it came to be, because the men who knew the facts by His followers and have been right- on whom he did or did not depend, are dead and can’t blow the gaff.” ly recovered only by modern scholars. what his intentions were or were not That we are on the right track Lewis has found this same type of the- is usually surely doomed to failure and being little impressed by radi- ory practiced in his own field of liter- unless the author tells you himself. cal biblical criticism is suggested by ature, sometimes with interpretations To know this we need not reach to the fact that the critics seldom agree that are seen to be just impossible to the dim past. Any writer who has among themselves. And their dis- one who really understands the orig- been extensively reviewed most like- agreements are not always minor. A inal milieu. “The idea that any man ly knows it from experience. Lewis position is no sooner ‘assured’ than or writer should be opaque to those illustrates from his own work how one finds someone else (indeed, a who lived in the same culture, spoke wildly wrong his reviewers have been whole new school) who rejects it. the same language, shared the same in their imaginary histories of how There must be something funda- habitual imagery and unconscious as- and why he wrote this book or that mentally wrong with the enterprise. sumptions, and yet be transparent to Who of us in academe cannot agree those who have none of these advan- with Lewis when he remarks that he tages, is in my opinion preposterous. “does not expect the present school There is an a priori improbability in of theological thought to be everlast- it which almost no argument and no “We learn ing... I have learned in other fields evidence could counterbalance.” the meaning of of study how transitory the ‘assured’ The third point is made by other results of modern scholarship’ may critics of the critics. Liberal theolo- religious life from be, how soon scholarship ceases to gians (who in my opinion are any- the lips of the Lord be modern.” thing but liberal—I find their views I have also found in my two or minimizing and restrictive) are en- or we do not learn three decades of working with ex- amored of the assumption that the it at all... It is a perts and of reading the literature miraculous does not occur. This is an produced by doctors in science, phi- unproved position that they bring to revealed mystery.” losophy, theology and psychology the text. It is philosophy, not Scrip- that as a group they are not notably ture. Most likely they have derived more objective than the common their position from an uncritical ac- article. Their reconstructions are not man on the street. In my younger ceptance of the spirit of their age. only occasionally wrong. They are days I assumed that experts coolly They surely do not derive it from the almost always wrong. Lewis could assessed the facts and humbly bowed biblical word. recall no case in which they were to the evidence. I assumed they had The fourth reason could only right. His examples are devastat- no intellectual axes to grind. Two come from one with a wide knowl- ing evidence to this point. My own or three decades of experience has edge of literary criticism, one who writing experience led me to feel all taught me otherwise. Some bow to has often experienced having his this even before Lewis so lucidly and any well-established evidence, many own books and articles reviewed by compellingly described it. do not—just as is the case with the others. Much of the biblical criticism Another problem with the re- common run of human beings. The depends on the reconstruction of the construction of ancient text is history of science is filled with ex- text being studied: its dependency that the results cannot be checked amples of prominent scientists who sources, its time and place of origin, against facts. Lewis points out that resist unpopular theories which have the intentions of the author(s), the in the only cases we can check the been later proved to be true. Reluc- whole Sitz im Leben of it. The im- alleged genesis with the facts (mod- tance to accept accumulating scien- mense erudition often brought to ern examples) the results are almost tific evidence pointing to creation this task appears convincing until always wrong. “The ‘assured results as the source of the universe is a

July/August 2019 9

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 9 7/10/19 2:34 PM current example of this inner preju- indicated for a select few. A special ing (2 Cor 6:10). Apostolic Timothy dice. What is true of scientists is also obedience is implied in a communal is admonished to avoid superfluities, true of Scripture scholars and theo- living of the other two counsels even to be content with sufficient food logians. We are all sinners. though it is not expressly mentioned. and clothing (1 Tim 6:7-8). The vow Now what has this to do with (It goes without saying that the ordi- of poverty is the simple living of the religious life? It does not mean that nary obedience of all the faithful to Gospel realities under a new, solemn- we belittle biblical scholarship, but religious and civil leaders is explicitly ly promised application. It is clearly it does suggest that we take it with taught in the New Testament.) found in the New Testament. a due grain of salt, that we are not How is the poverty practiced in When we come to the vow of upset by the latest declaration, that religious life taught in the New Tes- obedience I like to speak of it being we entertain a healthy skepticism for tament? The free surrender of private rooted in the New Testament. An unproved (and often unprovable) as- property is first of all taught in the ex- obedience to religious leaders in the sertions. When these assertions bear ample of Christ. He chose to be factu- Church is as explicitly taught as one on matters pertinent to our life (pov- ally poor in the circumstances of His could ask: “Obey your leaders and erty, celibacy, relationship to the hi- do what they tell you” (Heb 13:17; cf erarchical element in the Church), also 1 Pet 5:5). But this is not yet that we join the early faithful in “cling- peculiar type of obedience we find in ing to the teaching of the Apostles” religious life. How is this later found (Acts 2:42) as it comes down to us “Religious life is a in the Gospel? When men or women in the Church. We take biblical crit- school of Gospel decide to live celibacy and poverty icism seriously when it is in accord in a new radical community, a triple with the mind of the Church, “the holiness.... It teaches need for a new authority-obedience pillar and ground of the truth” (1 its members not relationship emerges. This emergence Tim 3:15). is an evangelical emergence and thus only what the three the new obedience merits being called I would like to follow up on the vows mean, but an evangelical counsel. Qlast response. Speakers and writers What are these three roots? The have said in recent years that the vows of what the whole first derives from the fact that the poverty and obedience are not found in Gospel means.” new poor-celibate community re- the New Testament, and it would seem quires a new authority/obedience if it that their very right to be called evan- is going to survive as that community. gelical counsels is questioned. To what birth, in the simplicity of Nazareth, The second root in some institutes is extent is it true that these counsels are or and having no place to lay His head apostolic involvement for the King- are not found in the early kerygma? during apostolic travels, in the utter dom. The organization and direction despoilment of the Cross. When peo- of a corporate apostolic enterprise re- Statements like the one cited ple decide to relive this factual pov- quires a new authority with its correl- Ain the question are simplistic erty and community, they are doing ative obedience. And finally, religious at best, erroneous at worst. Care- what the vow of poverty entails. He life is a school of Gospel holiness. It ful thinkers do not speak about the and the Apostles likewise taught teaches its members throughout their vows in this black and white manner. in word the ideal of a surrender of lives not only what the three vows What ought to be said is that each of goods going beyond what the faithful mean, but what the whole Gospel the three counsels is contained in the are bound to do. Some give up their means. Like any teacher-pupil rela- New Testament after its own man- property for the Kingdom (Mk 10:28- tionship, this one also requires a new ner. Celibacy/virginity is presented as 30; Mt 19:27-29; Lk 18:29-30). The authority and obedience. a favored way of life in clear, explicit laity are not asked to do this. A group It is therefore, incorrect to say words. A sparing/sharing manner of of the faithful give over their goods to that religious poverty and obedience life is presented as meant for all in the the community and live from a com- are not found in the New Testament. Church, yet a more radical surrender mon fund (Acts 2:44-47; 4:32-35). They are so found. They do merit the of all material goods is clearly enough Celibate Paul is happy to have noth- title of evangelical counsels.

10 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 10 7/10/19 2:34 PM Answering the Master’s Call

Vocation Stories

Our Lady Secretly Watched Over Me

By Sr. Marites of Stella Maris, OCD

he earliest memory I have The first time I saw a religious is being in the arms of my sister was when I was about six or Tfather after an incident in seven years old. While visiting my which I almost died. I was just learn- oldest sister, Emmaline, who was in ing to walk, and nobody noticed me college, I saw a sister with a group of as I found a large double-pointed little children following her. Though u-shaped nail which was used to lock I could not remember what the sister one of the windows. I swallowed the looked like, she deeply touched my nail and it stuck in my throat. With- heart and inspired in me the desire to in moments, I turned blue and was be like her when I grew up. running out of breath. Everybody When I was in the 5th grade, panicked! With much courage my Emmaline married a Filipino-Amer- father took the nail from my throat ican and moved to the United States. using his fingers. Blood was coming She became a citizen and helped my out of my mouth, nose and ears. parents to get their immigrant visas All my life, I wondered why God while the rest of the children were did not take me then, when as a little left in the Philippines. Being the child the surety of Heaven already youngest, I was my mother’s shadow would anyone want to be in prison belonged to me. But God created me and it was very painful for me to be like that?” not just to save my own life but to away from her. But this was also the After I finished college, I went to bring as many souls as I could into period when I strongly felt Our La- an all-girl Catholic boarding house the Father’s eternal bosom. dy’s presence in my life, leading me while I prepared for the Certified Pub- My six siblings and I were born gently to the Heart of Her Son. I also lic Accountant exams. Daily Mass, and raised in a very small, remote, understood that my parents had to Rosary, and bible study were just steps undeveloped area in the Philip- leave to give us a better future, that it away, but I was only a Sunday Catho- pines. My parents were Catholic, was part of God’s loving plan. lic and did not take advantage of these but never really practiced it. As a I was in college when I first opportunities. My mind was caught up little girl I would peep through the heard about the cloistered life. One with studies and plans of immigrating window to watch people walking of my classmates told me that no to America. Because the faith was not towards the little church for Mass. one ever saw them. They never left practiced at home, the seed planted Oh, how I wished my family would the monastery. “What a mysteri- was not watered. The little poor plant do the same! ous life,” I thought to myself. “Why grew very, very slowly.

July/August 2019 11

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 11 7/10/19 2:34 PM To help pay for my education, cerned me greatly. There was a feel- my mother had a cleaning job at Mc- ing of unworthiness for such a sub- Donalds. Unfortunately, I did not lime “Call.” The Sisters explained to pass the CPA exam. However, this me that the nine years of formation was the beginning of my “gradual would be like being in the womb of conversion.” My mother’s sacrifices Holy Mother Church where I would were not in vain. One day, a young receive nourishment to grow into a lady asked if I would like to pray good Catholic Christian. It would the Angelus with her in the chapel. also be a time of preparation for re- I nodded. Then, there was silence. ligious consecration… to be a Bride She asked, “Would you like me to of Christ in the Order of Our Lady… lead it?” I nodded again. Deep with- CARMEL! in, I was so embarrassed. I was twen- On February 11, 1997 the Car- ty and did not know my prayers. melite sisters lovingly received me I realized that the seed of faith as a postulant. I closed my eyes and planted in my heart would only grow jumped, trusting that the Lord Je- if I watered it. Our Lord had been sus would be there to catch me. He giving me all these opportunities to asked for my heart. Empty and cold of a cloistered Carmelite. She allows grow in love for Him and there I was as it was, I gave it to Him. herself to be captured. The soul is engrossed with my studies and my I was not sure how my parents set apart from the world to be with plans. I began to make visits to the would take this surprising news. But the Beloved. To human eyes she is chapel and joined the sisters and the my father told everyone that he was a prisoner. But she is freer than any- girls in praying the Rosary. so proud of his youngest child. I was one else…freely loving the Lord and Leaving my own country was not his gift to God and the Church! above all letting herself be loved by difficult for me because of my desire During my initial formation, I Him. No one knows she exists, but to find what I was searching for. The learned more about the cloistered she is probably one of the reasons much-awaited immigration papers life, that mysterious thought which why the world still exists, for she un- were finally approved. In America, I pondered within my heart while in ceasingly offers prayers and sacrific- I had all the things I needed and college. The desire of belonging en- es. As she silently journeys towards wanted. But deep within there was a tirely to God in silence, solitude and heaven, she lovingly embraces the feeling of emptiness. prayer attracted me. It would be dif- world and pleads to God for mercy. Being a cantor in my parish ficult to be far from my family and Her life is like that of the Blessed helped me to go to Mass more of- the sisters but there would only be Virgin hidden, simple and poor. She ten than just on Sundays. Instead peace if I did the will of God. possesses Him who is the Eternal All. of watching TV, I read sacred Scrip- One day, I saw a poor little bird By Our Lady’s gentle guidance, I ture and prayed in the solitude of my trapped inside of a greenhouse. I have been at the Carmel of the Holy room. It was during a silent retreat, tried to help it, but the poor bird was Cross, Iron Mountain, Michigan as a sponsored by an active Carmelite scared and kept flapping its wings to solemn professed cloistered Carmel- community in the Archdiocese of Los go through the glass. Finally, it no ite nun since October 1, 2005. Angeles, that the Lord made known longer had the strength to move, and And whatever happened to the to me for what my heart was longing let itself be captured. little bird? When it let itself be cap- for, I longed for Him! I was looking It is only when we allow our- tured, its heart was beating violent- afar but He was within. It was there selves to be captured by the Divine ly out of fear. I held it in my hands that my love for the Blessed Virgin Hands that we can truly be free to until it calmed down. I kissed its lit- Mary was reawakened. With all my sing the most beautiful hymns to win tle forehead and set it free. It again heart I loved Her and desired to be hearts for Jesus. This is the vocation found some strength to fly away to like her! rest on a tree. There, on top of the For more information visit: Growing up in a family where we highest branch it sang the sweetest HolyCrossCarmel.com did not practice Catholicism con- hymn of thanksgiving.

12 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 12 7/10/19 2:34 PM Holy Orders For Lay People

Religious Life for the Laity

Following in the Footsteps of St. Francis of Paola —The Third Order of Minims— By Anne Tschanz

f all the Third Orders men- called: An den heiligen Franziskus von tioned in this series of ar- Paula (To the hallowed Francis of Oticles, the Third Order of Paola). The two Francises are among Minims is probably the least known the most renowned religious brothers today. Most of the Minim houses are on the Church calendar. in Italy, the birthplace of their found- Francis of Paola was born c. 1416 er, St. Francis of Paola, with others in Paola in the southern part of Ita- scattered around the world. Their ly. His parents were poor but devout name, the Order of Minims (Ordo people. Childless for several years, Minimorum), derives from Latin min- they pleaded through the interces- imus (least), alluding to Matthew sion of St. Francis of Assisi for a son 25:40, “Amen, I say to you, whatever who would give glory to God’s name you did for the least of these brothers and were blessed with Francis, named of Mine, you did for Me.” St. Francis after the saint. At age thirteen, he of Paola used to call himself “il min- was placed in a Franciscan convent imo dei minimi,” basically the littlest where he embraced an austere life- of the little. Pope Leo X, in the Bull that showed him walking on water. style and carefully observed the rule, for Francis’ canonization, said that According to tradition, when Fran- though he was not a member of the the Minim’s name should exemplify cis was denied boat passage across community. After a pilgrimage with the great humility of members of this the Straits of Messina on the coast of his parents to Assisi and Rome, Fran- mendicant Order. Certainly, it accu- Italy, he laid his cloak on the water cis was given permission by them to rately portrays the humbleness and and used it as a sail to cruise across retire in solitude to a hermitage in austerity of their hermit founder. the sea. In a letter to the compos- 1432 when he was only 15 years old. St. Francis of Paola was very er Richard Wagner, Lizst said: “On He took upon himself the most beloved in his time and known as a his outspread cloak he strides firm- austere way of living. He did not wonder-worker. Franz Liszt, the Hun- ly, steadfastly, over the tumultuous eat meat or animal products such as garian composer and his namesake, waves, his left hand holding burning eggs and milk, and generally ate one composed two solo piano pieces (the coals, his right hand giving the sign of meal a day, usually herbs or bread Deux legends) in honor of two Fran- blessing, his gaze is directed upwards, and water. This lifestyle was incor- cises—St. Francis of Assisi and St. where the word ‘Charitas,’ surround- porated into the fourth vow (the vita Francis of Paola. Liszt was inspired ed by an aureole, lights his way!” Liszt quadragesimalis) that all Minims pro- by a picture of St. Francis of Paola also composed a second choral work fess, which is a perpetual Lent. The

July/August 2019 13

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 13 7/10/19 2:34 PM purpose of this fourth vow was to atone for the laxity and lukewarm- ness prevalent among Christians. This Lenten life is a “total conver- sion to God, deep participation in the expiation of Christ and a call to Gospel values of detachment from the world, the primacy of spirit over matter and the urgent need for pen- ance, which entails the practice of charity, love of prayer, and physical ascesis” (Constitutions, 3). People might conclude that this made Francis unapproachable but it is significant that he adopted Chari- tas as the Order’s motto, for his way miracle-worker who cured the sick himself for a happy death. Louis did, of evangelization was not one of fire and raised the dead. He could hold dying in the Saint’s presence a year and brimstone but one of loving pres- hot coals in his hand without being later. Francis wrote: “The glory of ence “in situations of intense spiritu- burned, stating, as documented in this world is false and its riches are al poverty,” bearing “that transparent the Bull: “All creatures obey those fleeting…happy is he who worries image of the chaste, poor and obedi- who serve God with a pure heart.” more about a pure conscience than ent Christ which alone attracts and Other men joined him, forming a full coffer (Rule, Ch. IV) wins over those who are seeking truth a community known originally as The King’s successors prevailed and peace” (Pope John Paul II, 2000). the Hermits of St. Francis of Assisi upon him to remain in France for the In his penitential life, St. Francis of and many additional houses were next 20+ years and he died in Ples- Paola was taking on the burdens of established in Italy. King Louis XI of sis-les-Tours on Good Friday, in 1507, others to bring them to Christ. France, in dread of death and decay- age 91, while the Passion of the Gos- But, paradoxically, the more ing in body, convinced Pope Sixtus pel of John was being read to him. His Francis humbled himself, the more IV to command Francis to come to incorrupt body was desecrated by the God greatly exalted him in the his aid in Plessis-les-Tours which he Huguenots in 1562 but some relics eyes of men. He was sought out by did in 1482. Francis explained to the were recovered and were sent to vari- princes for he had the gift of proph- impatient and ill-tempered King that ous churches, including one in Paola. ecy, including foretelling the fall of the lives of the greatest and the least He was canonized in 1519. the last Christian emperor in Con- had appointed limits and instead of As an aside, something else jour- stantinople. He was a documented asking for a cure, he should prepare neyed to France along with Francis, the Bartlett pear. Francis present- THE THIRD ORDER OF MINIMS ed seeds to the King and today it is known as the “poire bon Chretien” Founder: St. Francis di Paola in 1233 (good Christian pear). In Germany, Motto: Charitas (“charity”) his name lingers on as well in Pau- laner Beer, originally brewed by the External Sign: Minim cord Munich Minims. Francis’ profile is Spirituality: Penance, humility and charity still on the company logo. Mission: To bring about a spiritual renewal in the family, One of the most famous Minim the workplace and society tertiaries was St. Francis de Sales. Born in Savoy, France, in 1567, Formation Program: Novitiate (1 year) Francis had a crisis of faith while We b s i t e : SanFrancescodaPaola.com in college over the issue of predes- tination. Worried that he might be

14 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 14 7/10/19 2:34 PM destined for eternal damnation, The Generalate of the Minims Francis prayed that he might love is in Rome at the Church of San God in this life if he was unable to Francesco di Paola ai Monti. There love Him in eternity. However, af- are over 300 priests and religious ter praying a Memorare, all fear and All Minims take around the world as well as a Feder- doubt left him. After this momen- a fourth vow of ation of Minim Nuns and Third Or- tous event, he dedicated his life to der fraternities. There are two stat- God and became a Minim tertiary. “total conversion ues of Francis erected at St. Peter’s Shortly before he became Bishop to God, deep in Rome—on the south colonnade of Geneva, he made a pilgrimage participation in the and a founder statue within the Ba- to Plessis-les-Tours to pray at the silica itself. The Minim Basilica of founder’s shrine. expiation of Christ and Sant’Andrea delle Fratte in Rome is Another famous Minim tertia- a call to the Gospel where the Blessed Mother appeared ry is St. Joan of Valois, patroness of to the French Jew Alphonse Ratis- the Minims, who came under the values of detachment bonne in 1842 (the most famous direction of the saint. Joan was the from the world, the conversion story associated with the daughter of the aforementioned Miraculous Medal), and also where King Louis XI who, hoping for a son, primacy of spirit over St. Maximilian Kolbe celebrated his was very unhappy with his physical- matter and the urgent first Mass in 1918. ly deformed daughter. Her arranged In a letter to his confreres Fran- marriage was a deeply unhappy one need for penance.” cis wrote: “Death is certain, and life but Joan was faithful despite her is short and vanishes like smoke. husband’s neglect and ingratitude. remaining faithful to the Minim Therefore, you must fix your minds When he ascended to the throne as charism, and seek to be leaven in on the Passion of Our Lord Jesus King Louis XII in 1498, he petitioned the world to bring about spiritual Christ who so burned with love for successfully to have the marriage renewal in the family, the workplace us that He came down from Heaven annulled. Joan responded: “God be and society. Their spirituality is char- to redeem us.” In the Rule, Francis praised Who has allowed this, that acterized by penance, humility and urges his followers to attend Mass I may serve Him better than I have charity. They are to receive the Sac- daily, so that they may be strong heretofore done.” She founded the rament of Reconciliation regularly and faithful in their observance of Order of the Annunciation, still and attend Mass frequently and de- the Commandments. “In attending existing today, where the prioresses voutly. Devoted to prayer, they look Mass, you will also pray that Christ’s are called Mother Ancelle (Latin for for the “least” among us to bring all death may be your life, His pain the Handmaid) to emulate the Blessed to Christ. mitigation of your pain, and His toil Virgin’s humility. Joan was canonized Their commitment to the wit- your eternal rest” (Rule, ch. VII). in 1950. ness of evangelical penitence is Beginning May 1, 2019, the The secular Third Order was of- so necessary today, said Pope John Minims began the year-long cel- ficially approved by Pope Alexander Paul II, because there is so much so- ebration of the fifth centenary of VI in 1501. Pope John Paul II, com- cial and economic imbalance in the Francis’ canonization. For the cele- memorating their 500th anniversary world. Francis combined fasting, bration of the sixth centenary of his in 2001, recognized the uniqueness of abstinence and charity in the Rule, birth in 2016, the Minims thanked the Minim Third Order when he said: said the Holy Father, and asks the God, the Father of Mercy, “who al- “Indeed the Rules of the First and Tertiaries to learn “the wonderful ways awaits us with open arms. For Third Franciscan Orders have never synthesis between the contempla- us children of the Holy Hermit, it been compiled simultaneously by the tive dimension and the witness of will be a day entirely dedicated to same founder as your founder did.” charity.” Francis was wildly popular prayer and fasting: only if God is in The Minim Third Order mem- by the great and the meek alike be- the first place and central, is it really bers strive for holiness, fulfilling cause they saw in him a man who and truly possible to open and share their baptismal commitment while loved them as Christ. one’s heart and life.”

July/August 2019 15

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 15 7/10/19 2:34 PM Exodus from Ourselves Leads to Mission in Service, Not Servitude

The following is a speech given by Pope Francis on May 8, 2019, to 850 women religious, who were in Rome for the plenary assembly of the International Union of Superiors General.

ear sisters, the theme of your meeting seems to Obedience as listening to the will of God, in the in- me particularly important for the task entrusted terior movement of the Holy Spirit authenticated by the Dto you: “The service of authority according to Church, accepting that obedience also passes through the Gospel.” In light of this expression I would like to human mediation. Remember that the relationship propose to you three simple thoughts, that I leave for between authority and obedience fits into the broader your personal and communal analysis. context of the mystery of the Church and constitutes a Jesus, at the Last Supper, turns to the Apostles with special realization of her role as mediator (cf. Congrega- these words: “You did not choose Me, but I chose you” tion for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of (Jn 15:16). They remind us all, not only Apostolic Life, The Service of Authority us who are priests, that vocation is al- and Obedience, no. 12). ways an initiative of God. It is Christ Poverty as overcoming every kind who called you to follow Him in the of selfishness, in the logic of the Gospel consecrated life and this means contin- “Like the rest of us, which teaches us to trust in God’s Prov- uously making an “exodus” from your- young men and women idence. Poverty as a sign for the entire selves in order to center your life on Church that it is not we who build the Christ and on His Gospel, on the will of are wounded with Kingdom of God. It is not human means God, laying aside your own plans, in or- Original Sin. They, too, that make it grow, but it is primarily the der to say with Saint Paul: “It is no lon- power and the grace of the Lord, work- ger I who live, but Christ Who lives in can be selfish in ing through our weakness. “My grace is me” (Gal 2:20). This “exodus” from our- giving up the glitter sufficient for you, for My power is made selves means setting out on a path of ad- perfect in weakness,” the Apostle to the oration and service. The exodus leads us of the world.” Gentiles tells us (2 Cor 12:9). A pover- on a journey of adoring the Lord and of ty teaches solidarity, sharing and char- serving Him in our brothers and sisters. To adore and to ity, and is also expressed in moderation and joy in the serve: two attitudes that cannot be separated, but must essential, to put us on guard against material idols that always go hand in hand. To adore the Lord and to serve obscure the real meaning of life. A poverty learned with others, keeping nothing for oneself: this is the “self-emp- the humble, the poor, the sick and all those who are on tying” of whoever exercises authority. May you live and the existential outskirts of life. A theoretical poverty is no always remember the centrality of Christ, the evangelical use to us. Poverty is learned by touching the flesh of the identity of the consecrated life. Help your communities poor Christ, in the humble, in the poor, in the sick and in to live the “exodus” from the self on a journey of adora- children. tion and service, above all through the three pillars of Then there is chastity, as a precious charism that your life. broadens the freedom of our gift to God and to others,

16 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 16 7/10/19 2:34 PM with tenderness, mercy, where the One Who is the closeness to Christ. Chas- Lord becomes a servant to tity for the Kingdom of the point of the total gift of Heaven shows how the Himself. emotions have their place Lastly, ecclesiality as in mature freedom and be- one of the constitutive di- come a sign of the world to mensions of the consecrat- come, to make God’s pri- ed life. It is a dimension macy shine out ever bright- that must be constantly er. But, please, let it be a reclaimed and deepened in “fruitful” chastity which life. Your vocation is a fun- generates spiritual children damental charism for the in the Church. The conse- journey of the Church, and crated woman is a mother, it is impossible for a conse- she must be a mother, not a “spinster”! Excuse me for crated man or woman not to “think” with the Church. speaking like this, but motherhood in the consecrated “Thinking” with the Church begot us at Baptism; “think- life is important, this fruitfulness! May this joy of spiritual ing” with the Church finds one of its filial expressions in fecundity motivate your life; be mothers, as a figure of faithfulness to the Magisterium, in communion with the Mary, Mother, and of Mother Church. It is impossible to Pastors and the Successor of Peter, the Bishop of Rome, understand Mary without her motherhood; it is impossi- a visible sign of unity. Proclaiming and witnessing to the ble to understand the Church apart from her motherhood Gospel, for every Christian, are never isolated acts. This and you are icons of Mary and the Church. is important: for every Christian the proclamation of and A second element I would like to underline in the witness to the Gospel are never isolated acts of an indi- exercise of authority is service: we must never forget that vidual or a group. No evangelizer acts, as Paul VI recalled true power, at any level, is service, whose bright summit very well, “in virtue of a ... personal inspiration, but in is upon the Cross. Benedict XVI, with great wisdom, of- union with the mission of the Church and in her name” ten reminded the Church that although man frequently (Evangelii Nuntiandi, no. 60). And Paul proceeded: “It is equates authority with control, dominion, success, for an absurd dichotomy to think of living with Christ with- God authority is always synonymous with service, humil- out the Church, of following Jesus outside His Church, of ity, love; it means entering the logic of Jesus who kneels loving Jesus without loving the Church” (cf. ibid, no. 16). to wash the Apostles’ feet (cf. Angelus, 29 January 2012), Be aware of the responsibility that you have in forming and says to His disciples: “You know that the rulers of your Institutes in the sound doctrine of the Church, in the Gentiles lord it over them.... It shall not be so among love for the Church and in the ecclesial spirit. you,” which is precisely the theme of your meeting, It In short, the centrality of Christ and of His Gospel; shall not be so among you, “but whoever would be great authority as a service of love; “thinking” in and with among you must be your servant, and whoever would be Mother Church. These are the three indicators that I first among you must be your slave” (Mt 20:25-27). Let would like to leave with you, to which I add yet once us think of the damage done to the People of God by men again, my gratitude for your work, which is not always and women of the Church who are careerists, climbers, easy. What would the Church do without you? She who “use” the People, the Church, our brothers and sis- would lack your motherhood, warmth, tenderness and ters—those they should be serving—as a springboard for motherly intuition! their own ends and personal ambitions. These people do Dear sisters, you may be sure that I follow you with the Church great harm. affection. I pray for you, but please also pray for me. May you always know how to exercise authority by Please greet your communities for me, especially the accompanying, understanding, helping and loving; by sick and the young sisters. I encourage everyone to fol- embracing every man and every woman, especially peo- low with parresia (boldness) and with joy the Gospel of ple who feel alone, excluded, barren, on the existential Christ. Be joyful, for it is beautiful to follow Jesus, it is margins of the human heart. Let us keep our gaze fixed beautiful to become a living icon of Our Lady and of our on the Cross: there is found any authority in the Church, hierarchical Holy Mother Church.

July/August 2019 17

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 17 7/10/19 2:34 PM The Taming OF THE Tongue Practical Spiritual Guidance to Grow in Christian Virtue

Signs of Progress in Guarding Speech

“Who is a wise man and endued with knowledge among you? Let him shew out of a good conversation, his works with meekness of wisdom.” –James 3:13

By Dr. Elaine Murray Stone 2005

ne of the first signs that we have made any real prog- Oress in guarding our speech will be a consciousness of peace and quiet about us in the course of our days. For the first time in our lives, our ears will not be constantly ham- mered by the sound of our own voic- es. Without a doubt, our confrères and community will welcome this change, and there might possibly be a lessening of tension and dispute in some of our religious houses. A great deal can be accom- plished by a quiet smile and a gen- tle manner, using these in place of words that might be unnecessary or even detrimental. Saint Ignatius of Antioch could thus write the Bish- most becoming to us, and we’ll grow interlinked one with another, that op of Philadelphia, to the church at in general spiritual stature. We will you cannot possess one perfectly that place: learn to ignore the promptings of without having all the rest already, “. . . at whose meekness I am our ego and become more aware of as it were, on the threshold of your struck with admiration, and who, the words and needs of others. heart” (The Spiritual Combat— by his silence is able to accomplish Another sign of progress will be Scupoli), we will have fewer sins to more than they who talked a great reflected in our confessions which confess. deal” (Letter of Ignatius to the will become shorter and shorter as Together with a new meekness Philadelphians, Ch. 1). we eliminate this aspect of our sin. and gentleness that will be grow- If we only pause to reflect— By the gradual decreasing of garru- ing within us, we will find a general most of our words are unnecessary lousness, we’ll acquire the virtue of tendency toward maturity. We will anyway. Our new silence will be silence, and “as all the virtues are so recognize that in the past we have

18 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 18 7/10/19 2:34 PM indulged in childish and irresponsi- ble activities, evinced by the lack of control we had over things we said to others. “A mature person knows the important from the unimportant. He is courageous enough to say his say when the say he needs to be said, but also wise enough to with- hold his say when the matter is too unimportant to merit discussion” (The Mature Mind—Overstreet, Chap. 13). We will also notice that, while we may still have a surge of words come to mind, we now have an alert internal sensor on guard to review them before we speak. Only those words that passed the careful scru- tiny of our conscience will become words we speak. “. . . If anyone offend not in word, he is perfect, and able to bri- dle the whole body” (Jam 3:2). Our goal should be perfection, and this control of speech will be a great step toward it. it will make it evident. Our entire Points to Remember “You, therefore, must be per- outlook on life will become more • When we begin to control our fect, as your Heavenly Father is cheerful and optimistic, and we speech, we will experience a perfect” (Mt 5:48), Our Lord has will demonstrate a holy calm that new peace and calmness in our commanded. will influence everyone around us. lives; We may take as indicative of The harder we try and the more we improvement the fact that every- succeed, the greater our peace and •Much can be accomplished by a one who knows us will recognize contentment. quiet smile and a gentle man- the changes in us and love us even “Oh, how kind and generous of ner; more because of them. In itself, that God when He makes it impossible •As we seek perfection, our con- should be a sufficient reward for our for us to become very happy unless frères and communities will efforts, but there is a greater reward, we become very good” (Letters to a love us more, and we’ll become and the more we progress, the more Niece—Von Hugel). more cheerful and optimistic.

Daily Prayers for Vocations WHERE THERE’S he IRL has reprinted and updated the little prayer leaflet: “Daily TPrayers for Vocations: Adapted from the Messages by the Holy A WILL, Fathers for the World Day of Prayer for Vocations.” Designed to THERE’S A WAY! fit into a wallet, the seven messages for each day of the week are taken from the very first message issued by Pope Paul VI in Remember the IRL in 1964 and now include excerpts from Popes John Paul II, Benedict your will or estate plan. XVI and Francis. They are a perfect resource to place in Adoration Our legal name is: chapels and for use at a vocations event. The cost is only 15 cents each plus shipping and handling. “Institute on Religious Life, Inc.”

July/August 2019 19

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 19 7/10/19 2:34 PM InnerView

With Rev. Andrew Hofer. O.P. & Rev. Benedict Croell, O.P. Co-Authors of A Living Sacrifice: Guidance for Men Discerning Religious Life (Vianney Vocations)

Fathers, the Dominican Friars of the Dominican order is Ve r i t a s. I think health. His Congregation is renowned, Province of Saint Joseph are experi- there is a crisis of truth in the world in part, for its education (such as the encing a vocation crisis—you have today. Many people do not even think University of Notre Dame), and he too many! What is attracting so many that there is objective truth. But the was not well educated. But Saint An- young men to the Dominican Order? job of the Dominican preacher is to dre lived an amazingly fruitful long life help people to see the truth by clear- of teaching people about the power of HOFER: God is very generous in ing away obstacles. Once they see it prayer and trust in God, especially calling young men to the Dominican they will move towards it themselves. with the help of Saint Joseph. way of life, as I think He sees a spe- This way of engaging the culture cial need for the Dominican charism comes from St. Thomas Aquinas and CROELL: I think by and large the of preaching the Gospel for the salva- the Medieval Dialectic, entering into men that come to visit us recognise tion of souls. Dominicans believe that another’s way of thinking and then that living religious life is a great thing Our Lady wanted this Order for that gently opening the door for them to and they see that in the saints of the purpose of salvation, and what was see the Truth of Jesus Christ. Church and reflected in the friars of true over 800 years ago for that pur- our province. Many of them initially pose remains true today. All of us Do- In your book, you give some examples are a bit overwhelmed and they at minicans are unworthy sinners. And of saints who entered religious life, times think that the possibility of do- God has called us to proclaim His each with a unique and varied his- ing this is way beyond them because greatness, to illuminate others with tory. It brings to mind a quote from they still have so far to go. But when the things we have contemplated. We Saint Irenaeus: “The glory of God is they get to know our younger and old- are called to be consecrated to the man fully alive.” Do some men not er friars, they begin to see that they’re Truth, and the Truth sets people free. consider religious life because they actually human beings and they’re feel they do not “fit the mold”? not canonized saints—just yet (!) but CROELL: There’s no explanation rather, all of us are a work in progress. for why we have so many vocations HOFER: Yes, each saint is different. I think that they see that living reli- except the grace of God. The men When we enter religious life, and are gious life well is attainable and there who come to us have a deep desire to generous by dying to self and accept- is real possibility that “I can actually make a real sacrifice of their lives to ing God’s plan, we become more and do this.” I think a major obstacle for the Lord. It is true that no commu- more who we are meant to be—and a number of young men is accepting nity is perfect, but I think that when nobody else can fulfil that particular that each of us are a work in progress men come to visit us they see an au- mission in God’s providence. St. An- and we must have patience with our- thenticity in our friars and a commit- dre Bessette, the great Holy Cross selves and God. Religious life is that ment to the preaching of the Gospel Brother of Montreal, is one saint we school of perfection lived out over —our younger friars are intelligent, feature in our book. He almost didn’t a lifetime in a specific way to follow zealous, and pious. The motto of the make profession, because of his poor Christ with the example of the saints.

20 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 20 7/10/19 2:34 PM While none of us are worthy of such about their son entering religious life it is difficult to attract young people a life, God can do tremendous things or the priesthood? to consider religious life. I would en- with His grace to help us to become courage communities to stress their saints! HOFER: In our book, we discuss charism, be open to the new move- how young men—when the time is ments of the Holy Spirit, offer a sac- The Dominicans profess only one vow right—should talk with their par- rificial witness to Jesus, give clarity explicitly: obedience. Do you think ents. The young men need to listen about the community’s mission today, part of the crisis in vocations today is to the concerns of their parents, and be hospitable to inquirers, and do not the focus on self-fulfilment rather than talk with them about the meaning of compromise on standards for accept- the supreme act of freedom of striving entering religious life. It takes several ance and formation. to be obedient to the will of God? years before a man can make a life- long commitment, and parents need CROELL: I think Father Hofer has HOFER: If our goal is to make our- to know the safeguards in place by the said it all. The one thing I would add: selves completely happy in this world, Church and the religious community have multiple opportunities for men we will be frustrated. Our Lord Jesus about not being rash. I also think a to come in for a vocation weekend says, “unless a grain of wheat falls to young man, who has a religious vo- to visit—space them out over the the ground and dies, it remains just a cation, needs to learn how to share year and make sure they will happen grain of wheat. But if it dies, it bears his joy with others who love him but when most of the members of your much fruit” (Jn 12:24). Our book is don’t understand what is happening community are home. Believe it or titled A Living Sacrifice. For us to be- in a religious vocation. Many parents not, I think each religious community come happy, we must die to self and are relieved once they get to know has to learn how to create a climate live for God alone. the community and their son’s joy in of hospitality and frequently welcome that vocation. men in to pray and eat with the com- CROELL: I think really what it comes munity. down to is the work of grace and what CROELL: I’m reminded at my time that means in the life of each follow- at the Dominican House of Studies What resources do you recommend er of Jesus Christ. With the help of whenever parents would come to vis- for a person in discernment? God’s grace we become who we truly it their sons, the entire class of friars are. There is no other way except in gathers around the visiting parents at HOFER: Father Benedict and I hope Jesus Christ to become who God has the head table. It is a kind of reunion. A Living Sacrifice: Guidance for Men planned for us to be in this life. Our Most parents recognise that their son Discerning Religious Life would be a identity is discovered only in Jesus is happy in religious life and they see resource that would lead young men Christ by the grace of God. That’s the support and the fraternity that he to other resources. We shouldn’t for- very liberating and I think when men has within the community and they get that personal relationships can be realize that they recognise that follow- know that their son has made the great resources, and the best resource ing Jesus Christ is not some complex right choice. I think religious orders is to be in personal relationship with process but rather becoming the man need to do more to educate parents the Trinity through grace. We want whom God has planned for me to be- about the charism. But the best way our readers to pray, frequent the Sac- come my whole life. This form of reli- for that to happen is simply to invite raments, read Sacred Scripture and gious life that I freely choose has been them into the community and let the lives of religious saints, know tried and proven to help that happen them meet everyone. what the Church teaches about reli- in the lives of countless men before gious life, and be in contact with com- me. It is not much of a risk to enter What vocational advice can you give munity vocation directors who can be into such a life. The man receives so religious communities who are trying of more personal assistance to them. much more than what he offers! to attract vocations and encourage young people to “Come & See”? CROELL: I think that says it all! People today have very little knowl- edge of religious life. How do you HOFER: God’s providence is myste- To o r d e r a c o p y o f A Living Sacrifice, reassure parents who have qualms rious, and we don’t always know why please visit VianneyVocations.com.

July/August 2019 21

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 21 7/10/19 2:34 PM IRL News & Notes Summit Dominicans Host Open House of New Wing n January 20, 2018, Car- dinal Tobin, Archbishop Oof Newark, presided at the groundbreaking ceremony for the construction of a new addition at the monastery at the Dominican Nuns of Our Lady of the Rosary in Summit, New Jersey. On May 18, 2019, the Cardinal returned for the Dedication and Open House of the new wing. At the end of Mass His Eminence conferred the Apostol- ic Blessing with the plenary indul- gence granted for this occasion by Pope Francis. surprise was in regards to the picture meaning that this area is reserved for Roughly 300 people attended of the young man hanging in the new the nuns and is off-limits except in the event with over a dozen priests exercise room. “Sisters, why do you very specific cases (such as mainte- concelebrating. After the Mass the have a hunk hanging on the wall?!” nance of the facility and grounds). prioress Sr. Mary Martin, O.P., led ... “it is Blessed Pier Giorgio Frassati, Many people who have been coming Cardinal Tobin through the new sec- a fellow Dominican!” In fact, the ex- to the monastery for decades were tion of the monastery for the bless- ercise room is named after him. so happy to be able to explore the ing. Following this the Dominicans At the end of the tour guests grounds. The predominating theme invited all attendees to tour the were invited into the backyard for of the comments: “We had no idea wing. Sisters were strategically sta- refreshments and to see the beautiful this was back here!” tioned throughout to guide, explain, grounds. As a cloistered monastery, The Dominicans wish to thank and answer questions. the majority of the new wing and the everyone who made this day such a One comment that came as a backyard fall within Papal Enclosure, success and who made this new wing a reality! For more information and pho- tos visit, SummitDominicans.org.

22 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 22 7/10/19 2:34 PM ReligiousLife.com Website Overhaul Now Complete

he overhaul of the IRL’s main website, ReligiousLife. Tcom, was successfully com- pleted and went LIVE on the So- lemnity of the Sacred Heart. The last makeover occurred in 2011, which in online terms might as well be an eternity! For this major project, the staff turned to the Catholic web- site experts at SOLUTIO, a very talented and very faithful web development group based out of Kansas. SOLUTIO is responsible for IRL Affiliates communities: to serve as a window to the public the websites of many diocesan, Please stay tuned for how you can about your communities and at- parish, and religious communities contribute updated high resolution tract young people who are in the throughout the United States, in- pictures, videos, and other content discernment process! cluding several IRL Affiliates. The new site will feature a dy- namic listing and map search of all the affiliate communities and allow videos and articles to be em- bedded into the individual com- munity profiles. Further, the even- tual hope is to feature as much of the rich content as we can from the various National and Region- al Meetings as well as Religious Life magazine articles that the IRL has stored up over the years.

July/August 2019 23

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 23 7/10/19 2:34 PM IRL Welcomes Three New Affiliate Communities

t the recent Executive Com- Seven times a day the nuns gather Their website is HRMonline.org. mittee meeting of the INSTI- to sing God’s praises. Their website is Lastly are The Sister Servants ATUTE ON RELIGIOUS LIFE, three MississippiAbbey.org. of the Eternal Word, a community new affiliate communities were ap- Next is Holy Resurrection Byz- of religious women in Irondale, Ala- proved. The first is Our Lady of the antine Monastery located in Saint bama, with the apostolate of retreats Mississippi Abbey in the Archdio- Nazianz, Wisconsin, and belonging and catechesis. Their foundress was cese of Dubuque, Iowa. The Abbey to the Romanian Catholic Eparchy Mother Mary Gabriel Long who be- is a cloistered, monastic community of St. George’s in Canton, Ohio. Ini- gan the community in 1987. of nuns of the Cistercian Order of tially formed Recognizing that there is a great Strict Obser- in 1995 in need in our time for catechesis and vance (Trap- C a l i f o r n i a , also for places that foster greater pistine), striv- by 2011 they union with Our Lord through prayer, ing to follow relocated to the Sister Servants present retreats Jesus Christ Wisconsin. in their Casa Maria Retreat House, through a life of prayer, silence, sim- (The town is named after one of the offering formation in the Catholic plicity, and ordinary work. greatest Eastern saints, St. Gregory Faith within the context of beautiful The Abbey was founded in 1964 the Theologian, known in the West liturgies and Eucharistic devotion. when thirteen nuns left Mount Saint as St. Gregory Nazianzen). Their website is SisterServants.org. Mary Abbey in Wrentham, Massa- Here, the monks strive to live chusetts, to found an new communi- the monastic life of prayer, work, ty near Dubuque. Situated on a bluff and hospitality while contributing to overlooking the Mississippi River, the the spiritual lives of their friends and nuns support themselves though the neighbors (whether Eastern or West- Trappistine Creamy Caramels they ern Christians), especially through make themselves and sell by mail. dedication to practical ecumenism. Vianney Vocations Kiosks Provide Helpful Resources ianney Vocations has devel- The mission of Vianney Voca- Voped a Vocation Station Ki- tions is to help renew the Church by osk that is a great resource for high inspiring a new generation of priestly traffic areas in a parish, monastery/ and religious vocations. They have convent or college chapel. The sol- worked with more than forty dioces- id oak kiosk holds resources to ed- es on projects ranging from simple ucate and inspire people who are seminarian posters to finding new discerning a vocation, praying for candidates and helping them discern vocations, fostering vocations in the their vocations. family, and much more. The kiosk As one vocation director notes, includes 23 different resources (950 “Creating a culture of vocations in items in total) such as Discerning is a necessary effort accompanied Your Call, Seven Ways Families Can by many challenges. Vianney Vo- great service to the Catholic Church Foster Vocations, Invisible Monastery cations is an essential ally, with a at the local and national level in bookmark, Discerning Priesthood, great love for the Church combined many ways.” Rosary for Vocations and vocation with an ability to speak honestly and Visit VianneyVocations.com or worksheets for children. A “discern- relevantly to those considering a re- call 877-585-1551 for more informa- ment books” option is also available. ligious vocation. Their efforts are a tion.

24 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 24 7/10/19 2:34 PM The 2019 Vita Consecrata Institute Kicks Off he 2019 Vita Consecrata In- stitute began July 1st on a Tbeautiful sunny day at Chris- tendom College in Front Royal, Vir- ginia. Fr. Thomas Nelson, O.Praem., welcomed the nearly 40 registered participants representing men’s and women’s religious communities from around the country. Communities from California, Texas, Alabama, Minnesota, Arizona and various other locations made the sacrifice of time away from their communities to attend the one month or 2-week graduate studies program. Students come to the VCI for a variety of reason. Srs. Veronica and Jennifer from the Leaven of the Im- maculate Heart of Mary in Alabama said: “We love the VCI; it is like a retreat with spiritual formation and Fr. Brian Mullady, O.P., began Each day begins with Morning on-going education. This is our third the first day of classes with an intro- Prayer and Holy Mass, and con- year with eleven sisters here this duction to the course “Theology of cludes with Evening Prayer, a Holy year.” Brother Antonio of the Fran- The Body” citing the teachings of St. Hour and the Rosary. The program is ciscan Brothers of Peace commented Pope John Paul ll. Father Mullady an excellent way to grow in a deeper that “the VCI has a wonderful atmo- suggested that religious life is repre- understanding and appreciation of sphere where you feel that you are sentative of life before the “fall” and the consecrated life as “a gift to the part of a larger community.” after the resurrection. Father to His Church through the Holy Spirit” (Vita Consecrata, no.1).

July/August 2019 25

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 25 7/10/19 2:34 PM Affiliate in Focus

The Society of Our Mother of Peace High Ridge and Marionville, Missouri

Laboring to Win Back Lost Souls to the Fold of the Good Shepherd...

hrough the life of the Catho- Their aposto- lic Church, many forms of re- late does not swal- Tligious life and communities low up their prayer have emerged. Although the combi- life but rather, it nation of the contemplative and ap- flows from it. Their ostolic dimensions of Our Lord’s life apostolic effort find has been a very old form of religious its expression in a life, it is nevertheless, a marked fea- two-fold manner: ture of the Society of Our Mother of 1) Helping persons Peace, a family of two independent deepen their spiri- religious communities—the Sons of tual life through in- Our Mother of Peace (for brothers dividual direction, and priests) and the Daughters of private retreats on Our Mother of Peace (for sisters)— their grounds, conferences on the state. The hermitage is God’s sacred within the Church. spiritual life, and associate member- sanctuary in which they seek to live. The Society has an all-encom- ship; and 2) The full evangelization There, each member is called to lose passing balanced lifestyle. It has of non-Catholics and fallen-away him/herself in God in order to devel- the combination of an eremitic and Catholics through door-to-door pre- op a heart totally free for Him. Six contemplative structure of life with sentation of the Catholic Faith. hours (divided into three segments, a direct spiritual apostolate. This is By God’s grace, the structural excluding Holy Mass and the Divine lived in the context of material sim- elements and other ingredients of Office) are set aside daily for solitary plicity and evangelical poverty. The the life have carefully preserved this prayer, and six hours, for the aposto- Society follows the spiritual orien- charism. On their heavily-wood- late of making available the Truths tation of St. John of the Cross, the ed property called a Solitude, each of the Catholic Faith primarily to great Carmelite mystic and Doctor member occupies a simple and aus- the poor and to all who have not of the Church. tere hermitage separated by the had the Catholic Faith presented to woods which provides each of them them. Anyone open to the Faith is with a “modern-day” type of desert followed up with and catechized by for growing in greater intimacy with them or by others in a given parish God. This “desert” description most in which they work. basically describes the orientation of Solitude in their life brings a their hearts, to be increasingly un- deeper understanding and stronger cluttered in order to be filled with bondedness in Christ. Each day they God alone. come together in their central chapel Other aspects of the life are or- to celebrate the Eucharist and chant dered so as to serve and preserve this the Divine Office of Morning Prayer,

26 July/August 2019

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 26 7/10/19 2:34 PM In the Spirit of the Founders. . . Inviting Others Back to the Faith

he Society of Our Mother of cludes lay mem- TPeace was founded in 1966 by bers, both mar- Rev. Placid Guste (right). It first ried and single, took shape in Oklahoma City af- who desire to ter the then-Bishop Victor Reed intimately share accepted Father Guste’s plan to in their three- form a religious community. He fold mission. offered the use of eighty acres of While the Sisters’ communi- Midday Prayer, and Evening Prayer diocesan land for this purpose. ty has been in Marionville since (Office of Readings and Night Prayer This first monastery was called 1977, the Brothers’ Community are prayed privately). The three meals Bella Maria (“Beautiful Mary”) in started permanently at the Soli- are taken in community in their re- honor of Our Lady. tude only in 2011. Thus, the Sis- spective refectories. Breakfast is tak- The community’s mission ters have served the Diocese for en in silence, while a spiritual reading would later be defined as: “to es- about 36 years now. In Springfield, precedes lunch and supper. This sets tablish a setting in which the con- they have worked in a number of the tone for table conversation, to templative life, with a strong focus parishes: St. Joseph, Sacred Heart, strengthen each other in Christ’s life. on solitude and solitary prayer, will and St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Weekly communal recreation also be available in the context of aus- Outside of Springfield, they have provides an opportunity in which they tere simplicity, with two aposto- worked in St. Joseph Parish, Bill- seek to strengthen one another in lates, namely one of helping persons ings; Holy Trinity Parish, Aurora; their journey to union with God. deepen in prayer and self-discipline, Sacred Heart Parish, Verona; and and the apostolate of making the St. Lawrence Parish, Monett. The Catholic Faith available primarily Brothers have worked in St. Joseph to non-Catholics, especially to Af- Parish, Springfield; St. Joseph Par- rican-Americans, by door to door ish, Billings; and Holy Trinity Par- visitation.” ish, Aurora. Over the years, they The growth in members and have had the joy of seeing many the need for a seminary in close people come into the Church and proximity to a monastery brought others returning to the practice of about the establishment of a sec- their Faith. ond foundation in 1971 which is For more information contact: called Mary the Font Solitude in Mary the Font Solitude High Ridge, Missouri, just outside 6150 Antire Road of St. Louis. At the invitation of High Ridge, MO 63049 then-Bishop Bernard Law of the 636-677-3235 Diocese of Springfield–Cape Gi- or rardeau, another foundation was Queen of Heaven Solitude established in Marionville, a few 12494 Hwy T miles west of Billings. This location Marionville, MO 65705 is today known as Queen of Heav- 417-744-2011 en Solitude. To date, the Society MarytheFont.org has foundations also in the Phil- [email protected] ippines and in Nigeria. It also in-

July/August 2019 27

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 27 7/10/19 2:34 PM Theological Reflections Great Books on Prayer and Liturgy

BY REV JOHN A. HARDON, S.J. ◆ ST. GREGORY’S PRAYER BOOK SERVANT OF GOD/IRL FOUNDER (1914–2000) beautifully produced leatherette prayer book compiled by the Ordinariates established by Pope St. Gregory’s ABenedict XVI and drawing on the riches of the Angli- Prayer Book can liturgical heritage and the exquisite Cranmerian A Special Calling from Christ to Do More language of the Book of Common Prayer to further c enrich the panoply of Catholic liturgy and devotion. religious vocation is a spe- What’s the more? It is first in re- T e text includes ancient English collects, introits cial call from Christ through ceiving the grace to do more than and hymns available together for the first time for Athe Church to follow Christ is strictly required to reach Heaven. the whole Church as approved examples of Cath- more intimately in the lifetime prac- What does this more mean? It olic liturgy. In addition to the Liturgical texts, tice of the evangelical counsels in means undertaking a life to do more classic translations of traditional prayers and devo- a community according to norms than is expected of others. Either a re- tions for use in the Church and in the home have been approved by the Church. It is Jesus ligious resigns himself to doing more lovingly compiled and edited. Christ who does the calling no less than others or that person does not than He called the Apostles in the have a religious vocation. T is lovely book of prayers is user friendly and first century and continues to call in What does this more mean? It accessible to Catholic faithful with a love of beautiful our century. But, as the documents of means doing more than is obligato- language and in search for supplementary resources the Church make clear, it is a special ry by Divine precept. God has laid for their prayer life that are both new and at the same call, it is a specific call in many ways. For Christ because it is out of love down certain clear and unqualified time respectful of Church tradition. With gold block- It is first of all special in Christ for Him, like Christ because He is the obligations (do this, do not do that, Ignatius Press ing on cover and spine, and a silk ribbon marker. calling only (and we have to say this) model of how we are to live and with obeying Christ’s commands and ob- SGPBP . . . 450 pages, Synthetic Leather, Satin Marker, $24.95 certain people. It is by God’s will Christ. Religious life is practically serving His prohibitions) to be saved. selective. It is moreover, a call to a conceivable, let alone livable—yet The more means going beyond pre- distinctive, different, indeed unique alone livable happily only if we have scription, beyond obligation, beyond ◆ THE SPIRIT OF THE LITURGY Commemorative Edition way of life. Others have their call, re- grace from Christ. In other words, we precept, beyond command. Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger and Romano Guardini ligious have theirs. It is finally special need His help. What does this more intimately n honor of its fortieth anniversary (1978–2018), Ignatius Press presents a in being called to do a very particular The fundamental essence of reli- mean? It means doing more in response Ispecial Commemorative Edition of one of the most important works written work in the apostolate. gious life is in doing more. More than to greater graces. This is a frightening by Joseph Ratzinger, with a new Foreword by Cardinal Robert Sarah. The heart of every call is to a what? More than is strictly obligato- reflection. Whatever else revelation T is edition includes the earlier classic work with the same title by Fr. Romano mission. The correlative of vocation ry to reach Heaven. A person has a tells us it makes lucidly clear that to Guardini, a book that helped Ratzinger to "rediscover the liturgy in all its is mission. Religious are therefore vocation to being a consecrated reli- whom more is given of him more is beauty, hidden wealth and time-transcending grandeur, to see it as the animat- called by Christ in order to be sent gious only if that person has received expected. ing center of the Church, the very center of Christian life". by Christ, to be assigned by Christ, to the grace to do more. It is therefore assumed that a T is beautifully written treatment of the liturgy will deepen your understanding be designated by Him to cooperate Remember when Christ invited religious vocation means receiving of the "great prayer of the Church". He discusses fundamental misun- in a distinctive way in His work of the rich young man and after telling extraordinary graces. Clearly not ev- derstandings of the Second Vatican Council's intentions for liturgical renewal, saving souls. him to keep the Commandments eryone receives such special graces; including the priest's orientation of prayer to the Father, the placement of the To follow Christ means to be- the young man objected, “but I have that’s why not everyone is called to tabernacle, and the posture of kneeling. Other topics include the essence of come specially associated with Christ, kept this from my youth, what more religious life. worship, the Jewish roots of Christian prayer, the relationship of the liturgy to in imitating Christ more closely, in be- is wanting to me?” And then Our And finally, we are still asking time and space, sacred art and music. ing ordered by Christ to identify with Lord set down the Magna Carta of ourselves what does the more really SPLCEH . . . Sewn Hardcover, 375 pages, $24.95 His saving work in sacrificing oneself. religious life, “if you wish,” depend- mean? It means doing more because I recommend memorizing this triad: ing on the translation, “to be perfect it means undertaking positions in the sacrificing oneself for Christ, like Christ go the whole way, then do certain Church, that we call positions of leader- www.ignatius.com and with Christ. things” and finally “follow Me.” ship in extending Christ’s Kingdom. (800) 651-1531 28 July/August 2019 P.O. Box 1339, Ft. Collins, CO 80522

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 28 7/10/19 2:34 PM Great Books on Prayer and Liturgy

◆ ST. GREGORY’S PRAYER BOOK beautifully produced leatherette prayer book compiled by the Ordinariates established by Pope St. Gregory’s ABenedict XVI and drawing on the riches of the Angli- Prayer Book can liturgical heritage and the exquisite Cranmerian language of the Book of Common Prayer to further c enrich the panoply of Catholic liturgy and devotion. T e text includes ancient English collects, introits and hymns available together for the first time for the whole Church as approved examples of Cath- olic liturgy. In addition to the Liturgical texts, classic translations of traditional prayers and devo- tions for use in the Church and in the home have been lovingly compiled and edited. T is lovely book of prayers is user friendly and accessible to Catholic faithful with a love of beautiful language and in search for supplementary resources

for their prayer life that are both new and at the same time respectful of Church tradition. With gold block- Ignatius Press ing on cover and spine, and a silk ribbon marker. SGPBP . . . 450 pages, Synthetic Leather, Satin Marker, $24.95

◆ THE SPIRIT OF THE LITURGY Commemorative Edition Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger and Romano Guardini n honor of its fortieth anniversary (1978–2018), Ignatius Press presents a Ispecial Commemorative Edition of one of the most important works written by Joseph Ratzinger, with a new Foreword by Cardinal Robert Sarah. T is edition includes the earlier classic work with the same title by Fr. Romano Guardini, a book that helped Ratzinger to "rediscover the liturgy in all its beauty, hidden wealth and time-transcending grandeur, to see it as the animat- ing center of the Church, the very center of Christian life". T is beautifully written treatment of the liturgy will deepen your understanding of the "great prayer of the Church". He discusses fundamental misun- derstandings of the Second Vatican Council's intentions for liturgical renewal, including the priest's orientation of prayer to the Father, the placement of the tabernacle, and the posture of kneeling. Other topics include the essence of worship, the Jewish roots of Christian prayer, the relationship of the liturgy to time and space, sacred art and music. SPLCEH . . . Sewn Hardcover, 375 pages, $24.95

www.ignatius.com

P.O. Box 1339, Ft. Collins, CO 80522 (800) 651-1531

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 29 7/10/19 2:34 PM Non Profit US Postage PAID PO Box 7500, Libertyville, IL 60048 Nashville, TN Permit No. 1

“Institute on Religious Life”

Special Honorees Canons Regular of St. John Cantius

The Institute on Religious Life invites you to the Mystical Rose Gala Saturday November 9, 2019 The Cuneo Mansion & Gardens 1350 North Milwaukee Avenue Vernon Hills, Illinois 4:00 pm Reception and a viewing of the Family’s extensive collection of fine art and furnishings 5:30 pm Dinner Master of Ceremonies For more Information Call Drew Mariani 847-573-8975 Relevant Radio

7-10 July-August2019 2.indd 30 7/12/19 11:37 AM