537 - October 2013
August 26th, 2013 - October 1st, 2013

OFFER YOUR LIFE TO GOD

At the end of the Oblate World Youth Days in Aparecida, Brazil, each pilgrim received the gift of some sandals and a letter addressed personally to them by the Superior General, Fr. Louis LOUGEN. For the interest of all, we publish it here.

Praised be Jesus Christ and Mary Immaculate!

Dear young missionary,

Peace! These days in Aparecida have been full of sharing, celebration, Faith and commitment. We have grown much as an Oblate Family in charity and in zeal through Saint Eugene. We feel so grateful for this marvelous experience.

This letter and the sandals are a reminder that the missionary journey of life and Faith takes us even more deeply into the mystery of Christ Jesus. This journey calls for committed persons and we must pray that there be young adults--married, single, missionaries, sisters, brothers and priests-- committed to the mission of Jesus.

One fundamental dimension of the mission of Jesus was to take the initiative in calling others by name, personally, to follow him forever and a lifetime. I make this call to each one of you: reflect on God’s call in your own life! Can it be that Jesus is calling you to be a missionary--priest, brother, or sister--as an Oblate of Mary Immaculate? Think about this and pray over it in your own life. Don’t be afraid! Don’t hesitate! Or perhaps you know other young persons of firm Faith, generous and dedicated. Invite them personally, by name, to think about this possibility. Encourage them to discern a missionary vocation!

The Church needs you. The Oblates need you. The poor are waiting for you. Be brave and, in a prayerful attitude, reflect on the possibility that God is calling you. Saint Eugene tells us: “Leave nothing undared!” May God give us the grace to do what He asks of us! Courage! Let us pray together to the Lord of the harvest, so that there be many good and generous workers for the mission of Jesus. Thanks for these wonderful days here, growing in Faith and in the missionary vocation.

With much love and my prayers,