If we are tempted to think that the Youth Congregation consisted of dull “holier-than-thou” young people, the section on games in the Rule dispels all that. Eugene taught the youth that to play properly was to pray properly and that God was equally reachable on the playground as in the chapel.
First article. Games and amusements of decent recreation are regarded as one of the foundations of the Congregation. In the Congregation we claim that we go as directly to God through this means as we do in prayer. We consider them to be a very effective means of salvation in the designs of Providence when done in moderation, and according to the intentions of the Lord, who wants to cooperate with all that is honest and consistent with good order for the spiritual growth of those who have been chosen. “All things work together for good for those who love God” [ed. Rom 8:28].
Statuts, Chapitre IX – Des jeux et divertissements
Sports is human life in microcosm. ~Howard Cosell
Now this aspect of their formation I like. After all…
“Jesus was noted as a partier, and worst of all, one who partied with outcasts and sinners. Over and over again we see Jesus in situations that were celebratory, situations of laughter and happiness. And in these situations he seems to be concerned with bringing celebration and laughter and happiness into lives that were often too short of them.
More than that, when Jesus talked about his Kingdom he often compared it to a party, to a place of laughter and celebration. The Kingdom Parables are virtually teeming with festivity and merriment. The parable of the lost sheep, the lost coin, and the lost or prodigal son all have the element of celebration and joy central to them. The parable of the children of the bride chamber challenges us: How is it possible not to celebrate as long as Messiah is come? The parable of the wedding feast compares the Kingdom to a celebration where those who refuse to celebrate and make merry will be replaced with those who will.
I could go on, but my point is that in the Bible, Christ and His Kingdom are full of laughter and celebration. And a central discipleship theme in the Bible is bringing these wonderful human dimensions into people’s lives that are void of them. As a Christian, not only is it Christ-like to be a joyous and festive person, but it is a Kingdom orientation to conspire with Christ to bring these elements to bear in people’s lives where brokenness, hurt and grief rule the day. “O Lord, be my helper! You have turned my mourning into dancing; you have taken off my sackcloth and clothed me with joy.” (Psalm 30:10-11)