THE CROSS OF JESUS CHRIST IS CENTRAL TO OUR MISSION (Constitution 4)

Posted on March 17, 2025 by franksantucci

The cross of Jesus Christ is central to our mission (Constitution 4)

Having looked at our call and response in Constitutions 1 and 2, we now move onto Constitution 4 which is the pivotal point of our vocation as Christians in the Oblate Family.

Eugene’s conversion journey is well known to us, and so it comes as no surprise to understand that the cross was central to his life and mission – and to ours.

Eugene’s spiritual journey is summed up in our Constitution 59, referring to our novices, but applicable to each of us, today:

Novitiate formation ends with a free and faith-filled commitment in the Oblate Congregation. The novice, having experienced the Father’s love in Jesus, dedicates his life to making that love visible. He entrusts his fidelity to the one whose cross he shares, whose promises are his hope.

Then, Constitution 63, picks up on the same idea:

The Oblate cross which is received at perpetual profession is a constant reminder of the love of the Saviour who wishes to draw all hearts to himself and sends us out as his co-workers.

What is said about the cross in the first vows of the novices and the lifetime oblation of the post-novices, applies to the vocation of each member of the Oblate Charismatic Family: Indeed the cross of Jesus Christ is central to our life, spirituality and mission!

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1 Response to THE CROSS OF JESUS CHRIST IS CENTRAL TO OUR MISSION (Constitution 4)

  1. Eleanor Rabnett, Oblate Associate says:
    March 17, 2025 at 13:35

    “The cross of Jesus Christ is central to our mission.” The truth is we cannot live our professed way of being without the cross. To try to lessen the importance of the cross is to also say that the Resurrection is no big deal.

    I think of the beautiful statue of St. Eugene which portrays him striding forward with his right hand is extended as he holds his mission cross out before him: a statue that can be found on the exterior wall of the Klokoty Mission Church in Tabor, Czech Republic, and in a small apse on the left side of the entrance as one enters the chapel in the Oblate General House in Rome. It is a true portrayal of how Eugene’s life is a response to how Jesus lived and died. We too are found among the many faces of the poor in this world.

    And while we might not actually stride around holding a crucifix, people seem to recognize it being a part of us as we allow ourselves to be sent out as pilgrims of hope in communion. . It is in this way that we can truly say that we are called “To live Christ Jesus crucified”

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