Eugene de Mazenod: History, Spirituality and Mission
Credit Level (MDiv and MA)
COURSE DESCRIPTION
The course is spread over twelve classes and counts for a total of two credits for M.Div and 3 credits for MA students.
It seeks to understand the life of St. Eugene de Mazenod (1782-1861) and the significance of his charism for the Church and for all involved in the mission and spirituality inspired by him. (Non-OMI students who participate in it are accompanied in applying this methodology to their founding figure. Their assignments are always on their founder and charism.) This course is offered every semester.
DESIRED STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES
Upon completion the students will
Objective 1: understand the life and times of Saint Eugene de Mazenod and the founding of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate
Objective 2: be familiar with the writings of Eugene de Mazenod
Objective 3: describe the significance of the charism of Eugene de Mazenod for the Church and for all those who are involved in the mission and spirituality inspired by him
Objective 4: identify, articulate and deepen their own missionary spirituality
COURSE CONTENTS
1 An overview of the life of Eugene de Mazenod (1782 – 1861) in relation to the historical and social background of France and the Church.
2 “A wooden cross and a crown of thorns are above this coat of arms in the place of the ornaments that I witness to have renounced”
The first twenty-five years, during which God formed and prepared his future co-operator through events and people.
A noble childhood in Aix en Provence. Exile and significant teachers in the College of Nobles, Don Bartolo Zinelli in Venice and the Cannizzaro family in Sicily. Return to Aix.
Their long-term effects on Eugene’s life and ministry
3 “Can I ever forget the sight of the Cross one Good Friday?”
Eugene’s conversion journey to become a cooperator of Christ the Savior: his conversion and discernment of being called to discipleship
4 “I devoted myself to the Church because she was suffering persecution, was abandoned…”
Vocational discernment, formation in St Sulpice, ordination.
5 “My chief occupation will be to love Him, my chief concern to make Him loved."
The new faces of the poor: the first years of ministry: 1812 - 1815
6 “Read this letter at the foot of the Cross”.
Inviting others to share his vision: The foundation of the Missionaries of Provence in response to the needs of the poor.
7 “Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate”
Incarnating their experience and spirit in a Rule of Life.
Papal approval and its significance
8 “They are co-operators of the Savior.”
The Mission of the Oblates 1816 - 1841
Mission preaching, permanent missions, shrine ministry and seminary formation’
9 “Here is a vast field opening up to our zeal”
Missions outside of France (1841 – 1861)
North America, Europe, USA, Asia and Africa
10 “Our duty is to rush to where there is the most urgent need”
Eugene and the Diocese of Marseilles
The diocese and city of Marseilles 1823 – 1861. Eugene as Vicar General of Bishop Fortuné de Mazenod. The Icosia affair. Eugene de Mazenod as Bishop of Marseilles and his response to the challenges of an expanding city
11 “Practice among yourselves charity … charity…. charity… and outside, zeal for the salvation of souls.”
Eugene as Superior General of an expanding congregation (1841 – 1861)
12 “The missionary crosses must be passed on to the new Oblates who will profit from such a heritage."
Saint Eugene’s charism and spirituality as the foundation of the ongoing charism and spirituality of the Mazenodian Family, religious and laity.
RESOURCES
The students will be referred to selected writings of Eugene de Mazenod, as well as to relevant review articles and sections of books during the course. These will all be available online.