One Heart and One Spirit
We
come from different cultures, continents and nations. We have
different outlooks. But we are brought together by the Spirit of
Pentecost into one larger community, the Spiritan Congregation. Our
cultural diversity is welcomed as a positive force. By coming
together from so many different places and cultures, we are saying to
our brothers and sisters that the unity of the human race is not just
an impossible dream. In this way, our community life is an integral
part of our mission and a powerful witness to the message of the
gospel. We take for our motto the words used to describe the early
Christian communities: "One heart and one spirit."
We draw inspiration from each other, especially from the courageous faith of those who live and work in difficult situations, sometimes in conflict and war; but also from the faithful and undramatic example of others with whom we share a home.
We ourselves are in need of what we strive to bring to others -
friendship, respect,
mutual help, acceptance of our differences, a readiness to challenge
and be challenged, love and joy. Authentic community life means more
than living together under one roof; presence, communication,
listening with respect and sharing are called for. Each individual
according to his gifts - young, old, in health, in sickness - has
gifts from which all draw benefits.
The following elements are characteristic of Spiritan community life: a regular rhythm of prayer and shared meals, discussion and reflection on our life, periods of common recreation, being prepared to challenge each other in a caring and loving way, reconciliation where the need arises, simplicity and a welcoming hospitality.
The witness of our aging and sick confreres is another way in which we proclaim the values of the Kingdom. Their prayers and sacrifices are simple a continuation of the missionary work they accomplished when they were younger and fitter. Retirement communities can be places of deep faith, hope and joy.
There is increased collaboration at the regional and international level within the Congregation. Those regions which have - whether it be personnel, expertise or finance - share with those which have not.
We collaborate wherever possible with other persons or groups whether this be lay people, other Churches or religious groups, development agencies, or any other bodies with similar objectives. We bring to the local Church our own special charism and world-view. We assist it to develop a missionary awareness. We respect and encourage the ministry of lay people in the Church and in their wider society. We are becoming more aware of our duty to work for the recognition of the dignity and rights of women both in society and in the Church.
We now look upon other Christians and other religions as brothers and sisters and agents of collaboration. Many of us work in close collaboration with them. We are ready to collaborate with any organizations with whom we share common objectives. We wish to eradicate clericalism as an obstacle to real cooperation.
