George Matulaitis Journal

Russia? a) Bishops who are good pastors; who are not only talented politicians, diplomats and administrators, but who are, above all, good, devoted shepherds. Practicing diplomacy with the Russian government is of little value, while a bishop filled with the Spirit of God is, at least, able to strengthen the people’s faith, and zealous, courageous and industrious priests can count on his support for their work and their plans. b) Too much fear, diffidence, and cringing before the civil authorities can be observed among us. We should learn to say: “Non possumus” (“We cannot”—do such and such). c) Priests and bishops ought to keep their distance from the Department 1 and its officials, although the Department is very anxious that the bishops continually consult it so that it would become the center of our (Catholic) life. It is quick to make use of its system of intimidation, house searches, etc. It is important to adopt the right attitude: not to be afraid to suffer for the Church and boldly to continue along the way shown us in the Gospel. There was talk of many other things, but I cannot repeat them. 2 I am convinced that it is a good thing to make a personal visit in Rome every once in a while. It is very useful when one is personally known there. The best thing is to transact one’s business directly with the cardinals, not only with their secretaries. 121 1 The Department of Public Cult supervised all religious activities, but especially those of the Catholic Church in the territories ruled by Russia. 2 In the original, the authors’ signatures placed here. The following remarks are a postscript.