George Matulaitis Journal

135 discussion. In this manner we would truly be participating in the life of the Church, drinking deeply of her spirit to be able to respond to her needs and desires. From what other source can we draw in the true spirit of the Church if not from the papal encyclicals and other writings containing the precepts, directives, and admonitions of the Holy Father? April 13 We had our monthly day of recollection today. My resolutions are the same as those I made last time. I shall take care to start working as soon as I return to my room. Saint Joseph, patron of the Church, look kindly upon our little family. Foster its growth and nurture it as you did the Holy Family at Nazareth. Teach us to love Jesus and Mary. Teach us to serve Jesus and Mary, to devote ourselves to them, and to live for them. A few days ago I read that the Holy Father has given his approbation to the Canons Regular of the Immaculate Conception. 1 God gave me a special light that, among other things, we should combine our religious life and discipline with parish work. I have been turning this idea over in my mind for a long time. It has often occurred to me: why should we religious not take up parish work? What a promising field it is and how very important! Why not begin to develop our ministry in this field? But I was always rather unsure whether such work is really compatible with the duties of our religious life and also whether the Congregation for Religious would approve. Now all my doubts have disappeared. The Holy Father has not only approved this way of life but has also indicated that he is pleased with it. Circumstances had already more or less forced us to accept parish work, but now we can be at peace and carry on boldly what we have begun. We must make it a general rule to serve our bishops whenever possible. Lord, help us to do this well. 1 A religious community of priests whose Constitutions were ratified March 11, 1913. It was founded by Dom Adrian Grea in France in 1866. Its purpose was to combine religious life with parish work. It proved to be very successful in England, Canada, and Peru.