George Matulaitis Journal

162 Vilnius we have decided to make all entries in Latin. Sample copies of the parish registers are already in print. 7) We discussed the foundation of religious communities and also the giving of retreats, parish missions, and so on, but we must let things be for the present. 8) We need to have a consultation about how we will introduce the requirements of the new Code of Canon Law 1 into our daily lives. At five o’clock on the same day I invited the priests of the city to discuss what we will do and how we will prepare the people for the coming of the Bolsheviks. l) I briefly outlined what I had in mind: that they should emphasize the ideals of Christ in a positive way, taking care to bring out those matters of Faith that are under attack. Outright arguments and political controversies should be avoided in sermons and so on. I listened to the priests’ opinions about the current state of affairs and what measures we might take to prevent or minimize the various evils that can occur. Various methods were suggested: suitable sermons, brochures, leaflets, and appropriate articles in the newspapers; also to keep in touch with the faithful by visiting homes, especially at Christmas; good organization in the administration of the sacraments and encouraging the faithful to receive them and keep up their devotional practices. It would be a good idea to have question boxes so that the workers could be instructed, especially when in doubt, or when they had to respond to attacks on their faith. 2) We decided to have Masses of reparation in all the churches of Vilnius by turn, with appropriate sermons. I asked the dean to call the pastors together to determine the order of these Masses and topics for the sermons. 3) I announced that parish records were to be kept in Latin and that sample books were already in print. 1 On May 27, 1917, Pope Benedict XV had introduced the new Code of Canon Law, effective May 19, 1918. The bishops were responsible for introducing it into their own dioceses.