MARIANS IN 1670-1788 106 In the legislation concerning the Marians, the apostolic element is becoming increasingly evident. Following the example of Fr. Stanislaus, the Marians gradually became increasingly involved in pastoral and missionary work.161 Three preserved testimonies from the years 1690, 1692, and 1699 provide valuable information about the missionary work of the Marians at that time in two locations on the eastern outskirts of Poland.162 Bishop Hieronim Wierzbowski left the best testimony of their work in a recommendation letter addressed to the Holy See in 1699.163 In incredibly commendable words, he listed the merits of the Marian Fathers who vigorously worked in the extensive Poznań diocese and other parts of the Kingdom, especially among the simple people unfamiliar with the truths of faith. He emphasized that they were necessary and valuable, “equipped with the knowledge, virtues and exemplary life.”164 The above document, emphasizing Fr. Papczyński’s merits in forming the Congregation and sanctifying its members, clearly and explicitly highlights the active nature of the Order, expressed in assisting parish priests in pastoral work, especially in teaching the simple people the basics of faith. Ultimately, this Marian charism was confirmed in Pope Innocent XII’s November 24, 1699 rescript, which referred to the Marians as the “Order of Marian Fathers providing help to the deceased and parish priests.”165 The decree underlined their obligation to provide pious assistance to the souls in Purgatory and help parish priests cooperate with them in administering the Sacraments and teaching the faithful the truths of the faith. 161 S. Papczyński, The Rule of Life, I, note 2, in: Selected Writings, p. 57. 162 See the chapter Lost Foundations from the Times of Father Papczyński. 163 Positio, Papczyński, pp. 522- 525. Bishop Jerome Wierzbowski was appointed as the administrator of the Poznań Diocese on March 11, 1699. He had a close relationship with Father Papczyński and other Marians. He supported the Congregation in obtaining papal approval. 164 Ibid, p. 525. 165 Ibid, pp. 544-546. “Et cum honore, seu exercitio exhibendi pia suffragia pro animabus in purgatorio existentibus, ac praestandi Parochis subsidium et iuvamentum In administratione Sacramentorum, quam instrutionem Christi Fidelium.”
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