Ad Honorem Immaculatae Conceptionis Mariae Oblatio

122 Poverty, the sharing of goods, even spiritual goods, has been from the beginning the basis of fraternal communion. The poverty of indi- vidual members, which brings with it a simple and austere life-style, not only frees them from the concerns inherent in private ownership but it also enriches the community, enabling it to serve God and the poor more effectively. 36 This clearly demonstrates the absolute need for selflessness, which un- doubtedly affects the functioning of the community and the accomplish- ment of its mission in the Church and the world. Faithfulness to the idea of total poverty and reliance on the community, which Saint Stanislaus Papczyński fulfilled in his life, is reflected in the Constitutions of the Congregation. First of all, they emphasize the non-ma- terial aspect of this vow. In the modern world, especially in Western coun- tries, it is scarcely right to say that religious are lacking things. The basis of the vow of poverty is not material shortage – although it is worth experi- encing it sometimes – but above all, it is an imitation of Christ and of Mary, the rejection of unnecessary attachments, and trust in an eternal reward. 37 It can be said, therefore, that theoretically, the Congregation of Marian Fa- thers is also faithful to the Founder’s idea of poverty, and the realization of this vow in practice can become not only a catalyst for the spiritual growth of the entire community, but also an indicator of whether there is unity among the confreres of a given community. After all, a lack of unity causes a lack of freedom in regard to material goods, and the desire to appropriate. Faithfulness to the Church Speaking of our holy Father Founder’s self-offering to God, we also men- tioned another aspect of this act, that is “obedience to His Holiness the Vic- ar of Jesus Christ and to his delegated official authorities,” 38 which does not require further comment. However, the Oblatio also indicates yet another aspect of fidelity to the Church. Namely, the Founder speaks of faithfulness to the Church’s teaching: “I confess that I believe in everything that the 36 Fraternal Life in Community, 44. 37 Cf. CM 44-45. 38 Oblation , in: Historical Writings of Blessed Stanislaus Papczyński , Stockbridge, 2007, p. 29.