Location: Mt. Angel, OR
As we gather to commemorate the 25th anniversary Félix Rougier House of Studies, we are reminded of the sacred vocation entrusted to us as Missionaries of the Holy Spirit. This milestone is not just a reflection of years passed, but a testament to the fidelity of God, who has called each of you to be brothers in formation, formators and facilitators of formation in different ways. You are called to form others, to guide them on their spiritual journey, and, most importantly, to live out the Spirituality of the Cross bearing witness to Christ.
In today’s readings, we see powerful imagery of God’s Spirit at work, not confined to human expectations or institutional boundaries. In the first reading, from the Book of Numbers, Moses shares the Spirit given to him with 70 elders. Even those who were not present receive the Spirit and prophesy.
This reminds us that the Holy Spirit moves freely, empowering individuals in ways that may surprise us. The Holy Spirit transcends human limitations, calling each of us to recognize and foster His gifts in others, even those we may not expect.
Similarly, the Gospel from Mark reminds us that the Lord’s mission is broader than our group or institution. When the disciples question someone casting out demons in Jesus’ name, Jesus responds, “Do not stop him, for whoever is not against us is for us.” As formators, this is a lesson for you: the Holy Spirit is at work beyond your immediate community, and even beyond your intentions within your community. Pope Francis has said: “The Spirit creates and inspires institutions, but he himself cannot be institutionalized, objectified. The wind blows where it wills; in the same way the Spirit distributes his gifts as he wills.”
Your role is not to control the movement of the Spirit but to foster it, wherever it appears, in those you serve.
This formation house, over the past 25 years, has been an oasis of spirituality in the desert. It is a place where God’s grace flows freely, nurturing those called to His service. But as an oasis, your mission is not merely to offer refuge; it is to send forth those formed here into the wilderness of the world around you, strengthened by the Holy Spirit, ready to surrender their lives to God and neighbor, just as Christ surrendered Himself on the Cross.
Encouraged by the protection of Our Lady of Guadalupe, continue committing yourselves to this sacred task. Be open to the Holy Spirit, and allow your lives, like Christ’s, to be poured out in love and service. In this way, you will not only honor this legacy of 25 years, but also contribute to the building of God’s People.
