Marist Missionaries

91. The Brothers whom the Lord sends out to spread the Good News as missionaries must prepare themselves carefully for their task.

The Brothers are quick to recognise the gospel values already present in the diverse cultures¹, and, by their service and example², they help to purify whatever in these cultures is out of harmony with the Gospels. By the way they work to promote these values, they attest to the quality of each culture. In so doing, they gain new vigour in their Marist missionary spirit. The style of life they lead helps their integration into the country to which they have been sent.³ Like Mary, they withdraw as soon as their presence is no longer needed.

Local Brothers are to be given the training they need, and are to be encouraged to assume gradually the full responsibility for their Province or District. It is through them that the inculturation of Marist life is to be achieved.

91.1 The Province has the duty of maintaining the missionary spirit of its members. When it has no mission area of its own, it frees some of its Brothers for work in the mission sectors of the Institute. The demanding nature of missionary life calls for a careful choice of the Brothers who are sent.

91.2 The Brothers see to it that the missionary spirit is aroused in young people. Each Marist aspirant must be told that he can become a missionary.

91.3 Major Superiors promote the establishment of regional Marist centres specifically designed for the formation of Brothers from the young Churches.

91.4 During the first years of their missionary experience, Brothers must have the time and the means of studying the local language.