The Members of the Community

53. Following the example and teaching of Father Champagnat, the community sees the young Brother as a gift from God and a sign of Mary's care for us¹. He brings to us the richness of a young man's heart and mind, with its enthusiasm and its quest for authenticity. In a community where he is welcomed and encouraged, he finds community life a setting that strengthens him in his vocation.

A mature Brother, enriched as he is by the experience of his successes and failures, contributes his dynamism and balance to the community, and, in return, receives support and encouragement to enter ever more fully into his vocation.

The perseverance of the elderly Brother is a living sign of the Lord's faithfulness. He does not see his life's work as finished, but tries to render whatever service he can, and takes a lively interest in the Brothers engaged in the active apostolate. By his prayer and the offering up of his sufferings, he carries on an effective apostolate. The community holds him in deep respect and affection.