Part 1 - Vocation
| Part 1 Vocation |
Part 2 Mission |
Part 3 Japan |
Part 4 The Dream |
esus asked, “What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?” (Matt. 16:26a). The words were repeated to a young teacher of philosophy who had a highly promising career on academics, with success and a life of prestige and honor before him. He was quite an athlete, too, distinguishing himself especially in the jump competitions.
Francis Xavier, 24 at the time, and living and teaching in Paris, did not heed these words at once. They came from a good friend, Ignatius of Loyola, whose tireless persuasion finally won the young man to Christ. In 1534, Francis then made the Spiritual Exercises under the direction of Ignatius, and joined his little community. Thus he was one of the original company of six who, on Aug. 15 1534, at Montmartre, joined with Ignatius Loyola in taking vows in the infant Society of Jesus.
Two years later, the seven “companions” walk from Paris to Venice, crossing the Alps in the middle of winter. Francis’ joy and good humor are uplifting and contagious.
“What profit would there be for one to gain the whole world and forfeit his life?”
(Matt.
16:26a)
In Venice Francis works in the Hospital for the Incurables, where he came in contact with the harsh reality of syphilis. Here he tended to those dying of the dreaded disease. It was here that he was able finally to overcome his fear of disease and death, courage he would need for his future mission. He gave of himself with such dedication and spirit of sacrifice and penance, that his health was affected. This time in Venice with his companions, however, proved to be a practical preparation for their ordination. By working with the poor in hospitals and teaching catechism to children, they learned a new way of being priests and ministering within the church. Together they were ordained priests in 1537, and not long after Francis is called to Rome to be Ignatius’ secretary.
(From Xaverian Mission Newsletter)