Francis Xavier, total belonging to God, neighbor and himself

“Holiness is based on love of God, which is the first and greatest commandment, the invigorating flame of the Christian life. If any Saint on earth ever emulated the highest Seraphim, it was, without doubt, St. Francis Xavier.

From the day of his conversion to the last day of his life, he grew unceasingly in love and he was consumed by this love when he was only 46 years old. […]. God’s love made him grow constantly in the love of neighbor. His desire was to lead all who had strayed back to the home of the heavenly Father, and conquer all the pagans to the Gospel. This is why he abandoned his homeland, embarked on long journeys over land and sea, covering every inch of immense territories to announce the Good News to all. In the face of much suffering, he exultantly exclaimed: more, Lord, more! […] Let us take inspiration from his example and let us always remember that, if we wish to be worthy Apostles of the Gospel, we too must dedicate ourselves entirely to God and neighbor”.

(St. Guido M. Conforti, Parola del Padre 45, July–August 1923)

Reflection by Amato Dagnino, SX:

Conforti invites us to imitate St. Francis Xavier: ”like him, we too must belong entirely to God and our neighbor”. Conforti tells us that this statement sums up the great law of the apostolate.

First and foremost, we must belong entirely to God. A truly fruitful apostolate is impossible without a high degree of union with God. We must convince ourselves that our apostolate will be more effective when we are less caught up by activities.

Secondly, we must be entirely dedicated to our neighbor. Our love for our brothers and sisters is concurrent and proportionate to our love for God. If we live in this way, our apostolate will never harm us, even if it is long-term and absorbing. Today there is a pressing need for action and contemplation.