iServi News | 21 February 2020 | Term 1, Week 3
Solemnity of the Seven Holy Founders
On Tuesday 17 February, we celebrated the Solemnity of the Seven Holy Founders of the Order of the Servants of Mary (OSM), one of the most important celebrations for the Servites. These seven holy men were merchants before they changed direction to follow the footsteps of Jesus. Living in brotherhood and inspired by the examples of the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary, these men devoted their lives to serve the people of God.
To see the Servite friars, sisters and students nowadays is very fulfilling for members of the Servite Order, and all members of the Servite community. It shows that the Servite charisms are alive today. Personally, I feel so proud to be a member of this community, because I am sharing a mission with these holy men to continue their works.
In celebrating this feast day, we are reminded that us that we should be living for others and not for ourselves; to do the will of God and not our own will. The way of life chosen by the Seven Holy Founders is an example for us of how we take care of one another and support each other through the challenges of life. From the positive relationships formed between these men, we see that great relationships are built on appreciating similarities and respecting differences.
As members of this Servite community, we are inspired by the examples of our forefathers to live a life full of love and respect. We are all called ‘Servite’. A name that reminds us as students, staff, friars and sisters that whatever we are doing, we answer the call of our vocation.
For 2020, let us ask for the guidance of the blessed and saints of the Order, especially the seven men who founded the organisation, 787 years ago. Our community mirrors that first community of the Servants of Mary. Let us all journey together to continue the mission of our founders. Once a Servite, always a Servite.
Fra Ruben Cardona, OSM
College Chaplain