“Until Christ is formed in you”
These words of St. Paul, adopted by Joseph De Piro for the students during formation in the Missionary Society of St. Paul, ring so true for the MSSP Oratory! Over several years so many, priests, brothers and dedicated lay people have given wholeheartedly to this place to be a hub for learning, youth, and families. We give thanks to God for the faithfulness of so many people who have blessed this place since 1910!
We have come to the point now where a model is in place on how to minister and how to be present to the Word of God and to the Eucharistic Liturgy. Many people who attend regularly now know what to expect, and have become part of this journey. Some are struck by the beauty – in spite of the simplicity – of this place; others come out of curiosity, or simply by accepting an invitation from a friend. Whatever the reason which brings people here, one and all are always welcome and our one desire is that people experience the presence of God in prayer, celebration, and communal sharing.
As for us, a missionary congregation in the Pauline tradition, we hold dearly the words St. Paul said to the Corinthians: I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow (1 Cor 3:6). As we watch the present moment at the Oratory with joy, we remain focused on our missionary task of bringing the Good News to those who need it most in our society. While bearing in mind, our Founder’s motto taken from psalm 127, “unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labour in vain”, with increasing lay participation in our ministry and charism, we hope to chart forward a way which ensures that the growth we have been blessed with over the last few years, by God’s grace will continue to flourish and become that tree which bears much fruit in witness, and joy.
Fr. Frankie Cini MSSP
MSSP Regional Superior