austraLasia - 5562(I)_Work and Temperance: Bl. Bronislaw Markiewicz

20210201_WOR-(0).jpg

100 years since Michaelites canonical foundation

World, 29 January 2021 -- One of the Salesian Family Blesseds, highlighted during the recent SF Spirituality Days (video) is Blessed Bronislaw Markiewicz (1842-1912) of Polish origin, who after joining the Salesian Congregation, on his return to Poland founded two Congregations of St. Michael the Archangel (Priests and Brothers; Sisters). In 2021 the Michaelite Congregation celebrates the Centenary of their canonical approval by the Archbishop of Krakow (9 years after the death of its Founder), while the CSMA received Pontifical approval in 1966.

Fr Bronislaw met Don Bosco after 18 years of diocesan priestly life (ordained in 1867, diocese of Przemysl, Poland) and brings to his new Congregations many essential elements from Salesian spirituality - focus on poor youth, Preventive system of Don Bosco, his motto 'Work and Temperance' and especially this personal zeal to witnessing Christ through personal example. During Fr Rua's term as Rector Major he left the Salesian Society after his return to Poland in order to found the two Michaelite Congregations.

It was good to watch the Michaelites presentation video (FB) during the recent EAO Salesian Family Spirituality Days. The video text is available on Boscolink: Life, Spirituality, Mission and present development of this Congregation.

The Michaelites have been in the EAO region for more than 50 years (first presence in PNG) and since 2013 they have erected a canonical Pacific Vice-province (PNG - Australia, with headquarters in Sydney). PNG - presence in the Highlands with 4 parishes and Australia - presence in the Sydney area with another 4 parishes. According to their website, there are 400 CSMA members (priest, clerics and brothers) spread across 15 countries (Latin America, North America, Oceania and Europe) in 52 canonical communities, with two formation houses - Paraguay and Papua New Guinea). The Michaelites are spreading the devotion to St Archangel Michael and their Lay Mission Society supports the PNG mission with great generosity.

Unfortunately the Michaelites was the only SF group in the EAO region who missed the recent first online SF spirituality days (Jan 15-17,2021). Our hope is that in both countries (Australia and PNG) deeper Salesian Family bonds can be established.

Opening Prayer (January 30)

Almighty and merciful God,

you chose Blessed Bronislaw to be a father

and protector of abandoned youth.

Grant that we may be encouraged

by his example of hard work and temperance

to carry out your will faithfully

and zealously serve you.

Blessed Bronislaw Markiewicz, pray for us!