Protecting their Heritage 

Reflection on the 19^th of October, 2023

Introduction/prayer

Our founders were known for their unwavering commitment to the marginalized and the deprived. Their lives were dedicated to serving the poor, the sick, and the suffering. Their compassion knew no bounds, and they saw the face of God in every person they helped especially neglected children. Their approach to charity and social services were not mere charity, but rather a profound understanding of the inherent dignity of every human being. This understanding forms the core of their heritage.

One of the primary components of preserving their heritage is by ensuring that their values and teachings are not mislaid to the passage of time. The legacies they left behind are not mere relics of history; but it is a living and breathing testament to the transformative power of empathy and service. To protect their heritage, it’s of significance, that we replicate their enduring relevance of principles taking into considerations the signs of time.

Their vision was not limited to their own actions but extended to creating lasting institutions that would continue the mission. They founded the Congregation of the Brothers of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary (FIC), a Congregation that has been instrumental in carrying forward their humanitarian works. Brothers FIC as a Congregation has played a pivotal role in safeguarding this heritage by institutionalizing their values and ensuring they are passed down through generations and today you and I are part of that mission.

Furthermore, protecting their heritage also involves preserving the physical spaces associated with their lives and works. Their birthplaces and various locations connected to their charitable endeavors serves as important historical sites. These places remind us of the real impact of their actions and the environments where they selflessly served others. Through careful preservation and restoration, these sites can continue to inspire visitors and pilgrims.

Their legacies are not confined to the boundaries of any one faith or community. Their universal message of compassion and service transcends religious affiliations and speaks to the innate goodness in humanity. Therefore, protecting their heritage requires of us to collaborate and cooperate among diverse groups and organizations, both religious and secular, who share a common commitment to the principles they espoused.

In today's fast-paced and materialistic world, their heritage serves as a touching reminder of the importance of selflessness, empathy, and social justice. The heritage of our founders challenges us to reevaluate our priorities, to look beyond our own needs and comforts, and to consider the well-being of those less privileged. It calls upon us to break the cycle of indifference and to actively engage in acts of charity and kindness. 

One of the most remarkable aspects of our founders’ heritage is its adaptability and resilience. Their principles can be applied to contemporary challenges, such as poverty, homelessness, healthcare disparities, and social injustice. As we strive to protect their heritage, we must also be opened to reinterpretation and innovation on how we address these issues. Their teachings are not static; they evolve to meet the changing needs of society while staying true to their core values.

In conclusion, protecting their heritage is not just a historical or religious obligation; it is a moral imperative. Their lives and work continue to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for people of all backgrounds. Preserving this heritage means ensuring that the values of compassion, service, and social justice remain central in our collective consciousness. It means nurturing the institutions (Schools and other apostolate areas) that carry on their mission and adapting their teachings to address the challenges of our time. Their legacies are a gift to humanity, one that we must cherish, protect, and pass on to future generations.