Opinions, Conferences, Sayings and Instructions

Priest and founder of the Marist Brothers, Saint Marcellin Champagnat (1789-1840) dedicated himself to the instruction of children and youth during the harsh aftermath of the French Revolution. He renewed the classroom setting and formed thousands of Christian teachers both from among his own religious brothers and the many who would later follow his method of education. This collection of the works of Father Champagnat offers a rare combination: mature theological instruction integrated into a practical how-to manual of holiness full of concrete examples. Champagnat brings the wisdom of the cloister into the classroom. To prepare holy and effective religious, he develops the essential link between authentic personal holiness and subsequent effectiveness in our work, ministries, and households all without watering down the demands of the Gospel. Anyone working with youth today will find his advice relevant and piercing as he zealously promotes a sanctity that is contagious. Father Champagnat s teaching leaves no stone unturned, touching on everything from community life, effective leadership and obedience, mental and vocal prayer, fasting and other disciplines, how to work with young people, and most of all, how to keep a burning love for Jesus Christ and His Passion as the fount and foundation of all religious life.