Pauline Cooperator Formation Manual

My Co-Workers
in Christ Jesus
An initial formation program for
Pauline Cooperators
with Distance Learning Sessions
This Manual of Formation is

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Dedicated to Blessed James Alberione, S.S.P.

on the threshold of the 100th anniversary
of his inspiration to found the Pauline Family
Designed by:
Sr. Margaret Charles Kerry, fsp

Association of Pauline Cooperators
50 St Pauls Ave
Boston, MA 02130
Cooperators@Paulinemedia.org
and Distance Program by
Kurt Jung, Esq., Pauline Cooperator
Mt. Laurel, New Jersey
Daughters of St. Paul, United States Province

Reproduction of this manual in any shape or form
other than what is suggested for purpose of study, is not permitted.
First edition, 1999. Second edition 2010. Third edition 2012.
General Introduction for Distance Learners

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Welcome
Welcome to the Pauline Cooperator Distance Learning formation manual. The purpose of these
sessions is to introduce you to the Pauline Charism (spirituality and mission) and the Pauline
Family of Religious Congregations and Institutes.
Handbook for Pauline Cooperators
This manual is used in conjunction with the Handbook for Pauline Cooperators. It enhances the
text of the Handbook and invites the participant to prayerfully enter into Pauline spirituality.
Books, videos and tapes are suggested for use with the formation program.
Using suggested media

The required reading found at the end of each session cannot be skipped. Other suggested media,
such as music, may be substituted or found on the Internet. The recommended reading list will
allow the participant to deepen the material found in the manual. Most books are available from
Pauline Centers or found on the Internet.
United in prayer
As you enter into the formative experience, the prayers of Paulines the world over accompany you.
Every Pauline religious spends at least one hour in adoration each day and two hours of communal
prayer and meditation. Members of the Pauline Aggregated Institutes and Pauline Cooperators
also spend a portion of each day in prayer. We are united in our common spirit and desire: Glory
to God and peace to men and women on earth.
Table of Contents
Session 1: My Co-Workers in the Gospel. Phil. 1:5
Encountering Christ with Paul
Session 2: To Love is to Fulfill the Law. Rom. 13:8
Holiness and the Lay Apostolate
Session 3: Be Persevering in Your Prayers Col. 4:2
Prayers Involves the Whole Person
Session 4: God will fulfill All Your Needs. Phil. 4:19
Collaboration with the Pauline Family
Session 5: Faith Comes from Hearing. Rom. 10:17
Evangelization with the Media of Communication
Session 6: Imitate me as I imitate Christ. 1 Cor. 4:16
The Pauline Charism
ASSOCIATION OF PAULINE COOPERATORS

DISTANCE FORMATION
REQUIREMENTS FOR LEARNING AND PARTICIPATION
I. INTRODUCTION
Recognizing that all are called to spread the Gospel, the Daughters of St. Paul and the
National Association of Pauline Cooperators (APC) are challenged in enlisting the help of
Cooperators from all areas of the world, no matter how remote. To meet the goals and vision of
the Pauline founders, Father James Alberione and Mother Thecla Merlo, the APC set up a special
Distance Formation and Association Program for lay Cooperators who live in remote areas or
due to special circumstances cannot regularly attend Cooperators meetings.
Cooperators participating in the Distance Formation and Association Program are
especially challenged to participate in a new, different and innovative way of learning. The
Distance Learning Cooperator Program is designed for Single Cooperator participation or Group
Cooperator Participation. Those who elect to participate in either program are encouraged to call
other interested persons to share in the Pauline Cooperator Mission. The requirements for
participation in this Program are listed below.
II. QUALIFYING FOR THE DISTANCE FORMATION AND ASSOCIATION
PROGRAM
Those wishing to participate in the Distance Learning Program must meet one of the
following requirements:
a.
The Cooperator lives in a remote area where there are no Pauline groups within
close proximity and regular travel to attend Cooperator meetings would be unreasonably
burdensome.
b.
Due to approved personal circumstances (such as sickness, family burdens, etc.)
regular attendance at Cooperator meetings would be unreasonably burdensome. Participants
receive approval from the Office of Pauline Cooperators to qualify under this requirement.
III. DISTANCE PROGRAM FORMAT
A. COOPERATOR FORMATION
The formation period of a Pauline Cooperator consists of 18 sessions. Cooperators are
required to participate for two hours a month in Cooperator Sessions. The first phase consists of
the first six sessions and is known as the Period of Inquiry. These sessions will include a time
of prayer and reflection and will focus on topics of Pauline Spirituality and an overview of the
mission of the Cooperators.
After the first phase or six sessions are completed, the Director of the APC or her
designee will interview each participant face-to-face or by telephone to inquire whether they
want to continue the formation period.
Cooperators that wish to continue shall participate in the final 12 monthly sessions.
These sessions will focus on in-depth topics, such as the Pauline mission, the spirituality of Fr.
Alberione and Mother Thecla, etc. Cooperators completing the 12 sessions will be interviewed
one more time by the Director of the APC or her designee to determine if the Cooperator wants
to commit to a one year promise. Promises will be renewed yearly.
B. SINGLE PARTICIPANT PROGRAM
Single participants will basically follow the same format as everyone else. Participants
should pick a week (and perhaps a day) from each month to participate in the sessions. (e.g. any
day on the third week of every month or the first Monday of every month) Since one of the
goals of this program is to allow flexibility, the sessions do not have to be on the same day of the
designated week. However, the session should be completed by the end on the designated week.
For each session participants will follow the prescribed format of prayer and reflection
and an activity. Each session will have a written assignment and sometimes an activity. Single
participants are required to submit their written assignments by mail, e-mail, disk or facsimile to
the APC National Office. Activities may require communication with other cooperators or
members of the Pauline community.
C. GROUP PARTICIPATION PROGRAM
Group participation is designed for small groups of two or more laypersons. Group
participants will basically follow the same format as everyone else. Group Participants should
agree on a week and a day from each month to participate in the sessions. (E.g. the first Monday
of every month) Since one of the goals of this program is to allow flexibility, the sessions do not
have to be on the same day every month if all participants agree. However, the session should be
completed at least during the designated week. A leader shall be appointed by the National
Office of the APC to coordinate meetings, correspondence with the Regional Office, and activity
submittals.
For each session, group participants will follow the prescribed format of prayer and
reflection and an activity. Each session will have a written group assignment and sometimes an
activity. Group leaders are required to submit their written assignments by mail, e-mail, or
facsimile to the APC National or Regional Office. Activities may require communication with
other Cooperators or members of the Pauline Community.
Period of Inquiry
Session 1:
My Co-Workers in the Gospel (Phil. 1: 5)

__________________________________________________________________
Group Study Program
(Total time: two hours)
The theme for this session: Encountering Christ with Paul
Points to Cover:
-
The discernment process in view of joining the Pauline Cooperators

Reflection on what this invitation means
A brief introduction to the Pauline Family
You will need

-
A Bible
Music
Video/DVD: An introduction to the Daughters of St Paul, the Society of St. Paul or the
Pious Disciples of the Divine Master.
1. Reflection on the Word of God (Jesus Truth)

Time Allotted: 10 minutes
Each session will begin with prayer. If possible, conduct the beginning of each meeting in a chapel with the
Blessed Sacrament present. Wherever the meeting is held, open a Bible for an enthronement of the Word.
Place icons of Pauline devotions in the prayer area. Have one of the participants light a candle and invite
everyone to reflective prayer. During the Period of Inquiry (six sessions), there is a half-hour of prayer.
During the time of preparation for the Promise of the Pauline Cooperator, this may be in the form of a
time spent in adoration and contemplation.
The opening invocation

Leader:
Response:
Leader:
Response:
Leader:
Response:
Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life,

Have mercy on us.
Mary, Queen of Apostles,
Pray for us.
St. Paul the Apostle,
Pray for us.
An appropriate hymn is sung or played. Revelation Song by Kari Jobe
Silent prayer and reflection follow. After a brief period, introduce the first reading in honor of
Jesus Truth, to obtain an increase of spiritual knowledge and faith.
The Prayer before Reading Sacred Scripture
Jesus Christ, Our Master,
You are the Way, the Truth and the Life,
Our one and supreme good.
Send your Holy Spirit to teach us
and remind us of what you have preached.
Enkindle in us the fire of Your divine love
as you enkindled the hearts of the first apostles.
A reading from the Handbook for Pauline Cooperators
In his writings to the Pauline Cooperators, Fr. Alberione faithfully and constantly brought out
the following concepts, which had been of inspiration to him: On the way to Damascus, Paul met
Christ. It was a transforming encounter that made Paul comprehend the stupendous reality of the
whole Christthe historical Christ and the community of the baptized. It aroused in Pauls heart
the desire and the urgency to communicate Christ to everyone.
Choose different readers for each Bible passage.
-A reading from the Acts of the Apostles 9: 1-21
-A reading from the Galatians 1:11-24
Paul felt that to accomplish his mission he could not and must not work by himself. He therefore found collaborators to join him in preaching the
Gospel; he chose them, he formed them, he guided them. Whenever the Apostle Paul discovered and deepened his contact with God, he
continually communicated this to his collaborators.
Fr. Alberione writes: Following of Christ the Master

We consider Paul under three aspects: As teacher, model and provider.
1. As our teacher. He is called the Teacher of the Gentiles, and in truth he was the most profound
interpreter of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Jesus said to Ananias: This man is my chosen
instrument to bring my name before gentiles and kings and the people of Israel (Acts 9:15).
2. Paul is our model: He tells us: Take me for your model, as I take Christ (1Cor. 11:1). He
proposes himself as an example, not as an absolute example but as a teacher imitating Jesus Christ,
who alone is the absolute example . 3. Paul is also the provider: He prays for us that we may
have the graces necessary for our mission. He sees the needs of all. We may consider ourselves
children of Paul as St. Timothy, St. Luke, St. Lydia, St.Thecla and many others considered
themselves. They were his spiritual children who became saints and apostles (97-98).
Mother Thecla writes: Blessed are the Imitators of Mary
St. Paul says: I spend and overspend myself for others; I would like to reach everyone. And
he hastened here and there with the gospel. If he were alive now, he would be always on the move.
He would go by airplane using the fastest means to reach people (255).
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2.
Examination of Life: In honor of Jesus Way, to obtain help in the practice of virtue.
Let us take time to reflect on the personal call of Jesus in our life. It is the call we received at
Baptism, the call to grow in union with Jesus through the sacraments, the call we now feel in our
hearts to follow Christ as a Pauline apostle.
Time allotted: 10 minutes
Prayer
I believe, my God,
That I am in your presence,
That you are looking at me
And listening to my prayers.
You are so great and so holy:
I adore you.
You have given me all:
I thank you.
You have been offended by me:
I ask your pardon with all my heart.
You are so merciful:
I ask of you all the graces which you know
Are beneficial to me.
3. Group Prayer: in honor of Jesus Life, to obtain the graces necessary for our spiritual work and
for our particular needs.
Prayer after Reading Sacred Scripture

Jesus, Divine Master,
You have words of eternal life.
I believe, O Lord and Truth,
But increase my faith.
I love you, O Lord and Way, with all my strength,
Because you have commanded us to observe
Your commandments completely.
I pray to you, O Lord and Life.
I adore you, I praise you,
I beseech you, and I thank you
For the gift of Sacred Scripture.
With Mary I remember and preserve your words in my mind
And I meditate on them in my heart.
Jesus Master, Way and Truth and Life, have mercy on us.
Leader: After this prayer the leader invites the group to offer spontaneous petitions. You may
recite the optional prayer to St. Paul by Blessed John Paul II found at the end of this session.
Conclude the time of prayer together with a song. Suggestion: I Could Sing of Your Love Forever
Closing Invocations
Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life, Have Mercy on us
Mary, Queen of the Apostles, Pray for us
St. Paul the Apostle, Pray for us
From all sin, deliver us Lord
4.
The group moves from the area of prayer to the meeting area.
Distance Learners may refer to the worksheet at the end of this session.
5.
Break
6.
DVD/Video/PowerPoint Viewing
Introduction: Encounter Blessed Alberione & Paul Today

Todays theme is Encountering Christ with Paul. This is also the first session of the period of
inquiry. In order to re-introduce you to the Pauline family, this video contains a brief history of the
Pauline Family in the world and in the United States. As you are viewing this video if you have
any questions please write them down and we can discuss them after the video.
7.
Conclusion Questions are welcome.
Announce the date, time and location of the next meeting.
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References for further study

Required Reading
- Handbook for Pauline Cooperators, pgs. 18-32
- Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 22: 1-21
Recommended Reading
- Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity. Pauline Books & Media, Boston.
- Catechism of the Catholic Church. ; Articles 1-3, 55, 161, 122-124, 169, 1949-2029.
- St. Paul. Cremona, Carlos. Pauline Books & Media. Boston, 1996 (or another book on
St Pauls life).
Prayer to St. Paul by Blessed Pope John Paul II

Blessed are you, Paul of Tarsus, the apostle of the
Gentiles, the converted persecutor, the admirable love
and the witness of the crucified and risen Christ!
Blessed are you, the Apostle of Rome, rooted together
with Peter in the very beginning of the Church. Blessed
are you, steward of the mysteries of Godyou for
whom to live is Christ (Phil. 1:21); you, who desire so
much and so exclusively to be called minister of Christ
and who desire to be only thatso that your master
speaks in you. We bless you, Paul, this day, and we
thank God because before the world you became such
a great witness to the truth.
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DISTANCE FORMATION
Session 1
My Co-Workers in the Gospel

Materials Needed:
- Pencil or pen
- An Icon of Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life.
- A votive candle
- Bible
Optional:
- Picture of St. Paul and/or Mary, Queen of Apostles
- Prayerful music
You are about to embark on an exciting spiritual journey of spreading the Good News as
a Pauline Cooperator. As a long distance learner, you will be challenged to meet the formation
requirements. In many ways, you are like the early Christian Communities who were also long
distance learners. They were long distance learners in that they learned about the Good News
and performed their duties as good Christians after reading, reflecting and spreading the message
of St. Pauls long distance letters, similar to what you are about to do.
1. Turn to the outline for Session One. Since you may not be in a chapel with the Blessed
Sacrament, set up a prayerful atmosphere by placing an icon of Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and
Life in the center of a table. Lay your Bible open in front of the image remembering that Jesus is
present in the Word. If you have statues of St. Paul or Mary, Queen of Apostles, place them on
each side of your image of Jesus. Light your votive candle, silently reflecting in prayer for a few
minutes. Then begin the session following the time allotted and prayerfully reflect upon the
readings.
2. The session includes a DVD showing. Printed literature about the Pauline Family may be
read instead of the movie.
3.
After the session is finished, complete the Session Assignment Sheet and submit it to the
APC Director or e-mail Cooperators@Paulinemedia.com unless otherwise arranged.
http://Paulinelatiy.blogspot.com
www.pauline.org
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DISTANCE FORMATION
SESSION 1
MY COWORKERS IN THE GOSPEL
WRITTEN ASSIGNMENT SHEET
Name
Address
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
Phone
________________________________
E-mail Address________________________________
Answer the following questions. Write on the back or attach other sheets if more room is
needed.
1. In the reading from Acts, St. Paul was called by Jesus to live and spread the Gospel. St. Paul
describes his calling in Galatians. Think of some of the ways you have been called by Jesus to
live and spread the Gospel during your life. Discuss how your calling was similar or different
from Pauls.
2. St. Paul wrote letters to many of the Christian communities teaching about God and spreading
the Gospel. As long distance learners, the communities reflected upon Pauls writing and acted
upon his message. Fr. Alberione wrote that we should consider Paul as our teacher, our model,
and as our provider. Mother Thecla stressed that St. Paul would have used all available methods
to spread the message. As a long distance learner and cooperator, describe your ideas and
methods of how you might learn from St. Paul and help in the mission of spreading the Gospel.
What methods would you realistically use to reach as many people as possible?
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Period of Inquiry
Session 2:
To love is to fulfill the law (Rm. 13:8)

Group Study Program
The theme for this session: Holiness and the Lay Apostolate
Points to Cover:
-
An invitation to reflect on the universal call to holiness
The call to holiness in the Pauline Charism
Fr. Alberiones vision of the Pauline Cooperators
You will need

-
A Bible
Music: suggestion - The Heart of A Shepherd by John Michael Talbot
Pens or pencils
A copy of the activity found at the end of Session 2 for each participant
1.
Reflection on the Word of God (Jesus Truth)

Preferably, this time of prayer takes place in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament. Have one of
the participants light a candle. Open a Bible for an enthronement of the Word. Place the icons of
Jesus, Mary and Paul near the prayer area.
The opening invocation
Leader:
Response:
Leader:
Response:
Leader:
Response:

Have mercy on us.
Mary, Queen of the Apostles,
Pray for us.
Pray for us.
Sing or play an appropriate hymn. Lord I Give You My Heart

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Invite the participants to silent prayer and reflection. After a brief period, introduce the first
reading in honor of Jesus Truth, to obtain an increase of spiritual knowledge and faith.
Prayer
Jesus Divine Master,
I believe with lively faith
That you are here present with me.
I adore you with all my heart.
I am present before you, my Supreme Good.
Enlighten my mind; inflame my heart.
Fill me with your grace, that I may draw abundant fruit
From this spiritual reading.
-
A reading from the Handbook for Pauline Cooperators.
The mission of the Pauline Family is to announce the truth that frees, through evangelization
with the media. From this is born the desire for a deepening commitment to the Pauline Charism.
The Pauline Cooperator takes delight in and lives this Charism making it a synthesis of his own
life. Opening their hearts to the needs of the contemporary world the Pauline Cooperators will be
apostles who live, feel and act like St. Paul who imitated Jesus.
You may want to have different readers for the Bible passages.
-
A Reading from the Gospel of Matthew 5:1-12

A Reading from Pauls Letter to the Ephesians 1:1-14; 2:19-22
Suggested reflection song Because your are Chosen from Heart of A Shepherd, John Michael
Talbot or Chosen People by Bread Without Cost
Fr. Alberione writes in Growing in Perfect Union:
Our growth in holiness is mainly based on faith, for faith is the root of all holiness.
We see in God all the truth that Our Lord has revealed to us. The truth, which we consider
above all the others, is that we come from God and we will return to God. St. Paul writes: Eye
has not seen, ear has not heard, nor has it so much as dawned on man what God has prepared for
those who love Him. (1 Cor. 2:9). Faith means believing in Gods love. God wills or permits
everything for only one end, that we may reach heaven. Let us entrust ourselves to God and to His
holy will. How true it is that for Those who love God all things work together for good (Rom.
8:28).
Through his passion and death, Jesus gained grace for us. We rely on Him asking graces in His
name. Do we have reason to believe that we will reach heaven? God created us for heaven; He
has given us the means to attain it and will continue to do so. Nothing is lacking on His part. The
graces necessary for salvation are never denied to anyone.
God wills that I reach heaven and He grants me the means. It remains for me to give my
consent: to want to walk the path the Lord has marked out for me, and walk it well.
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Mother Thecla writes in her conferences: (volume III)

Among the exhortations, which St. Paul gives us in his letter to the Ephesians, I would like to
emphasize this: That the interior life may grow always more in you.
All the things that surround us are realities that end because only spiritual things are eternal: the
virtues, the holiness we can acquire every day, the life of charity. If we want the mission to
progress, the interior life must progress in us. If we want our mission to progress, it is necessary
that we nourish our interior life; it is necessary that there be holiness in the Pauline Family!
Do we think of this enough? Let us ask our Lord daily for this grace. Let us remember more
often our career the career of becoming saints.
In her final testament, Mother Thecla wrote:
I pray much for you, for everyone, that we may all attain the holiness to which we are called. I
write these things to you not only with the pen, but also with my heart. I wish you all to be saints:
for this, I have offered my lifefor everyone, that we may achieve the holiness God wants of us.
2. Evaluation of Life: In honor of Jesus Way, to obtain help in the practice of
virtue.
Let us take time to reflect on the love God has for us in calling us to a life of holiness and eternal
happiness with Him. This is the vocation we receive at baptism and the call renewed each day by
the invitation of Jesus to follow Him. Let us reflect on the following of Christ as taught by St.
Paul.
A reading from Pauls letter to the Ephesians 4:1-6, 25-31; 5: 1-5.
(Silent reflection follows)
Charisms, or spiritual gifts, are special abilities given to all Christians
by the Holy Spirit to give them the power both to represent Christ and
to be a channel of Gods goodness for people. Whether extraordinary
or ordinary, all charisms ought to be exercised in the service of God
(Catechism of the Catholic Church, 2003).
3. Group Prayer: in honor of Jesus Life, to obtain the graces necessary for our
spiritual work and for our particular needs.

Leader: (read reverently with pauses) Let us pray for each other, for the person next to us, persons
in our family, our neighbors, someone whom we especially want to remember in prayer at this
time. As we pray for each other we pray for ourselves, for God is never outdone in generosity. Let
us be generous in our prayer for each other. Let us pray together a prayer written and prayed by St.
Paul.
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Prayer
I pray, kneeling before the Father,
from whom every family, whether spiritual or natural, takes its name:
Out of his infinite glory, may he give you the power through his Spirit
for your hidden self to grow strong,
so that Christ may live in your heart through faith,
and then, planted in love and built on love,
you will with all the saints have strength to grasp
the breadth and the length, the height and the depth;
until, knowing the love of Christ, which is beyond all knowledge,
you are filled with the utter fullness of God.
Glory be to him whose power, working in us
can do infinitely more than we can ask or imagine;
glory to him from generation to generation in the Church
and in Christ Jesus forever and ever. Amen.
Eph. 3:14 -20 (Jerusalem Bible, trans.)
Leader: Invite the group to spontaneous petitions.
Close this time of prayer together with instrumental music or a song.
suggestion: Holiness
Closing Invocations
Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life, Have Mercy on Us.
Mary, Queen of the Apostles, Pray for us.
St. Paul the Apostle, Pray for us.
From all sin, deliver us Lord.
4.
The group moves from the area of prayer to the meeting area.
5.
Break (10 minutes)
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Beatification Game
In a group:
After the questions have been filled in on the previous page, the leader of the group fills
in the following beatification form and gives it to the person as a certificate reminder
of our striving for everyday holiness.
Without a group:
If this is being played by a single person in the distance program, the same rule
applies. Fill out the form with questions first and only then fill out the beatification
form.
Blessed are you, holy are you, rejoice and be glad:
The word beatification or beatified comes from the root word beatas meaning happy,
blessed. The Beatitudes are the Christian rule of life found in Jesus Sermon on the
Mount in Matthew gospel and in Lukes gospel they are found in the sermon on the
plain.
When we live the beatitudes, we find happiness and holiness. All of us are called to this
happiness and holiness. The beatitudes stem from the commandments. We find our
strength to live the commandments and beatitudes in the sacraments. Sacra mean
holy. Sacraments are external signs of inward grace. Grace is Gods gift to us. Gods
grace cannot be won or deserved. It is freely given in Gods abundant love. We
express our love in accepting this gift and living as Gods chosen ones, holy and
beloved. Paul
Copy the following page and give it to everyone to fill out.

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Todays theme is Holiness Our vocation. In order to remember our special call to holiness we
will spend the next few minutes answering questions that will assist us in remembering our
vocation to sanctity:
1.
Your full name _______________________________________________________
2.
A length of time (ex: one year, two days, ten seconds, etc.)_____________________
3.
Your first name_______________________________________________________
4.
The name of a famous person ____________________________________________
5.
A length of time ( ex: one minute, three days, etc.)____________________________
6.
A particular height ( ex: four feet, ten and 1/2 inches, etc.)_____________________
7.
The name of a person you admire__________________________________________
8.
Your first name________________________________________________________
9.
A vice (ex: impatience, ingratitude, nail biting, etc.)___________________________
10.
A virtue (ex: patience, humility, doing the dishes, etc.)_________________________
11.
Your first name________________________________________________________
12.
A place or an activity (beaches, Washington, Mars, roller-blading, etc.)____________

____________________________________________________________________
13.
A number (any number, as large or small as you decide)________________________
14.
Something that you like (eating candy, throwing snowballs, singing, etc.)__________
Note to the leader: you will find the rest of this game in the
Appendix as Beatification Answer Sheet. Here is a Google Doc Link.
Beatification Game Answer Sheet
Sharing: A Brief Overview of Pauline Sanctity. See appendix for short biographies or
hyperlink to Pauline Blesseds.
Distance learners may refer to the sheet following this session.
6.
Conclusion
Question and answer session (see tips on answering questions in the appendix).
Review the three main points of this session (refer to the beginning of the session).

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References for further study:

1. Required Reading:
a.
b.
c.
Handbook for Pauline Cooperators, pgs. 23-27

Philippians 1:27-30; 2: 1-8
John 14: 1-6
2. Recommended Reading
a. Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity Vatican II Document
Found online at Vatican.va or in the collection of Vatican II documents.
b. Catechism of the Catholic Church,
Articles 2013-14, 2028-29, 2015, 2012, 2030
Blessed James Alberione serving a Pauline friend.
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DISTANCE FORMATION AND ASSOCIATION PROGRAM
Session 2
Holiness and the Lay Apostolate
Materials Needed:
Pencil or pen
A picture or statue of Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life for veneration.
A votive candle
Bible
Optional:
Picture or statue of St. Paul and/or Mary, Queen of Apostles
Prayerful music
1. Turn to the Outline for Session 2. Since you may not be in a chapel with the Blessed Sacrament, set up a
miniature shrine on a table and place the statue or picture of Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life in the center of the
table. Enthrone your Bible open in front of the image remembering that Jesus is present in the Word. Light your
votive candle, silently reflecting in prayer for a few minutes. Then begin the session following the time allotted and
prayerfully reflect upon the readings.
2. After the session, complete the Session Assignment Sheet and submit it To the APC
Director, 50 St. Pauls Ave, Boston, MA 02130 or e-mail Cooperators@paulinemedia.com
3. The Session Assignment Sheet requires you to do some distance sharing with another
Cooperator. The name and addresses of Cooperators may be obtained from the APC Regional
Director.
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SESSION 2
HOLINESS AND THE LAY APOSTOLATE
ASSIGNMENT SHEET
Name
Address
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
Phone
________________________________
E-mail Address________________________________
Answer the following questions. Write on the back or attach other sheets if more room is needed.
1. As Christians and followers of Christ we are all called to holiness. Jesus, St. Paul, Blessed
Alberione and Mother Thecla described this holiness in the readings for this session. Discuss the
various themes, ideas and imagery that each used to describe this holiness.
Jesus
St. Paul
Blessed Alberione
Mother Thecla
2. As a Pauline Cooperator and Distance Learner describe ways in which you can obtain
holiness in prayer and action.
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3. In order to strengthen the bonds between you and the APC, you will be required to have some
form of communication with another cooperator. The name and address of another cooperator
should have been given to you. If not contact your APC Regional Director. Communication may
by letter, e-mail, telephone or visit.
Write a letter to another cooperator sharing your ideas on how you can grow closer in holiness through prayer and
action. The letter may discuss your personal feelings or ideas in supporting the Pauline Mission. You are also
invited to ask a cooperator to share in your prayers and/or report your ideas during the next cooperator meeting. You
should also receive a timely response from the designated cooperator. The designated cooperator will inform the
APC Regional Director of the receipt of the letter, but will not reveal its contents unless you specifically ask.
First Pauline Sisters. Mother Thecla Merlo is sitting in front on the left.
After the session is finished, complete the Session Assignment Sheet and submit it to the APC
Director or e-mail Cooperators@Paulinemedia.com unless otherwise arranged.
Period of Inquiry
23
Session 3:
Be Persevering in Your Prayers (Col. 4:2)

____________________________________________________________________
Group Study Program
The theme for this session: Prayer involves our whole person and renews our commitment to
tend toward holiness (Const. # 69).
Points to Cover:
-
Prayer as communion with Jesus It is no longer I who live but Christ who live in me.
Prayer fonts of the Word and the Eucharist
Pauline prayer
You will need

-
A Bible
Music
Video A Life Spent for the Gospel (Life of Mother Thecla Merlo) Online

Sing or play an opening song. Suggestion: Breath by Michael W. Smith

-
After the witness of example, the apostolic spirit expresses itself in prayer. Paul, a man of
prayer, saw in this contact with God the secret and soul of the apostolate. "The same Lord is the
Lord of all, and his generosity is offered to all who appeal to him (Romans 10:12). It was
natural for him to ask for collaboration from his fellow Christians. He recommended that they
be persevering in your prayers (Col. 4:2). The intentions that he presented were varied, but
their meeting point was one: the mission for the good of everyone. Paul requested prayers for
himself and for all of his collaborators in the apostolate. He encountered dangers and
persecution, and he hoped through prayer to be freed from them. While a prisoner in
Rome, he confided to Philemon: Will you get a place ready for me to stay? I am hoping
through your prayers to be restored to you (Philemon, 22).
In all your prayers, Paul said, pray in the Spirit. Never get tired of praying for all Gods holy
24
people, and pray for me that I may proclaim the mystery of the Gospel (Eph. 6:18-20). Paul
was a beggar of prayers. I urge then, He said, that petitions, prayers, intercession and
thanksgiving should be offered for everyone (1 Tm. 2:1-2). With his invitations to apostolic
prayer, St. Paul wanted to assure himself of a whole network of spiritual solidarity.
Let us reflect on these words of Jesus as each of us hears his invitation Come to me all of you
(Mt. 28:11).
-
A Reading from the Gospel of Mark Chapter 6: 30-32

A Reading from the Gospel of Luke Chapter 11: 1-13
A Reading from the Gospel of John chapter 17:17-23 Prayed together.

The prayer of Jesus to the Father:
Make them holy in the truth;
Your word is truth.
Just as you sent me into the world,
I, too, have sent them into the world.
And I consecrate myself for their sake
That they may be made holy in truth.
But Im praying not only for them
But also for those who believe in me through their word,
So that all may be one,
Just as you, Father, are in me and I in you,
So they, too, may be in us,
So the world may believe that you sent me.
And Ive given them the glory you gave me,
So they may be one as we are one,
I in them and you in me,
So they may be perfectly one,
So that the world may know that you sent me
And you loved them just as you loved me.
Father, I desire that they, too, may be with me
Where I am.
Leader: Father
Alberiones words on prayer

25
matched his vital personal practice in lifelong intensity and emphasis. One of the forms of
prayer he strongly recommended to the Pauline Family was a daily hour before the Lord in the
Eucharist. He saw this hour as being in the School of the Divine Master, a learning period with
Christ the Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life. It was especially in this encounter that Fr.
Alberione hoped for the realization in each member of the central idea of Pauline spirituality:
the full development of the human person in Christ in keeping with all his resources of mind,
will, heart and physical strength. And this until the basic experience of St. Paul would become a
fact: I live, not I, but Christ lives in me (Gal. 2:20).
-
Blessed Alberione writes (from Thoughts)
Our prayers place all of our being before God: mind, will, heart, and body. They come from the
fundamental dogmas of the Church and are meant to form the apostle. One who becomes
familiar with the Pauline prayers will gradually be illuminated, fortified and guided in the
spirituality of St. Paul. There is no greater contribution we can make to the Pauline Family than
prayer. Prayer, therefore, before all, above all, the life of all.
There is no true prayer without mission. Therefore, let there be prayer and missionaction
springing from prayer. The liturgy is like a river of grace, light and blessing which flows through
the year. It is for us to penetrate the liturgy and understand it well. To have the spirit of the
liturgy is a great grace; we are attuned to the Church and praying with the Church.
First and foremost, our prayer is Eucharistic. From this vital source, the Eucharistic Master,
everything is given life. This is how the Pauline Family was born, from the tabernacle. From
here it is sustained in life, mission and holiness. Our sanctity and apostolate spring from the
Mass, Communion and the daily Eucharistic hour.
The Eucharistic hour is not a complex of prayers. It is a visit, something you would make to a
dear person, your mother or best friend for example. There is an exchange of greetings, an
exchange of news, of gifts, and promises. This visit has the scope of establishing our lives in
Jesus Christ, that is, to live in, for, and with Jesus. During Eucharistic adoration, consider
yourselves as representatives of humanity before the tabernacle, gather all hearts in your own,
present all their needs to God, ask Him to give them strength in weakness, and light in obscurity.
Do this so that Jesus may conquer their hearts, and grant apostles holiness and zeal.
Not only do we make books and media available but also we accompany them with prayer so
that the persons receiving them may find light in Christ.
Mother Thecla writes in her conferences:
Prayer is the nourishment of the interior life. It is like lighting an oil lamp; what do we use to
keep it going? Oil. And to keep cars running we put in gasoline. Prayer is like this, it keeps our
interior life nourished. Pray from the heart. Say prayers well, participate at Mass well, and
receive Holy Communion well. In substance, what is prayer? It is to live our life in Jesus. To
reach the point where our thoughts are those of Jesus, where our affections are his own, where
our will is his. If things do not come from within from our interior life if we are not full of
Godwe cannot give to others what we do not have.
1. Evaluation of Life: In honor of Jesus Way, to obtain help in the practice of virtue.
26
Leader: Let us reflect on the words we have just heard, asking Jesus to touch our mind, will and
heart with his grace. As we reflect on the primary place of prayer in our lives, let us ask Jesus to
show us how we may improve our prayer in order to grow in union with him and become way,
truth and life for our brothers and sisters.
4. Group Prayer: In honor of Jesus Life, to obtain the graces necessary for our spiritual work
and for our brothers and sisters.
Blessed James Alberione, SSP
27
The Pauline Offertory

Father,
In union with all those who celebrate the Eucharist, I wish to offer myself with Jesus
-
In atonement for the confusion spread throughout the world through the misuse of the media
To appeal to your mercy for those persons, who through the influence of these instruments,
stray from your fatherly love;
For the conversion of those persons who in the use of these instruments reject the teaching of
Christ and his Church confusing the minds, the hearts and the undertakings of men and
women;
That we may follow Him alone whom you Father, in your boundless love, sent into the
world, saying: This is my beloved Son, hear Him.
To acknowledge and to make known that Jesus alone, the Word Incarnate, is the perfect
Teacher, the trustworthy Way who leads to knowledge of you, Father, and to a partaking of
your life;
That there be in the Church an increase in the number of priests, religious, and lay persons
who, consecrated as apostles of communication, will make the message of salvation resound
throughout the world;
May all those who work within media fields grow in holiness and wisdom and bear witness
to an authentic Christian life;
That the undertakings of Catholics within the sphere of the communications media may
continually increase so that by promoting more effectively genuine human and Christian
values, messages that are harmful and erroneous will be counteracted;
That well aware of our insufficiency and unworthiness we may realize the need to draw near
the font of life in all humility and trust and be nourished with your word, Father, and with the
body of Christ, invoking light, love and mercy for all men and women.
Observe a brief period of reflection and private prayer.
28
Closing Invocations
Have Mercy on us.
St. Paul the Apostle, Pray for us.
5. The group moves from the area of prayer to the meeting area.
6. Break (10 minutes)
Today we further developed the theme of our last session: Holiness and the Lay Faithful.
Todays theme could be summed up as Prayer, the Soul of the Apostolate. Mother Thecla
lived a life of prayer and dedication to the mission. Her actions sprung from her prayer
and union with Jesus Master. As we watch this video on her life take note of the
moments when Mother Thecla turned to prayer for the fledgling Pauline congregation of
the Daughters of Sr. Paul. After the film, we will have time to share her witness of faith,
hope and love. These three theological virtues are the manifestations of holiness. As you
enjoy the video, notice how Mother Thecla assisted Fr. Alberione in founding the
Daughters of St. Paul.
-
What moments did she dedicate to mission?
What moments did she dedicate to prayer?
Where did she gain the peace and joy that overflowed into the lives of those
around her?
You may take notes for a brief sharing on these questions after the video.
Show: The video Thecla: A Life Spent for the Gospel
Or view an online movie http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=awGKLnPDojA

Conclusion
The group reflects on the video together. You may use the questions cited above or the distance
learning questions (found on the distance learning sheet for this session).
29

Required Reading
a. Handbook for Pauline Cooperators, pgs. 42-43.
b.
Colossians 1: 1-29
Recommended Reading
a. A book on prayer from Pauline Books & Media
b. Catechism of the Catholic Church 1994;
Articles 1356-1419
Books written by Father James Alberione and Mother Thecla Merlo may be
available in the private libraries of the Daughters of St. Paul and may be
lent out upon request. You can also visit www.alberione.org
Alberione, James Pray Always Pauline Books & Media

Out of Print http://www.pddm.us/Founder.htm
Alberione, James
Thoughts
http://www.scribd.com/doc/21005890/Thoughts-From-FrAlberione-1
http://www.scribd.com/doc/21006066/Thoughts-From-Fr-Alberione-2
Merlo, Thecla Thoughts Pauline Books & Media (out of print from Pauline library)
Messenger of the Good News Biography (available for purchase)
30

DISTANCE FORMATION AND ASSOCIATION
Session 3
Be Persevering in Your Prayers (Col. 4:2).
Materials Needed:
Pencil or pen
Picture or statue of Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life for veneration.
Votive candle
Bible
Optional:
Tape recordings of prayerful music
1. Turn to the Outline for Session 3. Since you may not be in a Chapel with the Blessed
Sacrament, set up a miniature shrine on a table and place the statue or picture of Jesus,
Master, Way, Truth and Life in the center of the table. Enthrone your open Bible in front
of the image remembering that Jesus is present in the Word. Light your votive candle,
silently reflecting in prayer for a few minutes. Then begin the session following the time
allotted and prayerfully reflect upon the readings.
2. After the session is finished, complete the Session Assignment Sheet and submit it
to the APC Director or e-mail Cooperators@Paulinemedia.com unless otherwise
arranged.
3. The Session Assignment Sheet requires you to do some long distance sharing with a
Daughter of St. Paul. The names and addresses of the Sisters may be obtained from the
APC Regional Director.
31

SESSION 3
BE PERSEVERING IN YOUR PRAYERS
ASSIGNMENT SHEET
Name
Address
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
Phone
________________________________
E-mail Address________________________________
needed.
1. As Christians and followers of Christ we are called to prayer. Father Alberione stated,
There is no greater contribution we can make to the Pauline Family than Prayer.
Prayer is therefore, before all, above all, the life of all. Jesus, St. Paul, Father Alberione
and Mother Thecla share their thoughts on prayer in the readings for this session. Using
the readings, describe why Father Alberiones statement is true.
2. Describe the importance of prayer in your life. How does your relationship with God
affect your actions and thoughts about others?
32
3. In order to strengthen the bonds between you and the Pauline Religious Family, you
will be assigned a prayer partner for this exercise. The name and address of a Sister,
Brother or Priest should have been given to you. If one is needed, contact the NAPC
Director. Communication may be performed by letter, e-mail or any other agreed format.
Fill out the following letter and send it to your assigned Sister, Brother or Priest. Your particular prayer
intentions may be personal or universal. Each day of the week you will pray for those intentions. The letter
will also request that your Pauline prayer partner unite in prayer with you for a particular week. Each day
is dedicated to Jesus or a particular saint as prescribed by Father Alberione in the Pauline Prayer book. You
are also encouraged and invited to write to your assigned person sharing any ideas, prayers or spiritual
favors you may have received. Due to their intense work and prayer schedules, you may or may not get a
response, but be comforted to know that you and your intentions will be in her/his prayers.
33

SESSION 3: BE PERSEVERING IN YOUR PRAYERS
Dear
As part of the Distance Cooperator Program, the Pauline Cooperator Director has
assigned you as my Partner in Prayer for one week. I am requesting that you pray for the
following intentions with me during your daily Eucharistic hour of adoration.
Sunday Date:
Jesus, Divine Master and Shepherd, Way Truth and Life
Intention:
Monday
Date:
St. Paul the Apostle
Intention:
Tuesday
Date:
Those who have preceded us to eternity
Intention:
Wednesday
Date:
St. Joseph, patron of the Universal Church
Intention:
Thursday
Date:
Guardian Angels and Archangels Gabriel, Michael, and Raphael
Intention:
Friday
Date:
Sacred Heart of Jesus our Divine Master
Intention:
Saturday
Date:
Mary, Mother, Teacher and Queen of Apostles
Intention:
Thank you for praying for my intentions.
I promise that you and all members of the Pauline family will be in my prayers
34
Period of Inquiry
Session 4:
My God will fulfill all your needs (Phil. 4:19)

Group Study Program
The theme for this session: Collaboration with the Pauline Family
Points to Cover:
Trust in Divine Providence
Fr. Alberiones Secret of Success in the foundations of the Pauline Family
Means of Collaboration with the Pauline Family as a Pauline Cooperator
You will need

A Bible
Suggested music from Glory and Praise. Blest Be the Lord Saint Louis Jesuits.
Pens
Copies of the Seek first the kingdom of God sheet found at the end of this
session for each participant.
Opening Invocations
St. Paul, the Apostle, Pray for us.
Sing or play a song. Gave Him the Name by Bread Without Cost
The cooperators do not simply benefit from the apostolate carried out by the Pauline
Family, but they also carry on its mission. They enable the spread of this vast mission.
Like the seventy-two disciples spoken of in the Gospel, they are sent by Jesus to
35
evangelize. Together with the whole Pauline Family the cooperators collaborate in
strengthening the kingdom of God in the world through the media of communication.
-
A Reading from the Gospel of Luke 10: 1-23

A Reading from Pauls Letter to the Philippians 4: 4-20
Fr. Alberione writes in Abundates Divitiae Gratiae Suae (Abundance of His Divine Grace) (adapted
from the original)
The night that divided the 19th century from the 20th century was decisive for the
specific mission and particular spirit in which, the Pauline Family was to be born and
brought to life. Following midnight Mass at the turn of the century, perpetual adoration
before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament was made available in the Cathedral of Alba
(Northern Italy). As a seminarian, I was at liberty to remain as long as I wished. A few
days before this I had attended a congress. I understood the profound presentation given
by Professor Toniolo.1 He read the invitation of Leo XIII2 to pray for the century just
beginning. He spoke of the Churchs needs, of the new means of the press, of opposing
the press with the press, organization with organization, of allowing the Gospel to
penetrate the culture and influence society.
As I thought of this, a particular light came from the Eucharist, a greater understanding of
Jesus invitation: Come to me, all of you. I seemed to understand the great Popes
heart, the invitation of the Church, and the true mission of the priesthood. What Toniolo
had said about the duty of being apostles of today and using the means of today became
clear to me. I felt an obligation to prepare to do something for the Lord, and for the
people of the new century.
At the same time, I had a clear grasp of my own insignificance and I heard the words of
Jesus: I am with you, in the Eucharistuntil the end of the world. I was aware that
light, comfort and victory could be obtained before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament.
As I envisioned the future, I felt that other generous persons would share this urge to do
something in the new century. My prayer lasted four hours. I prayed that the new century
would be born in the Eucharistic Christ; that new apostles would restore true meaning to
law, school, literature, the press, morality; that the Church would have a new missionary
impulse.At first I thought of a Catholic organization of writers, technicians, librarians,
and bookcentersbut soon, in a time of greater enlightenment, in 1910, I took a definite
step: there would be writers, technicians, distributors, but they would be men and women
religious. An organization would be formed, where energies would be united, where
dedication would be total, where doctrine would be pure.
Providence operated according to its ordinary divine method, strong and gentle. Its
1
2
http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr-today/first-economist-saint-packs-contemporary-punch
The Encyclical Tametsi Futura, On Jesus Christ Our Redeemer (available online).
36
hour was awaited in peace. Providence always begins in a manger; it acts so naturally as
to make it hard to distinguish grace from nature. In a moment of difficulty, I re-examined
my motives to see if grace had been impeded. The Divine Master willed to reassure the
institute and me.
In a dream a response came. Jesus Master in fact said: Do not be afraid, I am with you.
From here I want to enlighten; live in continual conversion. The from here came from
the tabernacle with emphasis. It was understood that from Him, the Master, would
come all the light to be received.
Once the Society of St. Paul had been started, I felt that a type of Third Order was needed
individuals who would desire to better their Christian lives according to the Pauline
Spirit, and to carry out an apostolate of prayer and mission. In the prayers I presented
every morning at the offering of the chalice my first thought was about the cooperators.
Always in prayer, I placed this intention that all who help the Pauline Family by prayer,
collaboration, offerings, vocations, may possess Jesus Christ, love him and contemplate
him forever here and in eternity.
Blessed Timothy Giaccardo wrote in his diary:
Last night the dear Father invited us all to make a pact with the Lord. Confidence is what
is lackingbut we who trust in all and in everyone except in God are stupid and crazy.
What are the conditions of the pact? 1) Trust in God. 2) Occupy the time well, especially
that given for study. 3) Promise to make use of what is learned only for the good press
and the glory of God.
When our Father speaks of confidence in Divine Providence, he no longer finds the
conclusion of his sermon (he never stops!); he says this himself. The words come out of
him inflamed.
On the way to sanctity, he explained, one may make progress for one, for five, or even for
ten, just as on bicycles. With a turn of the leg one can go forward a meter or even as
much as ten meters. But how is this done? In what does this multiplication consist? A
good, energetic, resolute will to become holy is needed. Second, that we do not trust in
ourselves, in our strength, but that we place all our trust in God, and that we pray. God
has called us to a holy life but He wants to act Himself; He wants to work with our arms.
God is first and we are in collaboration with God.
2. Examination of Life: In honor of Jesus Way, to obtain help in the practice of
virtue. Time Allotted: 10 minutes
Leader: Let us reflect on the readings we have just heard. Bring before the Lord your
personal weaknesses and desires to have greater trust in his Divine Providence in your
life.
37
Play a reflective song or instrumental Open My Eyes Lord

3. Group Prayer: in honor of Jesus Life, to obtain the graces necessary for our
spiritual work and for our particular needs.
The Pact with God known today as the Secret of Success is a prayer of confidence written
by Fr. James Alberione for the fledgling Pauline Family.
Speaking of this prayer, Fr. Colacrai, SSP says, "Daily life is loaded with the weight and
the glory of miracles. Discouragement is no longer nourished with our insufficiencies or
very great difficulties, and the partners, God and us travel together. Father Alberiones
whole secret seems a breath of the spirit of St. Paul who said: When I am weak, it is
then that I am strong (2 Cor. 12:10). The Secret of Success is a prayer used by all in the
Pauline Family. Let us prayerfully recite it together and then take some time to reflect on
what we have prayed.
The First Pact
Seek first the kingdom of

God,
Fr. James Alberione
Fr. Timothy Giaccardo
And all else will be given you.
Jesus Christ
The Father
Blessed Timothy Giaccardo & Blessed James Alberione
Extra:
Video on Blessed Toniolo, Apostle of Rerum Novarum
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DpxqhVFON4w
The Secret of Success

38
Jesus Master,
Accept the pact that we present to you
Through the hands of Mary, Queen of the Apostles and of St. Paul the Apostle.
We must correspond to your divine will, arrive at the degree of holiness and
heavenly glory, which you have promised us and carry out this mission for your
glory and the peace of humanity.
Instead, we see ourselves very weak, insufficient, lacking in all: in spirit, in
knowledge, in the mission, in poverty.
You instead are the Way, the Truth, and the Life,
The resurrection, our one and supreme good.
We place our trust in you alone who said: Whatever you ask in my name
you will receive it.
On our part we promise and commit ourselves to seek in all things, in life and in
mission your glory and the peace of humanity.
We count on your part: to give us a good spirit, grace, knowledge and the
means for doing good.
In your mercy, multiply the fruits of our spiritual life, of our mission, of our
learning, and of our poverty.
We do not doubt you but we fear our lack of faith and our inconsistency.
Therefore, O good Master, through the intercession of Mary our Mother, show us
the mercy you granted to the apostle Paul, so that following his example we may
be his companions in the glory of heaven.
After a brief time of reflection and silent prayer, the leader invites the group to spontaneous petitions.
Connect Here: Pauline Prayers Online

Purchase: Live Christ; Give Christ: Prayers for the New Evangelization
Leader: Distribute copies of the Covenant or Pact with the Lord that follows
Let each of us now place our lives in the Fathers hands by entering into a covenant or pact with the Holy
Trinity. This is a copy of the first pact that Blessed James Alberione and Blessed Timothy Giaccardo made
with the Lord. After you have signed your name to the sheet, place it on the altar or near the enthroned Bible.
Then take time for silent prayer.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------39
40
Song (Option: Slideshare The Secret of Success online)

Closing Invocations
-

4. The group moves to the meeting area.

Distance learners may refer to the sheet following this session.
5.
Break (10 minutes)
6. Sharing ideas for collaboration

Suggestions are given in the appendix under the section entitled Mission.
Announce date and time of the next meeting.
41

Required Reading
a. Handbook for Pauline Cooperators, pgs. 12-16
b. The Gospel of Luke, Chapter 24
Recommended Reading
a.
Pope John Paul II Tertio Millennio Adveniente On Preparation for the

Jubilee of the Year 2000. Pauline Books & Media, Boston: 1994
# 56-59
b.
Catechism of the Catholic Church. ,

Articles 849-856; 898-901
c. Leo XIII Tametsi Futura On Jesus Christ Our Redeemer. Pauline Books & Media
Boston: 1980.
d. Blessed Toniolo, Economist http://ncronline.org/blogs/ncr-today/first-economistsaint-packs-contemporary-punch. On a Google search find articles about
Blessed Giuseppe Toniolo. Read his Beatification biography on Vatican.va.
e. More on Blessed Toniolo http://subcreators.com/blog/2011/01/18/blessed-giuseppetoniolo/
f.
Pope Paul VI Evangelii Nuntiandi On Evangelization in the Modern World.

Pauline Books & Media. Boston, 1975 # 59, 66, 70-76, 79-80
42

Session 4
Collaboration with the Pauline Family
Materials Needed:
Pencil or pen
A picture or statue of Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life for veneration and worship
A votive candle
Bible
Optional:
1. Turn to the Outline for Session 4. Since you may not be in a Chapel with the Blessed
Master, Way, Truth and Life in the center of the table. Enthrone your open Bible in front
of the of image remembering that Jesus is present in the Word. Light your votive candle,
2. After the session, complete the Session Assignment Sheet and submit it the APC
Director, 50 St. Pauls Ave., Boston, MA 02130 or e-mail, the Regional Director or e-mail
to: Cooperators@paulinemedia.com.
3. The Session Assignment Sheet requires you to do some distance sharing with another
Pauline Cooperator. The name and addresses of the cooperators may be obtained from
the APC Director.
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF PAULINE COOPERATORS

LONG DISTANCE FORMATION AND ASSOCIATION PROGRAM
43
SESSION 4
COLLABORATION WITH PAULINE FAMILY
ASSIGNMENT SHEET
Name
Address
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
Phone
________________________________
E-mail Address________________________________
needed.
1. As Christians and followers of Christ we are all called to spread the gospel. Jesus
inspired the seventy-two missionaries to do good works and have faith in His words.
Paul inspired the Philippians to rejoice and be generous. Read Luke 10:1-23 and Phil.
4:4-20 again and discuss what these messages mean for you and your life.
2. Blessed James Alberione and Blessed Timothy Giaccardo share their thoughts on
collaboration with God. Discuss what this collaboration means.
3. In order to strengthen the bonds between you and other Pauline Cooperators, you will
be required to contact another Cooperator. The name and address should have been given
44
to you. If one is needed, contact the APC Director. Communication may be performed
by letter, e-mail, fax, or telephone.
Communicate with your assigned cooperator through telephone, letter, fax or e-mail.
Converse with him or her about what their collaboration with the Pauline Family means
to them and describe their thoughts and major highlights of your communication.
Name of Cooperator you communicated with
____________________________________
Your thoughts:
After the session is finished, complete the Session Assignment Sheet and submit it to
the APC Director or e-mail Cooperators@Paulinemedia.com unless otherwise arranged.
Period of Inquiry
45
Session 5:
Faith Comes From Hearing (Romans 10:17)

Group Study Program
The theme for this session: Evangelization with the Media of Communications
Points to Cover:
-
The initial proclamation of the Gospel:

The Kerugma heralded message of Jesus Christ (Rm. 16).
The Great Commission, Evangelization, the essential mission of the Church
A people set apart to sing the praises of God (1 Peter 2:9).
You will need

-
A Bible
Music
An Introduction to the Pauline Cooperators Online Slideshare
Opening Invocations
Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life, Have Mercy on us.
Sing or play an opening song. More of You

46
A Reading from the Handbook for Pauline Cooperators
The Pauline Cooperators fulfill an apostolic vocation, which makes them particularly apt
to carry out the mission in all of its forms: proclamation of the faith (catechesis) in the
family, writing, diffusion of Catholic/Christian literature, use of the media to announce
the Gospel message. The cooperators are also called to establish libraries and media
centers in parishes, to organize centers of diffusion, if not permanent at least periodically
(at parishes on Sunday, at conventions), to arrange Bible days; circulate wholesome
videos, music and software, to educate others in media awareness. They also give
particular attention to those works and means that assist in the Christian formation of
receivers of the media at every age level. Among other things, they may work in the
production of Catholic radio and television programs, or cultural programs that are
Catholic in spirit. It is also desirable that there be qualified Pauline Cooperators present
in diocesan media centers.
Introduction to the Scripture Readings: adapted from Creed and Catechesis.
Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me; and those who welcome me welcome the one
who sent me (Mt. 10:40). The apostles are authorized heralds of Christ himself. You
will be my witnesses not only in Jerusalem but throughout Judea and Samaria, and indeed
to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). They announce the gospel of the divine plan. The first
coming of Jesus introduces a new age of universal history, the final age, for it will
culminate in his Second Coming (the Parousia), hence the urgency of the message to
each and all. The Kingdom of God is at hand! The Day of the Lord, foretold by the
prophets is approaching! Take up the Lords way of life, embrace the Christian way! This
is the Gospel which has been preached in the whole world (Col. 1:13). The Greek word
kerygma preached is found in the root word, keryx which means herald the
kerygma is the heralded message of Jesus Christ. Paul says in the letter to Timothy:
[Ego kryx, kai apstolos, kai didskolos] I have been named a herald and apostle and a
teacher of the faith (2 Tim.1:7).
Pope Paul VI in Evangelization of the Modern World says: The Church has a vivid
awareness of the fact that the Saviors words, I must proclaim the Good News of the
kingdom of God, apply in all truth to herself. She willingly adds with St. Paul: If I
preach the gospel, this is no reason for to me to boast, for an obligation has been imposed
on me, and woe to me if I do not preach it! (1 Cor. 9:16). We wish to confirm that the
task of evangelizing all people constitutes the essential mission of the Church (14).
Let us now listen to Paul as he speaks to us regarding his appointment as herald of Christ.
47
A Reading from Romans Chapter 10:13-14, Chapter 15: 14-21
A Reading from Ephesians Chapter 3:1-11
Play a Reflective Song
-
Suggestion: Give Me Your Eyes by Brandon Heath
Fr. Alberione writes in Thoughts
The apostle is one who carries God within and radiates God to others. The apostle is a
saint who accumulates treasure and communicates its surplus to humanity. The apostle
has a heart glowing with the love of God and the love of humanity, and can neither
restrain nor suffocate what he or she feels and thinks. The apostle is a vessel overflowing
for those who want to quench their thirst. To quote from one writer: the apostle exudes
God from all his poresin work, words, prayer, attitudes, from his entire being. Live by
God and give God!
Apostolate means bringing humanity salvation: Jesus Christ, Way, Truth and Life. The
Pauline Apostolate is universal in time and place. It is to preach the gospel with modern
means. The gospel and the letters of Paul are our guide. The world is evolving rapidly:
population centers, culture and commerce are undergoing change. Peaceful and swift
revolutions are taking place because of the press, radio, motion pictures, television, air
travel, political, social and industrial movements, atomic energy, (and we can add
information systems, digital communications or social media to this list). It is important
that religion be always present, that it uses every means to raise the level of life on earth
and glory in heaven.
48
Consider the words of Cardinal Della Costa3: Either we look at reality courageously,
seeing beyond the immediate little world that surrounds us, and then grasp the urgent
necessity of a radical change of mentality and method, or, in the span of a few years, we
shall have made a desert around the Master of life.
There are two dangerous deceptions: First to simply preach against the press, radio,
motion pictures and television because of the harmful content they often present. We
cannot pass ourselves off as reactionaries or supporters of ignorance. We will not be
heard. The Church fears only ignorance, falsehood and incomplete knowledge. Secondly,
holding back from entering the fields of the press, radio, motion pictures, and television
until they have already been organized. We need good newspapers, good films, good
broadcasts, and healthy television shows. These should take the lead. Truth first, rather
than the attempt to counter error.
The press, motion pictures, radio and television today constitute the most urgent, most
rapid and most efficacious means. When these means of progress serve evangelization, a
consecration takes place, and they are elevated. The writers office, the technicians
plant, and the media center become a church and pulpit. The microphone and the screen
are our pulpit. The printing plant and the production and broadcasting studios are like
our church. We adopt St. Pauls motto: I do everything for the gospel.
Mother Thecla writes:
Live the gospel. Its maxims, its teachings must be our guide and support. Let us model
ourselves on them always. Let our lives be a clear witness to the gospel. God is a very
good cameraman and will project the film of our lives. Let us be radiant stars!
Prayer: Based on the Second Letter to Timothy Chapter 1, verses 1-14
I offer thanksgiving and praise to you Father.
You have chosen me to be your apostle,
to tell others about the promise of life that is in Christ Jesus.
*Elia dalla Costa was born in Villaverla as the youngest of the five children. He was
baptized on June 23, 1872 and ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Antonio Feruglio
on July 25, 1895. On May 25, 1923, Costa was appointed Bishop of Padua by Pope
Pius XI. He received his episcopal consecration on the following August 12 from
Bishop Ferdinando Rodolfi in the Cathedral of Viacenza. Costa was named Archbishop
of Florence on December 19, 1931. From January to May 1932, he was Apostolic
Administrator of Padua. Pope Pius created Costa Cardinal Priest of S. Marco in the
consistory of March 13, 1933. During World War II, he became known as "the
Cardinal of Charity" for helping save thousands of Italians from execution under the
Fascist regime. Costa died in Florence, at age 89, and is buried in the Duomo di
Firenze. In 1981 his process for beatification was opened.
3
http://thefarsight2.blogspot.com/2008/11/elia-cardinal-dalla-costa-1872-1961.html
49
Let my faith grow as a small flame grows into a fire.

You did not give me a spirit of fear but a spirit of power and love and self-control.
Strengthen me so that I may witness to your gospel as your herald.
You call me to be holy, not because of anything I do but because of the grace given
To me through Christ Jesus, even before time began.
Jesus, you destroyed death and through the gospel show us the way to life.
This is your good news. I believe in you and I am sure that you will guard
The truth that has been entrusted to me by your Holy Spirit, who dwells within me.
1. Evaluation of Life: In honor of Jesus Way, to obtain help in the practice of virtue.
The Word of God transforms our lives. Let us take a moment to reflect on the Word we have
just heard. Let the Word penetrate your life.
-
Think of the ways Jesus calls you to witness to Him each day: at home, at work, in your
social life, to each member of your family.
Reflect on the times and places you hear the Gospel proclaimed.
How attentive are you to these moments?
What fears hold you back from witnessing to Jesus in all circumstances of your life?
Bring these fears before Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament asking him to replace them with the
surety of his love.
2. Group Prayer: In honor of Jesus Life, to obtain the graces necessary for our spiritual
work and for our brothers and sisters to whom we are sent as heralds.
Time allotted 10 minutes
Pray the following together or

Play the CD Abba Pater or link to YouTube, by John Paul II, track 2 Cristo e
Liberazione. Have copies of the words available for participants. Online
Guide:
We are sentinels for the people of the Third Millennium.
50
With the Church, an expert in incarnation

And with our Pauline Charism, we stand watch
So as to respond constructively
To those lost in darkness, who ask:
Sentinel, how much longer will the night last? (Isaiah 21:12)
The Church, sentinel of the truth about humanity,
And about the individual human person searching for the truth,
Must be ready to respond:
Morning is coming. If you ask come, be renewed in Christ.
All: How beautiful are the feet of the messengers,
those who bring glad tidings
The news of your coming, Lord,
And the announcement of your call to each of us;
To make all things new with you.
Lord, we place at your disposal our hands, our feet, everything we are and have,
To communicate you and the good news of your grace
For the joy of every person.
If we have been fearful, give us trust;
If we are young, stay close to us
If we are less young, sustain our fervor.
Prayer: Invocations to Jesus Master
These may be recited by dividing the invocations between two sides of the gathering.
Jesus Master, sanctify my mind and increase my faith.

Jesus, teaching in the Church, draw everyone to your school.
Jesus Master, deliver me from error, ignorance, vain thoughts and eternal darkness.
Jesus, Way between the Father and us, I offer you all and await all from you.
Jesus, Way of sanctity, make me your faithful imitator.
Jesus, Way, render me perfect as my Father who is in heaven.
Jesus, Life, live in me, so that I may live in you.
Jesus, Life, do not permit me to be separated from you.
51
Jesus, Life, grant that I may live eternally in your love.

Jesus, Truth, may I be light for the world.
Jesus, Truth, may I be example and witness to others.
Jesus, Life, may my presence bring grace and consolation everywhere.
Together: Mary, Gods chosen one, mother and guardian of apostles, pray with us, pray
for us and for all those called by God. Amen.
Leader: If there is time invite the group to spontaneous petitions.
Sing or Play Music Suggestion: Love Does Brandon Heath
Closing Invocations
From all sin, deliver us, Lord.
4. Break
5.
Video Showing: Being Pauline and Pauline Holiness

After the video reflect on and discuss the following:
Christ left the Church with three great tasks. One of these is To give the gospel.
-
What is the gospel?
How can we be heralds of the gospel today?
What does New Evangelization mean?
Leader: Ask everyone in the group to write down their reflections for a later sharing.
52
Guide:
1. The gospel is the good news of Jesus Christ, what he said, what he did, who he is and
his promise of eternal life for those who believe in him and follow him. Refer to the
first reading of the time of prayer for further discussion.
2. The second great task Christ left to the Church is To bring the sacred signs or
sacraments he instituted. The Pauline mission of evangelization is pastoral, meaning
we are called to bring people to the sacraments. This is one way to distinguish the
Pauline Charism.
After reading the following passage from the writings of Fr. Alberione
-
Reflect together on the way Pauline publishing, a Pauline media center, media
exhibit, Liturgical Center, movie production, Internet site, production, etc. differ from
secular counterparts.
What is Pauline Pastoral Evangelization? (Some hints on this blog)
How may we bring people to the sacraments?

http://www.americancatholic.org/features/special/default.aspx?id=29
Option:
Conduct an online search inserting these headings into the search query:
-
Alberione Pastoral
New Evangelization Vatican
Bring to the Sacraments
Share your findings.
53
Jesus Christ is the Way, Truth and Life.

Spiritual work involves:
Imitating the holiness of Jesus Christ who shows us the way by his
examples and teaching;
- A spirit of faith in Jesus Christ who is the Truth, thinking according to the
gospel, New Testament, and the Church which communicated them;
- Grace, which is a participation in the life of Jesus through the sacraments
and all the means of grace.
This is how Jesus Christ Way, Truth and Life is formed in us: be conformed to
him so Jesus will nourish the person in his/her faculties of will, intelligence
and sentiment.
-
Blessed James Alberione, S.S.P.

54
Required Reading
a. Handbook for Pauline Cooperators, pgs. 18-32.
b. Pope Paul VI. On Evangelization in the Modern World.
Pauline Books & Media. Boston. 1975. Reference numbers 6-24.
c. Catechism of the Catholic Church; Articles 425-429,
Recommended Reading (Suggested reading may be updated)
a. Boyack, Kenneth, Ed. The New Catholic Evangelization.
Paulist Press. Mahwah: NJ. 1992.
b. Boyack, Kenneth, Ed. Catholic Evangelization Today: A New Pentecost for
the United States. Paulist Press. Mahwah: NJ. 1987.
c. Martin, Ralph and Peter Williamson. Pope John Paul and the New
Evangelization: How You Can Bring the Good News to Others.
Ignatius Press: San Francisco. 1995.
d. Martini, Carlo M. Ministers of the Gospel. Crossroads: New York, 1989.
Check for new editions on the theme of Catholic Evangelization

or ask for suggestions from the National Office of Pauline Cooperators

55
DISTANCE FORMATION AND ASSOCIATION

Session 5
Faith Comes From Hearing
Materials Needed:
Pencil or pen
Picture or icon of, Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life
A votive candle
Bible
Optional:
1. Follow the Outline for Session 5. Since you may not be in a chapel with the Blessed
Master, Way, Truth and Life in the center of the table. Enthrone your Bible in front of
the image remembering that Jesus is present in the Word. Light your votive candle,
arranged.
56

SESSION 5
FAITH COMES FROM HEARING
ASSIGNMENT SHEET
Name
Address
________________________________
________________________________
________________________________
Phone
________________________________
E-mail Address________________________________
1. Apostolic Vocation is an important aspect of the Pauline Cooperator. Using the

readings, discuss how St. Paul, Fr. Alberione and Mother Thecla would have responded
to the following statements.
A. The preaching of the gospel isnt my job. Its the job of the clergy and
religious orders of brothers and sisters. My job is to go to church and listen.
St. Paul
Fr. Alberione
Mother Thecla
B. The media can be evil especially if its content can be harmful. We must only
let a few responsible people write books, make movies or speak to control what our ears
hear and what we do.
St. Paul
Fr. Alberione
57
Mother Thecla
C. Let someone else do the preaching and work of God. I dont have the talent,
knowledge or time to do any of this. Besides Im an unworthy sinner.
St. Paul
Fr. Alberione
Mother Thecla
2. Ask yourself, a layperson and a priest or sister of your choice the following questions
and compare your answers.
Lay persons name
____________________________________
Priest or Sisters name
___________________________________
What is the role of the laity in the church?

Yourself
Layperson
Priest or Sister
58
59
Jesus said that He is the Way, the Truth and the Life. What does this mean?
Yourself
Layperson
Priest or Sister
How does a layperson preach the gospel?

Yourself
Layperson
Priest or Sister
3. From the information you gathered from exercises 1 and 2, list your responsibilities as
a Christian and the different ways you could preach the gospel.
60
Period of Inquiry
Session 6
Imitate Me As I Imitate Christ (1 Corinthians 4:16)

Group Study Program
The theme for this session is: The Pauline Charism
Points to Cover:
-
Translating the treasures of our spirituality (charism) for the enrichment of the entire
Church
Gods gifts (charism) to the Pauline Family
Paulines In the Footsteps of those guided by the Spirit
You will need

-
A Bible
Music

Time allotted 10 minutes
Opening Invocations
Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life; Have Mercy on us.
Mary, Queen of the Apostles; Pray for us.
St. Paul the Apostle; Pray for us.
Song suggestion: You Put the Light in Me by Brandon Heath
61
- A Reading from the Handbook for Pauline Cooperators

The laity who have followed their vocation and have become members of one of the
associations or institutes approved by the Church try faithfully to adopt the special
characteristics of the spiritual life as well (Decree on the Apostolate of the Laity, 4).
The Pauline Cooperator desires to deepen the Pauline Charism as a renewed commitment
to Christian life. By living the Pauline spirituality, the Pauline Cooperator will open his
or her heart to the needs of people today as an apostle living the life of Christ in imitation
of St. Paul. Fr. Alberione defined the Pauline Charism in this way: The Institute wants to
live Jesus Christ; our main rule is: Christ lives in me. The Pauline Family has one
spirituality: to live the Gospel totally; to live of the Divine Master. We are to live him, as
his disciple St. Paul understood him. Devotion to Mary, which is a part of the Pauline
Spirit, has two goals for us: our holiness and bringing Jesus to others. The Pauline
Family aspires to live the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Way, Truth, and Life, totally in the spirit
of St. Paul, under the gaze of Mary, Queen of the Apostles.
-
A Reading from the Gospel of John Chapter 2 versus 1-11

A Reading from the Acts of the Apostles Chapter 1 verses 12-14; Chapter 2
verses 1-4
A Reading from Pauls first letter to the Corinthians Chapter 4 verses 15 16
Read by the prayer leader: Sr. Giovanna Maria Carrara, FSP, In Comunione, 1998
Since the Spirit, being invisible, can be recognized only through his activity, it is
important to contemplate his actions in the persons who, after Jesus, experienced his
presence in a vital way: I invite you to contemplate the people who were particularly
close to him and who allowed themselves to be guided by him in everything: Mary, St.
Paul, Fr. Alberione, and Mother Thecla.
Fr. Alberione writes: (Following of Christ the Master)
Mary was a disciple first, then a teacher. She was the first pupil of the Incarnation, then
during the private life of Jesus, and afterwards during his public life. By intimately living
with Jesus for thirty years, Mary learned all the spirit of the New Testament, which Jesus
first lived.
The Annunciation was a profound revelation. A world of things is to be learned from this
event. The same is true of the visit to St. Elizabeth, the nativity, the presentation in the
temple and the hidden life in Nazareth. In his own person Jesus was living the future
Church, the highest perfection, the most profound divine communication. Mary saw,
remembered, meditated (Luke 2:19, 51). Mary was the Mother of the Apostle of the
Father, the Divine Word; she became Mother, Teacher and Queen of every apostle at the
birth of Jesus; she was proclaimed such by Jesus on the cross; she showed herself to be
mother, teacher and queen especially at Pentecost. Mary helps form apostles of every
time and place.
62
We may consider Paul under three aspects as well: as teacher, model and provider. He is
called teacher of the Gentiles. Paul most faithfully interpreted the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
Jesus said of him: This man is my chosen instrument to bring my name before pagans,
kings and the people of Israel (Acts 9:15).
Paul is our model. He tells us Take me for your model, as I take Christ (1Cor. 11:1).
He proposes himself as an example, but not as an absolute example, rather as the form, in
the manner of imitating Christ, who alone is the absolute example.
In the third place, Paul is the provider. He held all peoples in his heart. He affirmed that
his heart had opened wide to embrace all nations. Paul prepared himself in prayer for his
mission. He intercedes for us now as a man of prayer.
Sr. Giovanna Maria Carrara, FSP writes: (In Comunione, 1998)
The presence of the Holy Spirit also runs like a golden thread through the experiences of
our Founder [Fr. James Alberione]. We can discern this divine presence in a number of
symbolic expressions that Fr. Alberione frequently uses in his autobiographical writings:
-
A light at times brilliant, banishing the shadows that partially obscure his
vocation/mission; at times tenuous guiding a half blind man who is led and, as he
goes along, is enlightened from time to time so that he can always continue to move
ahead.
A feeling that enables him to perceive ever more keenly the mandate of Jesus go,
preach.
A river which becomes larger as it flows on.
The overflowing riches of grace poured out on the Pauline Family.
The hand of God, which must never be forced because at the right time it will lead
us along the path willed by the Spirit.
Mother Thecla: Life in the Spirit:

When the founder attempted to summarize the life of Mother Thecla, he portrayed her as
a woman who offered no resistance to the Spirit: As far as I could see, she never
opposed the will of God. Mother Theclas entire life focused on reaching the point of
total self-surrender, of childlike dependence on the Father in the Holy Spirit. For
Mother Thecla, holiness meant, to live the life of the Trinity as Mary did. The heavenly
Father is always close to me, within me, thinking of me and providing for everything.
Jesus is with me; the Holy Spirit sanctifies me.
Let us pause for a moment to contemplate our own experiences. Let us become aware of
the activity of the Spirit in our lives as we review our personal journey. Let us celebrate
the memory of our baptism, confirmation, reception of the Eucharist and the sacrament of
reconciliation. Let us become more sensitive to the Spirits groaning in the depths of
our hearta groaning that is meant to move us toward Christ is a more decisive way.
63
2. Examination of Life (In honor of Jesus Way)

Period of silent meditation. You may play quiet background music if you wish.
3. Group Prayer: (In honor of Jesus Life)
Prayer: Entrusting of Oneself to Mary
Receive me, Mary, Mother, Teacher and Queen,
Among those who you love, nourish, sanctify and guide,
In the school of Jesus Christ, the Divine Master.
You identify in Gods mind those whom he calls,
And for them you have special prayers, grace, light and consolations.
My Master Jesus Christ entrusted himself wholly to you,
From the Incarnation to the Ascension.
For me this is doctrine, example and an ineffable gift.
I too place myself entirely into your hands.
Obtain for me the grace to know, imitate and love ever more
The Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life.
Present me to Jesus to be admitted to his school.
Enlighten my mind, fortify my will, sanctify my heart,
During this year of my spiritual work,
So that I may profit from this great mercy and say at the end:
I live now not I, but Christ lives in me (Gal. 2:20).
Song suggestion: Ave Maria music video
Leader: Invite the group to spontaneous petitions. Recite the Our Father together.
Closing Invocations
64
5. Pauline Charism and Holiness

We are truly surrounded by a cloud of witnesses in the Pauline Family. These
witnesses to Christ inspire us and intercede for us as we seek to attain holiness through
the work of evangelization and blaze new trails for the Gospel. We reflected on the
witness of Mary, Queen of the Apostles and St. Paul the Apostle. Let us reflect some
more on those members of the Pauline Family who have gone before us. They point out
the way we must follow if our gaze is to remain fixed on Jesus and our mission.
For this exercise, the leader will refer to the
appendix for information on the Pauline
Witnesses. Each participant will be, given
the short life of a Pauline Witness to read.
If there are not enough, two participants may
share information on Mother Thecla or Fr.
Alberione. After each person has finished
reading the biographical sketch, the leader
will continue with the following exercise:
-
Have each person pin on the picture of the Pauline witness or hold it so that they
now represent that person (in order to do this you will need to make a copy of photos
found in the index).
Invite another witness to interview a witness in front of all the participants
(interview questions are found in the index)
If there are two people representing one Pauline witness they may be interviewed
together.
You may want to employ a microphone or other props to keep this interesting to all in
attendancebe creative!
If you have cards of the Pauline witness they may hand them out to each participant
encouraging them to contact him or her as an intercessor. Heres my card, call on
me sometime. I will pray for you and with you.
The sisters in attendance may want to share the experience of their special devotion to
one or more of the Pauline witnesses, to Mary, Queen of Apostles, or to St. Paul.
Everyone is invited to share his or her insights at this time.
65

Required Reading
a. My Co-Workers in the Gospel: Handbook for Pauline Cooperators. Pgs. 6469.
b. John Paul II. Mission of the Redeemer. Pauline Books & Media. Boston:
1990 Chapters 7-8.
c. Catechism of the Catholic Church.
#2673-2690.
Recommended Reading
a. Benedict XVI Apostolic Exhortation Verbum Domini (Word of God)
b. Francis, Apostolic Letter Evangelii Guadium (Gospel of Joy)
Mother Thecla Merlo, FSP

66
NOTE TO THE LEADER:
The group leader may want to schedule a simple celebration upon completion of the Period
of Inquiry.
At this time the leader will also invite all who want to participate in the Time of Preparation
to join him/her in a separate meeting area. See notes on introducing the Time of Preparation
in the index.
An interview with the potential Pauline Cooperator is in order as well as certain guidelines
you may share with them at this time.
There will be a deepening of Pauline Devotions and Charism during the Time of Preparation
DISTANCE LEARNERS:
At this point you will receive a call from the local or regional office of Pauline Cooperators. If
you are a group leader and the group is within distance of a Pauline Center you may request a
visit from the local or regional director. The regional or national director will inquire about the
participants desire to continue in the Cooperator formation program and will be available to
answer questions that may have arisen during the Period of Inquiry.
1. What have you learned about prayer that you will apply to everyday life?
2. Can you describe the Pauline Charism in a few words?
3. How would you describe your ability to work with others?
4. How would you describe your learning style?
5. Are there any Pauline Witnesses you find attracted to? What has attracted you?
6. Are there any reservations you have about preparing for the Promise of the
Pauline Cooperator?
67

SESSION 6
IMITATE ME AS I IMITATE CHRIST
Materials Needed:
Pencil or pen
A picture or statue of Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life for veneration.
A votive candle
Bible
Optional:
1. Follow the Outline for Session 6. Since you may not be in a chapel with the Blessed
Sacrament, set up a miniature shrine on a table and place the statue or picture of
Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life in the center of the table. Lay your Bible open
in front of the of image remembering that Jesus is present in the Word. If you have
statues of St. Paul or Mary, Queen of Apostles, place them on each side of your image
of Jesus. Light your votive candle, silently reflecting in prayer for a few minutes.
Then begin the session following the time allotted and prayerfully reflect upon the
readings.
arranged.
68
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF PAULINE COOPERATORS

LONG DISTANCE FORMATION AND ASSOCIATION PROGRAM
SESSION 6
IMITATE ME AS I IMITATE CHRIST
ASSIGNMENT SHEET
Name
________________________________
Address
________________________________
Phone
________________________________
E-mail Address________________________________
1. Fr. Alberione refers to Mary, the Mother of Jesus, as Teacher and Queen of all
Apostles in Christ. Mary teaches the love of Christ through her faith and actions.
Choose three of the following readings and describe how she imitated Christ and
followed him. Discuss Marys feelings, the problems she faced and how she
responded to Gods challenge.
Luke 1:28-36
Luke 1:39-47
Luke 2: 1-9
Luke 2:27-37
Luke 2:41-52
John 2: 1-11
John 19: 25-27
2. Open your Bible to any of the following letters of Paul: Romans, Corinthians I or II,
Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, or Thessalonians. Read and discuss
Pauls words and feelings toward Jesus Christ. Cite lines that show how we should
imitate Christ who is the absolute example.
69
3. Read the short exhortation about Mother Thecla in the main session by Sr. Giovanna
Maria Carrara. Describe an experience in your life in which you had to have faith to
imitate Christ. Describe the problems you encountered and how you overcame them.
4. Congratulations! You have completed the Period of Inquiry. Take a few moments to
meditate and review your experiences in this spiritual journey with the Pauline
Family. Discuss what you have learned and how the sessions do or do not relate to
you and your life.
5. If you have any questions you would like to ask any member of the Pauline Family,
write them down here. Questions may be addressed to a Daughter of St. Paul, a Priest
or Brother of the Society of St. Paul, a Pious Disciple of the Divine Master, or a
Pauline Cooperator.
6. If you are following this as a Distance Program contact the National or Regional
Office of the Association of Pauline Cooperators to place a request to begin the
formal formation program.
70
NOTE TO THE LEADER:

-
The group leader may want to schedule a simple celebration upon completion of the
Period of Inquiry.
At this time the leader will also invite all who want to participate in the Time of
Preparation to join him/her in a separate meeting area, unless everyone wants to
participate. See notes on introducing the Time of Preparation in the index. An
interview with the potential Pauline Cooperator is in order as well as certain
guidelines you may share with them at this time.
There will be a deeper understanding of Pauline Devotions and Charism during the
Time of Preparation
DISTANCE LEARNERS:
At this point, you may receive a call from the regional or national office of Pauline
Cooperators. If you are a group leader and the group is within distance of a Pauline
Center you may request a visit from the regional director. The regional or national
director will inquire about the participants desire to continue in the Cooperator formation
program and will be available to answer questions that may have arisen during the Period
of Inquiry.
71
Note to the leader as you begin the Time of Preparation

Please send in the names and e-mail address of all who are beginning the Time of
Preparation to the Regional coordinator. See appendix for forms.
You will also keep a mailing list with name, address and phone at your location. There
will be a National e-mail list maintained to facilitate sending out information, feast day
novenas, etc. to those who are officially beginning to prepare for the Promise. When a
general mailing goes out you will be asked to provide the information needed to the
National Office. An example: a general mailing of an invitation for a Pilgrimage to Italy.
Check the manual introduction and the appendix for more information about this Time of
Preparation.
Thank you for your guidance and support of potential members of the Association of
Pauline Cooperators.
Address any questions to your regional representative or cooperators@paulinemedia.com
Time of Preparation
72
Table of Contents
Session 1: Gift of the Pauline Life and Mission
Session 2: Living Pauline Prayer
Session 3: Pauline Evangelization
Session 4: The Pauline Charism
Session 5: That the Manifold Wisdom of God be Made Known
Session 6: The Life and Mission of the Laity
Session 7: That Christ May Live in Me.
Session 8: Mary, Queen of the Apostles
Session 9: St. Paul the Apostle
Session 10: The Word of God and the Eucharist
Session 11: Ecumenism and Inter-religious Dialogue
Session 12: Organization of the Pauline Cooperators
73
Time of Preparation
Session 1:
Fully Mature With the Fullness of Christ. (Eph. 4:13)

Phase II: Group Study Program
The theme for this session: The Purpose of the Pauline Family
Points to Cover:
-
The Interior Life and Evangelical Spirit
Identity at the Level of Being
Pauline Spirituality
You will need:

-
A Bible
A large candle and small candles for participants to light
Music
Each session of the Time of Preparation will begin with an Hour of Prayer. If
possible, conduct the time of prayer in the presence of the Blessed Sacrament in a
Eucharistic chapel or church. If this is not possible, designate a place of prayer. Set
up Icons of Jesus Master; Mary Queen of Apostles and St. Paul, (these are available
from the National Office) and position the Bible in a place of honor. You may light a
candle and use incense as symbols of prayer and worship.
The Opening Invocation:
74
Leader:
Jesus Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life,
Response: Have mercy on us.

Leader:
Response: Pray for us.

Leader:

Sing or play an appropriate hymn. Be Thou My Vision
A Reading from the Statutes4 of the Pauline Cooperators
The Pauline life has as its purpose the perfection of love in all of the members. With a
deepening of the evangelical spirit, living the Gospel, the Pauline responds to the will of
God who desires all to be saved and come to the knowledge of truth (1 Tim. 2:4). Within
the structure of the Pauline Family, each member of the Association of Pauline
Cooperators strives toward holiness of life while associating with the mission of
evangelization with the media. The Pauline Cooperator is a person who, attracted by the
Pauline ideal, follows a particular call to live 1. the spirit of the beatitudes 2. in imitation
of Jesus Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life; Mary, Queen of the Apostles and St.
Paul the Apostle 3. as an apostle communicating the Gospel.
Choose different readers for these passages from the Bible:
A Reading from Pauls Second Letter to the Corinthians, Chapter 6:16-18; 7:1
Response to the Reading:
4
The Statutes of 1985 are an updated version of Blessed Alberiones original Statutes of the Pauline
Cooperator. They were updated in 1992 http://www.paulus.net/doc/statuto/cp/StatutoCP_eng.pdf
In 2012 another provisional version was published. These are found at http://paulinelaity.blogspot.com
75
Suggested song: Joy in the Journey by Michael Card The Final Word
Together: The Spirit prays for us and with us.
To the Most Holy Trinity
Divine Trinity, Father, Son and Holy Spirit,
present and active in the Church
and in the depths of my soul, I adore you, I thank you, I love you!
And through the hands of Mary most holy, my Mother,
I offer, give and consecrate myself entirely to you
for life and for eternity.
To you, Heavenly Father, I offer,
give and consecrate myself as your son/daughter.
To you, Jesus Master, I offer,
give and consecrate myself as your brother/sister and disciple.
To you, Holy Spirit,
I offer, give and consecrate myself as "a living temple"
to be consecrated and sanctified.
A Reading from the First Letter of John Chapter 1:1-4 ; 3:19-24 ; 4:7-12
Period of Silent Reflection (about 5 minutes).
Pray Together:
May Mary, Mother of the Church and my Mother,
Who dwells in the presence of the Holy Trinity,
Teach me to live, through the liturgy and the sacraments,
In an ever more intimate union with the three divine Persons,
So that my whole life may be a glory be to the Father, to the Son
and to the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Pause for Reflection
From the Writings of Blessed James Alberione, Founder 5
5
The Following of Christ the Master, pg.14-15
76
The Pauline [spiritual] life consists in this: living in the Church and in Christ, after the
example of St. Paul, under the protection of St. Paul and according to the teaching of
St. Paul. He made himself the model for his disciples (2 Thes. 3-9). And his mold is
in conformity with the original model, which is Christ himself (1 Cor. 11:1).
To reproduce the whole Christ in us it is necessary to believe in his word, follow his
examples and live his life. Christ is not just the right way, he is the only way to go to
God. Today he continues his office of teacher in the Church, his mystical body: As
the Father sent me, so I am sending you (John. 20:21).
The Institute wants to live Jesus Christ; our main rule is: Christ lives in me. This is for
every person in the Institute and for the entire community as a whole. The Pauline
Family has one spirituality: to live the Gospel totally; to live of the Divine Master. We
are to live him, as his disciple St. Paul understood him I live now not with my own
life but with the life of Christ who lives in me (Gal. 2:20). The mind of Jesus, the
heart of Jesus, the will of Jesus. We are to be living active members in the mystical
body of Jesus Christ.
To be a true Christian means to be another Christ. My little children, writes St. Paul,
I am in the pains of birth again, until Christ be formed in you (Gal. 4:19). It is
precisely for this reason that Christian education takes in the whole of human life,
physical and spiritual, intellectual and moral, domestic and social, not with a view of
minimizing it in any way, but in order to elevate, regulate and perfect it, in accordance
with the example and teaching of Christ as found in the Gospel, the power of God for
salvation to everyone who has faith (Rom. 1:16). 6
Hand out candles for everyone to light for the renewal of the baptismal promises. Light
them when indicated.
Leader: On the day of baptism we were incorporated into the crucified and glorified
Christ, and reborn to a sharing of the divine life: We were buried with him by mean of
baptism into his death, in order that, just as Christ has arisen from the dead through the
glory of the Father, so we also may walk in newness of life (Rom. 6:4). We have new
life through baptism. The Constitution on the Church (Vatican II Document Lumen
Gentium) tells us that our vocation stems from our baptism. St. Paul tells us that each one
6
Personality and Configuration with Christ, pg. 143 ff.
77
of us is called to be holy (1 Cor. 1:9). In the Catechism of the Catholic Church we read:
Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit
(vitae spiritualis ianua),4 and the door which gives access to the other sacraments.
Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons of God; we become members
of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: "Baptism is
the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word."5Since the entire People of
God is a people which has been sent the mission of proclaiming the word of God is
the task of all of the disciples of Jesus Christ based on their Baptism Verbum Domini,
94.
From a larger candle, have each participant light their candle. When everyone has
returned to his or her place the leader continues:
Leader: Please answer I do to the following renewal questions: 7
Dear brothers and sisters, through the paschal mystery we have been buried with Christ in
baptism, so that we may walk with him in newness of life. Let us renew the promises of
Holy Baptism, by which we once renounced Satan and his works and promised to serve
God in the holy Catholic Church.
Do you renounce sin,
so as to live in the freedom of the children of God?
Do you reject the lure of evil,
so that sin my have no mastery over you?
Do you reject Satan,
the author and prince of sin?
Do you believe in God, the Father almighty,
creator of heaven and earth?
Do you believe in Jesus Christ,
his only Son, our Lord, who was born of the Virgin Mary,
suffered death and was buried, rose again from the dead,
and is seated at the right hand of the Father?
Do you believe in the Holy Spirit,
the Holy Catholic Church, the communion of saints,
the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting?
Conclude Together:
Text of the Renewal of Baptismal Promises from the New Roman Missal, 3rd Edition
78
And may almighty God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ
who has given us new birth
by water and the Holy Spirit,
and bestowed on us forgiveness of our sins,
keep us by his grace,
in Christ Jesus our Lord,
for eternal life.
2. Examination of Life: In honor of Jesus Way, to obtain help in the practice of
virtue.
Let us reflect on these words of Venerable Mother Thecla Merlo8 : I have desired to
see you all here together to thank you for everything, but especially to recommend one
thing to you: Let us become saints! Let us set ourselves in earnest to progress in
holiness. The will of God is that we become saints. Saints with the everyday little
things, saints with the practice of the little virtues, especially with the virtue of mutual
charity. Love one another. Know how to excuse one another. Let us know how to put
up with a little more. The Lord bears with us. When we recite the Our Father:
Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us, if we are not
generous in forgiving the wrongs received, we are practically telling our Lord not to
forgive us. I carry you all in my heart and I will always be united to you in spirit. The
prayers we say for one another will strengthen our union as they rise from all parts of
the earth. I pray much for you, for everyone, that we all may attain the holiness to
which we are called. I write these things to you not only with the pen, but also with
the heart. I wish you all to be saints: for this I have offered my lifefor everyone, that
we may achieve the holiness God wants of us. 9
Time for reflection and silent prayer. (10 minutes)
Song St. Theresas Prayer by John Michael Talbot
3. Group Prayer: In honor of Jesus Life, to obtain the graces necessary for our
spiritual and material needs.
8
9
Conferences of Mother Thecla, Vol. 3, pg. 274

Mother Theclas Spiritual Testament
79
From the writings of Blessed Timothy Giaccardo

The diary of Blessed Timothy testifies how much he grew in intimacy with Mary most
holy. Little by little as the years passed, his devotion to Mary increased to the point of
permeating his entire life. My devotion to Mary became characterized by greater fervor,
always more with Mary, in Mary, for Mary.
Together: The Prayer for Entrusting Oneself to Mary by Blessed Timothy Giaccardo
O Mary, you know that Jesus is my ideal, when will he take possession of me?
When will I reach the measure of his fullness?
When will I be able to say with St. Paul, Christ lives in me?
See I offer myself to you.
O Mary, my mother, who will give me to Jesus?
Who will make me know, imitate and love him?
You, who have given him to the shepherds, to the magi, to all of humanity.
Together: Prayer for Entrusting Oneself to Mary by Blessed James Alberione

Receive me, Mary, Mother, Teacher and Queen, among those you love,
nourish, sanctify and guide, in the school of Jesus Christ, the Divine Master.
You identify in Gods mind those whom he calls,
and for them you have special prayers, grace, light and consolations.
My Master Jesus Christ entrusted himself wholly to you,
from the Incarnation to the Ascension.
For me this is doctrine, example and ineffable gift.
Obtain for me the grace to know, imitate and love ever more the Divine Master,
Way and Truth and Life.
Present me to Jesus, for I am an unworthy sinner,
and I have no other recommendations to be admitted to his school than your
recommendation. Enlighten my mind, fortify my will, sanctify my heart,
80
during this year of my spiritual work,

so that I may profit from this great mercy and may say at the end:
I live now not I, but Christ lives in me.
Reflection and an invitation to spontaneous prayer.
Leader: Invite anyone who has special prayer intentions to share them aloud.
After each intention we will pray the Hail Mary together.
Suggestion: initiate an intention book for the group.
Conclude the time of prayer with a hymn or music of your choice.

Close with the opening invocations: Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life. etc.
4. Group moves from the place of prayer to the meeting area.
5. Break Time allotted: 10 minutes
6. Group Discussion:
Time allotted: 20 minutes.
To the Leader: The Statutes outline the spiritual commitments of the Pauline
Cooperators. Hold a discussion/brainstorming on how these can be practically carried
81
out everyday and why they are important. Take one point at a time. If at the end of the
group discussion there are questions regarding these commitments, write them down
and send them to the National Cooperator Office. [If you have not done so, present
each participant with a personal copy of the Statutes.]
Hand out the following reflection on Commitment and give everyone time to read and
reflect on it: 10 minutes. They may want to mark the sections that impress them.
Then hand out the Spiritual Commitments of the Pauline Cooperator sheet that
follows and continue with the discussion.
82
Pauline Cooperator Spiritual Commitments

Statutes Association of Pauline Cooperators (Chapter 2, n. 3). 10
The Pauline Cooperator, in order to attain the ideal of personal holiness, pledges to:
-
Foster formation in the Catholic faith and translate that faith into everyday life
(Sacramental life: Sunday Eucharistic Liturgy, reception of the sacrament of
penance, daily prayer, parish activities, family activities, etc.)
Meditate frequently on sacred Scripture, especially the New Testament: The

Gospel, the Acts of the Apostles, the Letters of St. Paul (Suggestion: create a
sacred space in the home where you may meditate on sacred Scripture daily.)
Cultivate his or her Pauline vocation by reading the writings of Blessed James
Alberione (found in local Pauline libraries or through Internet sources), participate
in meetings and retreats, and attend conventions and other events fostered for this
purpose.
Read and deepen understanding of the most important Church documents (these
are usually included in the References for Further Study section at the end of each
session. A listing may also be found in the appendix).
Know the principle documents and activities of the Pauline Family. Documents
and Pauline news are found on Internet sites such as http:www.pauline.org, on
weblogs such as paulinelaity.blogspot.com, and on Social Media Sites. Documents
and books on Pauline history may be found in local Pauline libraries. See appendix
for more source material.
The Cooperators are persons who understand the Pauline Family and have with her
union of spirit and purposes.... They follow these two goals: sanctification and
apostolate.
10
1992 Statutes http://www.paulus.net/doc/statuto/cp/StatutoCP_eng.pdf
83
The Pauline Cooperator by Carla Romano, Pauline Cooperator 11

THE PAULINE COOPERATOR in the thought of Blessed James Alberione is a
person called by God to accomplish a particular apostolic mission. The vocation of the
Cooperator was the first Pauline vocation described by the Founder of the Pauline
Family: the lay person actively committed in an apostolic work that fully corresponds to
the times.
The sign of membership for Cooperators is living the Pauline charism along with
the consecrated Pauline brothers and sisters and other Pauline institute members.
The apostolic vocation of the Pauline Cooperator, due to the profundity and
specificity of his calling, makes him particularly inclined to develop the apostolate in all
its expression: catechesis of the family, editorial work, spread of the Catholic media and
any other language12 capable of communicating the Gospel message.
In order to work in an apostolic way it is necessary to think in an apostolic way,
with Saint Paul as model. It is Paul the Apostle who forms his very own disciples like a
true master, preceding them with his example even before his teaching, so he can say to
them: Be imitators of me! Pauline Cooperators are in the Pauline Family as Pauls
disciples were: chosen, associated, formed, guided.
Before everything else the Cooperator must be aware of who he or she is: a
Christian, a follower of Christ, a continuer of the same mission as Christ, a co-redeemer
of the world. A true Christian cannot feel exempt from apostolic commitment. A Christian
truly aware of his or her calling and responsibility is a witness. Witness and apostolate are
a spontaneous reflection of firm convictions and interior graces.
If every Christian has the duty to evangelize by gift of his baptism and
confirmation, the apostolate is particularly proper for the lay person called by the Lord to
a specific commitment. And the Pauline Cooperator has received from the Lord a calling
and a mandate: a calling that he must answer and a mandate that he must live with love
and dynamic fidelity.
The Pauline Cooperator will answer the call through the authenticity of his life,
with conviction and with a mind open to the signs of the times, and so will be a credible
witness and a perceptive apostle.
In this way the Pauline Cooperator will give an answer to the Lord and will fulfill
the mandate received from him. The Cooperator lives an interior life expressed
in apostolic action. These two dimensions cannot be separated because one is in the
11
12
http://www.alberione.org/sacerdote/eng/giugno_27_eng.html
Blessed James Alberione often referred to the language of the medium and media as a language form.
Medias language is identified in connotative meaning, signs, iconography, music, lighting, camera angles,
mise en scene, editing etc. The Church began wholeheartedly adopting the language of Media Literacy in
the 1992 document: "Dawn of a New Era." To become media literate we consider core questions and core
concepts: http://www.medialit.org/sites/default/files/14A_CCKQposter.pdf
84
other. It is contemplation that guides action just as action receives continuous

nourishment from interior life and from contemplation. In this way the Pauline
Cooperator effectively answers his or her vocation. The Cooperators, as Fr. Alberione
says, are persons who understand the Pauline Family and have with her union of spirit
and purposes... They desire to have the union of spirit for their holiness and in order to
advance with zeal in the Pauline apostolate, through their contribution of prayers,
offerings and works. From this two goals follow: sanctification and apostolate of
which there is so much need, today more than ever, in the third millennium!
As integral members of the Pauline Family, the Cooperators share with her the
apostolic ideal of living and announcing Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life to the
people of today and with the means of today. As "lay faithful straining forward, they
share the spirituality based on Jesus Master Way, Truth and Life committing the totality
of their human person to Christ: mind (truth), will (way) and heart (life); entrusting
themselves to Mary, Mother, Teacher and Queen of the Apostles, the one who inspires,
enlightens and guides at the school of Jesus Master for the apostolate; and to Saint Paul,
the Apostle to the Gentiles, chosen to announce the Gospel, as father, because of his great
love for Christ: the Pauline letters testify to this love and inspire the Cooperator in his
vocation and mission.
It is not insignificant that the Association of Pauline Cooperators, associated to
the Society of St. Paul, has been approved by the Holy See, through a Decree of the
Congregation of Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life, because of
its commitment to the spiritual and apostolic life. Being aware of the great value of
Christian presence in the world, the Cooperators are called to live their lay vocation as
the Founder said at high tension, to be salt of the earth, light of the world, and
"ferment in the dough.
Conclude with social time
References for Further Study:
85
a.
Handbook of the Pauline Cooperator, pgs. 34-43
2. Recommended Reading:
a. Catechism of the Catholic Church. Articles, 900; 1213-1264; 1691-1729
b. http://www.stpauls.it/studi/maestro/inglese/dasilva/ingdas03.htm
c. http://www.usccb.org/about/justice-peace-and-humandevelopment/upload/baptism-handout.pdf
Decalogue of the Pauline Cooperator according to Blessed James Alberione

l. Attends to his greater sanctification according to his vocation as disciple of Jesus the Divine
Master, the Way, the Truth and the Life, under the gaze of Mary, Queen of Apostles and in the
spirit of Saint Paul.
2. Reads, meditates, lives and spreads the Gospel.
3. Has the same sentiments of Christ: knows, believes, and loves as He does.
4. Proclaims and gives witness like Saint Paul: It is no longer I that live, Christ lives in me.
5. Lives the Eucharist and pours out the love received into every form of apostolic activity.
6. Stands out for his deep love for the Church, living the commitments of Christian community.
7. Is in union of mind and heart with the Pauline Family, with whom he prays, offers and
collaborates.
8. Attentive to the signs of the times, he lets the Word of truth reach everybody, employing the
instruments of communication.
9. Like Mary, Queen of the Apostles and first collaborator of the Redemption, he gives to the
world her Son, Jesus Christ, the Way, the Truth and the Life, the Master and Shepherd.
10. In intimate union with Christ, he faces with courage and hope, like Saint Paul, the sacrifices
of the mission.
Session 1
Fully Mature with the Fullness of Christ (Eph. 4:13)
86
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: The Pauline Family

In the Statutes of the Pauline Cooperator we read that cooperator with prayer is the
most necessary. The Statutes suggest personal and communitarian prayer in union of
spirit with the Pauline Family.
1. What are some of the ways that prayer is a commitment in your daily life?
2. How is this prayer united to the prayers of the Pauline Family throughout the world?
Are there some ways you may suggest that Pauline Cooperators may unite themselves in
prayer for the spread of the kingdom of God in the world through the practice of the
apostolate of the media of social communication
3. By striving to live as Christ, each of us fulfills the call to holiness. In Session 1 of the
Time of Preparation we reflected on the Spiritual Commitments of the Pauline
Cooperator. Session 2 will reiterate this commitment and deepen an understanding of
particular charismatic elements in Pauline prayer. What are these elements? How will
they affect your prayer life?
As a cooperator with prayer in the Pauline Family you also share in the prayers of the
Pauline Priests, Brothers and Sisters as well as the Institutes of the Pauline Family and
fellow Cooperators. This is a great consolation when we reflect on the mission of
evangelization being carried out by over 5,000 members of the Pauline Family in over 50
countries. We pray the Lord of the Harvest to continue sending laborers into his fields
and that our union with Jesus who is head of the Body his Church will allow us to
share in his redemptive mission for the salvation of the world.
Time of Preparation
87
Session: 2
The Spirit Intercedes For the Holy Ones

According to Gods Will Romans 8: 26
The theme for this session: Pauline Prayer Life
Points to Cover:
-
Life-giving prayer that involves the whole person
Prayer that renews our commitment to holiness
Life transformed into prayer and prayer that gives life
You will need:

-
A Bible
The movie Jesus 1979 or 1999 version or another DVD on the life of Christ and a DVR set
up in the prayer area. (This movie is also found on the Internet.)
Instrumental music and songs.
Christian Prayer (The Liturgy of the Hours). The Office of Jesus Master is included for
reproduction if members do not yet have a book of Christian Prayer.
Candles, incense, an icon of Jesus, and an open Bible for Lectio Divina
The Opening Invocations:

Leader:
Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life

Leader:
Mary, Queen of the Apostles

Leader:
1.
Adoring Jesus Truth
88
Time Allotted: 20 minutes (approximate)

This session of the Time of Preparation will be a prayer experience encompassing the
whole person and introducing various forms of Pauline prayer.
Sing or play an appropriate hymn. Suggestion: Holy Spirit Come and Shine
A Reading from the Statute and Directory of the Pauline Cooperators 13 where it
speaks of the forms of cooperation
Prayer: this is the most necessary cooperation. It consists in offering personal and
communitarian prayers for the diffusion of the Gospel and the coming of the Kingdom of
God in the world. The Cooperator cultivates a profound prayer of praise, thanksgiving,
reparation and intercession in Christ, and also promotes prayer initiatives in his/her
environment (15)
Each Cooperator is called to witness through life and word to the Gospel that he/she
proclaims. To this end, time should be dedicated to reading and meditating on the Word,
to participation in the Eucharistic Celebration, to the Hour of Adoration before the
Blessed Sacrament, and to the Sacrament of Reconciliation (15.1).
The Cooperator offers his/her daily activities, prayers and suffering in reparation for the
evil caused by misuse of social communications. (15.2)
Together let us pray:
The Prayer of the Pauline Cooperator
O God, to communicate your love to all, you sent your only Son, Jesus Christ, into the
world and made him our Master, the Way, Truth and Life of humanity.
Grant that the media of communication: press, film, radio, television, movies, the
internet, music, and apps may be used for your glory and the good of all people.
Raise up vocations in your Church and in the Pauline Family for this multi-media
apostolate, and inspire everyone of good will to cooperate with prayer, action and
offerings, so that through these powerful means the Church may preach the Gospel to all
peoples. Amen.
From the writings of Blessed James Alberione
13
This is from the Statute And Directory of the Association of Pauline Cooperators affiliated with the
Daughters of St. Paul (2013 - ad experimentum). You may also like to refer to The Statutes of 1985 which
were a revision of Blessed Alberiones original Statutes of the Pauline Cooperator. They were updated
again in 1992 http://www.paulus.net/doc/statuto/cp/StatutoCP_eng.pdf
89
Jesus wants to be our life: I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full
(Jn 10:10). And it is the will of the Father that we receive life from Jesus: It is to the
glory of my Father that you should bear much fruit, and then you will be my disciples
(Jn 15:8).
We honor Jesus Life by asking him for the abundance of his life, his grace, his sanctity.
In the presence of the magnificent virtue and sanctity which we discover in the life of the
Master, we feel the necessity of resembling him and of praying for his help, and Jesus,
called to accomplish in us his most ardent desire, will grant us the abundance of his
Spirit, who will work in us until Christ is formed in us (Gal 4:19).
We see the sanctity of the Father in the Son, and by imitating the Son we imitate the
Father, To have seen me is to have seen the Father (Jn 14:9). 14
Pause for Reflection
Leader: Now we will listen and see the Word of God presented in the video Jesus. Let
us reflect on the virtues and attitudes of Jesus while contemplating his life of prayer.
Play a part of the video Jesus (set it to the Parable of the Seed, Lk 8:4 ff.).
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-o2JHhHXys
To the Leader: Have copies of the Gospel passages used in this film for each participant
to meditate on after the showing.
Or use this translation http://www.sobicain.org/introduccionesEng.asp
Leader: We now enter into meditation on this specific passage from the Gospel.
Meditation helps us to orient our life. It is necessary for those who aspire to holiness.
There are many topics that may be used for meditation: the Creed, the Catechism,
passages from the New Testament - particularly from the liturgy of the day.
1. In the first part of meditation we silently read the chosen passage. [This is
sanctification of our mind.]
2. As we admire the virtues of Jesus and listen to his words we think about how they
apply to our life. [This is sanctification of our will.]
3. We realize that we are not able to imitate Jesus without his help. In the third part of
the meditation we ask Jesus for the graces necessary to grow in our Christian life and
for his help in our resolve to avoid sin. [This is sanctification of our heart.]
14
Alberione, The Following of Christ the Master (private use), 30-31.
90
Steps of Meditation:
-
As you take up this passage from the Gospel again (hand out the Gospel passage that
was played on the video or have everyone open Bibles to this passage) we remember
Christs words and actions. We place ourselves in his presence and listen as he speaks
to us. [I am the Truth]
After this time of reading we reflect on the words and actions of Jesus and apply them
to our life. How can I imitate Jesus in a particular virtue? [I am the Way]
Once we realize the particular way that Jesus is calling us to respond to him we ask
him for the grace to be holy. For example, you realize that Jesus is calling you to
listen to others patiently. You ask Jesus to help you imitate the way he was present to
the people in his life. [I am the Life]
Take ten minutes to meditate on the Gospel passages.
[This is a good daily practice. The priests and religious of the Pauline Family set
aside a half hour for meditation in the morning or evening.]
Sing or play an appropriate song. No Longer I
2.
Adoring Jesus Way
Fr. Alberione gave the Pauline Family the Hour of Adoration or Visit to Jesus in the
Blessed Sacrament as a daily prayer. He invites us to hear the words: Come to me,
all you who labor and are overburdened and I will give you rest. Learn from me for I
am gentle and humble of heart, and you will find rest for your souls (Mt 11:28-30).
The Pauline Family was born from the tabernacle. As a young man, James Alberione
knelt in prayer during Eucharistic adoration on the night that divided the nineteenth
and twentieth century. It was there, before the tabernacle that he received Gods
invitation to found the Pauline Family. This family lives and is nourished at the
Eucharistic font. Let us go to the source, invites Fr. Alberione. There we find
Jesus, alive and true, ready to welcome us, listen to us, instruct us, make us happy,
and communicate to us.
Let us reflect on the meaning of this visit with Jesus. We will each take turns reading
one thought aloud:
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The Visit is the meeting of our soul and of all our being with Jesus.
It is the creature meeting his Creator;
The disciple before the Divine Master;
The patient with the Doctor of souls;
The poor one appealing to the Rich One;
The thirsty drinking at the Font;
The weak presenting himself to the Almighty;
The tempted seeking sure Refuge;
The blind searching for the Light;
The friend who goes to the true Friend;
The lost sheep sought by the Divine Shepherd;
The heart astray who finds the Way;
The fool who finds Wisdom;
The bride who finds the Spouse of her soul;
The nothing who finds the All;
The afflicted who finds the Consoler;
The youth who finds lifes meaning.
You were born of the

Eucharist,
Your food is the Eucharist,
Your spirituality is the
Gospel, lived in its entirety
as explained by
St. Paul,
Your mother and model is
Mary.
Bl. James Alberione
~ Blessed James Alberione

Leader: The purpose of the Hour of Adoration is to lead you to the heights of union with
the Lord: Our union with Jesus must be totalwe must live in continual union with
God. The Lord wants us closely bound to him, to live in continual communion, in
continual adoration. That is, to have a mind identified with that of Jesus, a heart
identified with his heart, a life identified always more with his. (Fr. James Alberione)
The structure of the Pauline Hour of Adoration (Visit) follows a threefold definition that
Jesus gave of himself: I am the Way, the Truth and the Life. The Hour is divided up into
three parts. The first part in honor of Jesus Truth, seeks to allow the truth of Christ to
penetrate our mind. The second part is in honor of Jesus Way, and focuses on the
contemplation of the Divine Master as our model, helping us to verify our daily choices.
The third part is in honor of Jesus Life, where we are encouraged to open our hearts
completely to Jesus, to be touched by his sustaining grace and peace.
Pauline Cooperators are introduced to this method through the Formation Manual. The
time of prayer preceding each meeting is an integral part of Pauline Formation.
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Reflection (instrumental music)

3.
Group Prayer. Adoring Jesus Life.
For our group prayer we will use the prayer of the Church also called
Christian Prayer or the Liturgy of the Hours.
The Liturgy of the Hours developed into the prayer of the Church from the ancient
practice of reciting the 150 psalms each week. [The rosary also developed from this
practice.] It is a source of devotion and nourishment for personal prayer. As the prayer of
the Church it is an unceasing prayer and expresses the genuine nature of the praying
Church when recited in community. Everyone shares in this prayer which is proper to the
one body as it offers prayers that give expression to the voice of the beloved spouse of
Christ (the Church), to the hopes and desires of the whole Christian people, to
supplications and petition for the needs of all mankind (cf. Apostolic Constitution on
Christian Prayer, the Liturgy of the Hours).
To the Leader: Depending on what time of day you meet you will use morning, evening
or night prayer. You will need copies for each participant. If you do not have a copy of
Christian Prayer use the copy provided along with copies of the Bible (Psalms). The
antiphons are prayed together. The leader may pray the Psalms with the antiphons
repeated between stanzas or if participants have Bibles you may alternate sides between
stanzas.
In Honor of Jesus Christ our Divine Master
Leader:
God, come to my assistance.
Response: Lord, make haste to help me.

Leader:
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit.
Response: As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.

Hymn of your choice. Suggestion: Above All by Michael W. Smith
Antiphon 1: To you, O Lord, I lift up my soul.
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Psalm 63: 2-9 A Soul Thirsting for God

Antiphon 2: I will praise your name, my King and my God.
Canticle of Daniel 3: 57-88, 56 Let all creatures praise the Lord.
The response after each line is: Bless the Lord.
Antiphon 3: The Lord is my Light and my Salvation.
Psalm 149 Feast for the friends of God.
Reading from the First Letter of John 2:24, 27-28
Responsorial (following bold areas are recited by the congregation)
Christ, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us.
-
Christ, Son of the Living God, have mercy on us.
You are our only Master,

-
Have mercy on us.
-
Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on us.
Antiphon: Master, we know that you are truthful and teach the way of God in truth.
Canticle of Zechariah (Luke 1: 67-79) Alternate sides
Leader: Blessed be the Lord the God of Israel. He has come to his people and set them
free. He has raised up for us a mighty savior born of the house of his servant David.
1. Through his holy prophets he promised of old that he would save us from our
enemies; from the hands of all who hate us. He promised to show mercy to our
fathers and to remember his holy covenant.
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2. This was the oath he swore to our father, Abraham to set us free from the hands of our
enemies, free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight all the days
of our life.
3. You, my child shall be called the prophet of the most high for you will go before the
Lord to prepare his way, to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness
of their sins.
4. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us to
shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death and to guide our feet
into the way of peace.
5. Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit as it was in the beginning is
now and will be forever. Amen.
Intercessions
United together we give praise to Christ, whom the Father has sent as Teacher, and we
pray to him:
Response: Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life, save us!
Christ, you are the light that shines in the darkness, the Lord of life and the only way of
salvation,
-
Grant that your Church which journeys toward you be faithful to the spirit of
the Gospel.
Christ our Savior, who for us became obedient to God unto death, and to death on the
cross,
-
Grant that everyone may attain in abundance the fullness of life that you
communicated to us through your death.
Christ Jesus, you have given us the example of love so that as you have done we also
may do,
-
Grant that in dedication and service to our brothers and sisters, we all may be
witnesses for all of the new life we live in you.
Christ, Son of the Father, you who have made us a royal, priestly and prophetic people,
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Grant that every day we may joyfully raise our sacrifice of praise to you.
Lord Jesus remember us when you come into your Kingdom: Our Father
Prayer:
O Almighty and eternal God, who in your love have sent us your only Son as universal
Teacher, grant that we may learn his divine teaching in order to more easily understand
supernatural realities. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen.
4.
Break
5. Meditation/Lectio Divina
Lectio Divina
The phrase lectio divina means divine reading. Lectio is also thought of as reverential
listening. The practice of lectio divina came into being in monasteries during the Middle
Ages. The primary books used at the time were the books of the Bible. These are still
the books of choice. Lectio divina allows you to take the scriptures into your life.
Contemplatio (contemplation) and actio (action) are fruits of lectio divina.
-
First invite the Spirit of Jesus to take over your entire being. Opening prayer.
Lectio (read) Slowly read the chosen text aloud.
Meditatio (pondering) Reflect on the Word you have just read and enter into its
mystery. Repeat a word or phrase that impresses you. Reflect on it. What other
passages of the Bible come to mind? Write down (or share if you are in a group) your
thought and keep it as your inspiration for the day.
Read the scriptural passage aloud again.
Oratio (prayer) Let God descend upon you. Provide him with a vessel. Enter into
conversation with God. Let your prayer ascend in the name of Jesus, our Savior.
Pray from the heart. Pray aloud if you wish.
Contemplatio (elevation of the soul to God) Remain in silence pondering the Word
of God. Turn your gaze to the Trinity and listen.
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Actio (action) In order that the Word of God may be fruitful in our lives we
coordinate the souls longings and the deeds of every day. We witness to what we
have seen and heard (1 Jn. 1:1-4).
Lectio divina is more than a school of prayer;

it is above all an experience of life
leading to the practice of good actions.
Prayer before Lectio Divina

Lord, feed me
With your Body and your Word
And I will be able to run along your paths.
Lord, make me understand your mysteries of salvation
And I will see your glory on the face of the other.
Lord, I am hungry, I am thirsty
For the Bread and the Word.
satisfy my spirit and quench its thirst.
Lord, teach me to ponder your Word,
To listen to the groaning of the Spirit
Who dwells in our hearts.
Help us to discover the roots of your love,
The little sprouts of hope,
And the fruits of justice and peace
Which flourish in the bosom of our world
And which announce a new
Springtime for our world.
Come Holy Spirit, come fill our hearts.
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Luke 8:415
A great crowd gathered. People were coming
to Jesus from every town.
He told them this parable:
A farmer went out to plant his seed. While
he was planting, some seed fell beside the
road. People walked on the seed, and the
birds ate it. Some seed fell on the rocks. It
began to grow but then died because it had no
water. Some seed fell among thorny weeds.
This seed grew, but later the weeds choked the
good plants. Some seed fell on good ground.
This seed grew and produced one hundred
times more grain.
Jesus finished the parable. Then he called out,
Hear me, listen.
Jesus followers asked him. What does this
story mean?
Pick up a book from which you can

hear the wisdom of God: the Bible,
especially the Gospels; a book of
spiritual reading; the lives of the
saints. Sit in the shade of Wisdom
(Wis 6:12), or at the feet of Jesus as
Mary did (Lk 10:38-42), or in a crowd
around Jesus (see Mt 5); or kneel in
the temple before the theophany,
where the angels cry out, Holy,
holy, holy (Isa 6). Use your
imagination if it assists you in
entering the reading. Read short
passages several times if repetition
breaks open a passage in new ways
for you. Here you can apply what
you have learned about lectio divina
or centering prayer.
Sr. Kathryn James Hermes, fsp

Jesus said, You have been chosen to know
the secrets of the kingdom of God. I use
parables to speak to people so that They will look, but they may not see. They will listen
but they will not understand (Isaiah 6:9). This is what the parable means:
The seed is the Word of God. The seed that fell beside the road is like the people who
hear Gods Word, but then the devil comes and takes it from their hearts. So they cannot
believe the teaching and be saved. What is the seed that fell on rock? It is like those who
hear Gods Word and accept it gladly. But they dont have deep roots. They believe for a
while, but then trouble comes. They stop believing and turn away from God. What is the
seed that fell among the thorny weeds? It is like those who hear Gods teaching, but they
let the worries, riches and pleasures of life keep them from growing. So they never
produce good fruit. And what is the seed that fell on the good ground? That is like those
who hear Gods teaching with a good, honest heart. They obey Gods Word and patiently
produce good fruit. (Trans. St. Paul New Testament)
Option: instrumental music
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1. Required Reading
Original Statutes of the Pauline Cooperator15; page 27 # 4 - 4.2
Catechism of the Catholic Church;
Articles 2697-99; 1174-78; 2705-08; 2723; 2633; 2601; 2608; 2609-10
Tugwell, Simon, O.P. Prayer Living With God. Templegate Publications.
Springfield, IL: 1975
Tugwell, Simon O.P. Prayer Volume 1 and 2. Veritas Publications.
Dublin: 1984
Hermes, Sr. Kathryn James, F.S.P. The Journey Within: Prayer as a Path to God,
Pauline Books & Media (www.pauline.org).
Hermes, Sr. Kathryn James, F.S.P. Beginning Contemplative Prayer,
Pauline Books & Media (www.pauline.org).
On the Web: Lectio Divina Sister Disciples of the Divine Master

Check your local Pauline Cooperator library to borrow these out of print titles:
Alberione, James S.S.P. Pray Always. Pauline Books & Media
Alberione, James S.S.P. Mystical Union with God. Pauline Books & Media
Alberione, James S. S. P. Lord, Teach Us to Pray. Pauline Books & Media.
Session 2
15
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The Spirit Intercedes for the Holy Ones According to Gods Will (Romans 8:26).
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: Pauline Prayer Life
A scriptural theme has been chosen for Lectio Divina: Luke 8:4-15 The Parable of the
Seed. Within this session is an invitation slowly and prayerfully enter into the ancient
Christian Divine Reading of the Word of God.
1. What other ways of entering into prayer were introduced in Session 2 Time of
Preparation?
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________
2. Fr. Alberione gave the Pauline Family a book of prayers in which he said the Pauline
spirit may be found. In what way can prayer deepen the gift of the Pauline charism in
our life so that it may be shared with the whole Church?
3. How can you benefit from the various types of prayer that are suggested in this
session: the prayers of the Church (Lectio Divina and Christian Prayer) as well as the
prayer common to the Pauline Family (meditation, Eucharistic adoration, prayers written
by Fr. Alberione)?
Using free time in the airport, traffic, or on the subway:
_________________________________________________________________
Setting aside a quiet time in the morning or evening for prayer in a sacred place in the
home:
_________________________________________________________________
Attending Eucharist benediction or adoration offered in the local parish:
_________________________________________________________________
Other: ___________________________________________________________
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4. Reflect on how the Spirit intercedes for us when we dont know how to pray:
The soul of every apostolate is truly the interior lifeHere on earth everything is a
school of love. We can always feel the flame of love in the ardent furnace of the heart of
Jesus. Let us feel this flame of love. We intend to love God with the heart of Mary, with
the heart of Jesus. Little by little our sentiments will be transformed and love will
become a passion which absorbs all, transforms all, is nourished by everything, and
simplifies everything. It will absorb all the powers of our soul and will put our whole
being at his service. Let us always; love; love everyone; love as the heart of Jesus loves!
Alberione The Schools of Love The Pauline Practices of Piety
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Time of Preparation
Session: 3
The Gospel I preach came through

a revelation of Jesus Christ. Cf. Gal. 1:12

The theme for this session: Pauline Evangelization
Points to cover:
-
Evangelizations only point of departure is Jesus Christ, The Way, the Truth and the
Life (Jn. 14:6).
Witnessing to the faith through lives of holiness.
Living the faith and communicating the faith.
You will need:

-
A Bible
A copy of the The Men, the Mission, the Ministry, the Society of St. Pauls vocational
video, a similar Pauline DVD (also found on the Internet).
Copies of Forms of Collaboration found in the appendix.
Suggested music: Sanctuary CD by Twila Paris; Lord You Have Come to the
Seashore (Pescadores De Hombres).
1. Adoring Jesus Truth
Time allotted: 25 minutes approximately
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This session of the time of preparation will re-introduce the Pauline Cooperator to
the Pauline mission of evangelization with the media and broaden that perspective to
evangelization of culture.
Leader:
Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life

Leader:
Mary, Queen of the Apostles

Leader:

Sing or play an appropriate hymn.
Suggestion: We Shall Assemble Sanctuary by Twila Paris
A Reading from the 1985 Statutes of the Pauline Cooperators
In the thought of the Founder, Fr. James Alberione, the Association of Pauline
Cooperators should assume a parish and diocesan structure, because these are the
surroundings in which the cooperator is often called to work. It will, therefore, be the
commitment of individuals and groups, in communion with the superiors of the Pauline
Family, to study the ways of realizing the intention of the Founder and to render a
precious service to the local Church (11.1).
A Reading from the Acts of the Apostles Chapter 11: 19-26; 13: 1-4
From the Writings of Blessed James Alberione
If St. Paul were living today, he would still be burning with that dual flame that springs
from the same fire: zeal for God and his Christ, and for people of every nation. And to
make himself heard, he would mount the most famous pulpits and would multiply his
words with the media that present-day progress has furnished: press, motion pictures,
radio and television. His would be no cold abstract doctrine. When he arrived in a city,
he did not simply show up for an occasional conference. He stayed and formed people,
winning their intellectual assent, persuading and converting them, joining them to Christ,
and setting them out on a fully Christian way of life. He left behind disciples to continue
his work; he returned often with his spoken and written word. He wanted to hear from
them, he was with them in spirit, and he prayed for them (CISP 1152).
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St. Paul formed the Pauline Family, of which he is the founder. It is not that the Paulines
chose him; rather he chose us. In fact, he begot us: In Christ Jesus, through the Gospel,
did I beget you (1 Cor. 4:15). The purpose of the Pauline Family is to represent Paul
today.
The Pauline Family aspires to live the two precepts of charity in a perfect way in the
religious life and in the apostolate; whereas the Cooperators strive to live the same two
precepts through an ever-better Christian life and by helping in the apostolate. All
together we have a union of persons who aim and help one another to promote the glory
of God and good will among humans, in accordance with the example of Saint Paul
(Abundantes Divitiae Gratiae Suae, 344).
Prayer together:
Prayer to St. Paul
Holy Apostle who with your teachings and with your charity
taught the entire world, look kindly upon us, your children and disciples.
We expect everything from your prayers to the Divine Master and
to Mary, Queen of the Apostles.
Grant, Preacher to the Gentiles, that we may live by faith,
save ourselves by hope, and that charity alone reign in us.
Obtain for us, chosen of God, docility to divine grace,
so that it may not remain unfruitful in us.
Grant that we may ever better know you, love you, and imitate you; may
we be living members of the Church, the Mystical Body of Jesus Christ.
Raise up many and holy apostles.
Grant that all may glorify God and the Divine Master, Way and Truth and Life.
And, Lord Jesus, you know we have no faith in our own powers; in your mercy
grant that we may be defended against all adversity through the powerful
intercession of St. Paul, our teacher and father.
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From the Diary of Blessed Timothy Giaccardo

Blessed Timothys description of his first profession of vows, which took place on
December 8, 1917.
After vespers, the statue of Mary was placed in the best room in place of the usual
statue of St. Paul. There was no chapel yet. Our beloved good Father (Alberione)
vested himself in surplice and stole and then addressed us, who regarded him with
wonder, as follows:
I am speaking to you vested with surplice and stole because I have something very
important to convey to you. We often speak about the need for promoting a better
press. There are many that are working towards this end; they consecrate a part of
their time and energy to this purpose. Some do this for the honor of it; some do it for
gain; some do it because they like to do it. We, however, do not aim to work for
either honor or gain or enjoyment; nor are we even concerned with the press for its
own sake. Rather, we seek the glory of God and the triumph of Jesus Christ in human
society. We seek the salvation of souls by means of a better press. You want to
dedicate your whole life to God in the apostolate of the press; you want to spend in
this work your time and your ingenuity. There are only four of you now, but there
were only four among the very first Jesuits who placed their vows in the hands of St.
Ignatius of Loyola. This is therefore an historical day. Record these facts, because
several centuries hence, those who will come after us need to know how modest and
humble the beginnings of this house were. This is not for our own glory; but merely
to show how God can make use of the smallest instruments in order to accomplish his
greatest feats. It is no merit of mine to have opened up this house; the merit belongs
to St. Paul, who prayed to Mary Immaculate about it, and the Immaculate prayed to
God.
Prayer together:
Ecumenical Prayer to Mary
Hail, Mary, our Mother, Teacher and Queen.
In your goodness, listen to the petition, which we present to you
according to the will of Jesus:
Pray the Lord of the harvest to send laborers into his harvest.
Turn your merciful eyes upon the five billion people
living on this earth. Many of them are wandering in darkness without a father,
a shepherd, a teacher.
God made you an apostle to give Jesus, Way, Truth and Life,
to the world. By having recourse to you, they will find the road that leads to Jesus.
Through you may all Catholics work with all their strength for all vocations,
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for all apostolates.

Through you, may all the faithful work for all unbelievers,
all the fervent for all the indifferent,
all the Catholics for all non-Catholics.
Through you, may all those called correspond,
may all apostles be holy, may they be welcomed by all men and women.
At the foot of the cross, your heart expanded to welcome us all as you children.
Obtain for us an apostolic heart, modeled after your heart,
the hearts of Jesus and St. Paul,
so that one day you may have us all, apostles and faithful, around you in heaven.
Bless your spiritual sons and daughters, Mary, Teacher and Queen.
Excerpts from the Papal address following the Beatification of
Blessed Timothy Giaccardo
(Monday, October 23, 1989 Pope John Paul II)
It is truly a singular joy to meet all the congregations
founded by Fr. James Alberione. What a religious family!
I must add, what a flowering of vocations is yours, and
what ecclesiastical ministry inspired by the needs of
modern life, you are fulfilling! Your service to the Gospel
is constantly attentive to the situations, the changing
needs, and modern occasions for the spread of the word of
Christ. The Lord has blessed your communities and
spread them as the founder foresaw and planned
throughout the whole world. He made them a living and
meaningful sign for the progress of the Gospel in our day.
From the first, basic and daring idea of the Society of St.
Paul there arose such a rich and well-structured series of communities, all of which are
engaged in the service of evangelization through communications: publication of books,
of up-to-date periodicals in keeping with the style and mentality of the era, radio
broadcasts; there is also the visual technique, obviously including computerized systems
of communications and the methods of satellite transmission on a global scale.
2. Adoring Jesus Way
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Spend some time in gratitude for Gods many graces and blessings on our Pauline Family
from its beginning until today.Then pause for reflection on what follows. Instrumental
music or a song of reflection may be played.
Questions and thoughts for personal reflection from Fr. Alberione:
What is the spirit of St. Paul? He is the one who points out the Divine Master.
Paul meditated on the words and life of Jesus and then adapted them to the world, to
the needs of his time and to the needs of various nations.
How can I help others feel the effective presence of Jesus Christ in their life?
An apostle is one who carries God in his soul and radiates him around himself. The
apostle has a heart on fire with love of God and of humanity; the apostle can neither
restrain nor ignore what he feels and thinks. The apostle is a temple of the Blessed
Trinity. The apostle exudes God from all his pores with words, work, prayer,
attitudes, whether in public or in privatefrom his entire being.
It is clear that holiness and mission unite in the same person and in the same life.
The mission, the activity, is born of contemplation, of prayer. The heart full of love
of God and neighbor is a fountain that overflows its contents around it. You give
Jesus Christ to those who surround you because your heart is full.
Pray a personal act of humility and confidence.

3. Adoring Jesus Life
Our Pauline Spirit roots our whole existence in Christ the Master, Way, Truth and
Life, and makes us live for the Gospel as radically as St. Paul did. God has chosen
us; he calls us to light and love. This call is directed to us with great generosity. The
Lord has made us sharers in his death and resurrection in order that we might dedicate
our lives to the announcement of the Gospel, and thus become always more
configured to Christ (1988 FSP Resources Booklet).
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Leader: Let us respond to this call to the Pauline vocation with the
Creed of the Called. We will alternate sides for each paragraph.
WE believe that God chose us in him before the world began, to be holy and
blameless in his sight (Eph. 1:4).
WE believe that those whom he foreknew he predestined to share the image of his
Son (Rom. 8:29).
WE believe that God who had set us apart before we were born and called us by his
favor chose to reveal his son in us, that we might spread among all people the
good tidings concerning him (Gal. 1:15-16).
WE believe that God has saved us and has called us to a holy life, not because of any
merit of ours but according to his own design the grace held out to us in Christ
Jesus before the world began (2 Tim. 1:12).
WE believe that we are apostles by vocation, servants of Christ Jesus, set apart to
announce the Gospel of God (cf. Rom. 1:1).
WE believe God chose the weak of this world to shame the strong, so that our faith
would not rest on the wisdom of men but on the power of God (cf. 1 Cor. 1:27;
2:5).
We believe that to each one God has given the manifestation of the Spirit for the
common good (cf. 1 Cor. 12:7).
WE believe that we must live a life worthy of the calling which we have received:
with perfect humility, meekness and patience, seeking to grow in all things toward
him (cf. Eph. 4:1-2).
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WE believe that all things work together for the good of those who love God, who
have been called according to his decree (cf. Rom. 8:28).
WE believe in him whose power now at work in us can do immeasurably more than
we ask or imagine (cf Eph 3:20).
WE believe that he who has begun the good work in us will carry it through to
completion, right up to the day of Christ Jesus, because he who calls us is faithful
(cf. Phil 1:6, 1 Thess 5:24).
Leader: Keeping our vision as broad as that of our Father, St. Paul, let us pray for the
needs of humanity entrusted to us. Those who wish to do so may express their prayer
intentions aloud.
Leader: We gather our prayers spoken and silent, and present them in the name of
Jesus to the Father: Our Father
Closing Hymn: suggestion Lord, You Have Come, Fishers of Men (Pescador De
Hombres - found in Todays Missal or other hymnals.
4. Break and social
5. Gather in the meeting area
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Pauline Cooperator Commitments: Forms of Collaboration

From the Pauline Cooperator Statutes 16 # 15-17.
15.
Prayer
This is the most necessary cooperation. It consists in offering personal and
communitarian prayers for the diffusion of the Gospel and the coming of the
Kingdom of God in the world. The Cooperator cultivates a profound prayer of
praise, thanksgiving, reparation and intercession in Christ, and also promotes
prayer initiatives in his/her specific environment.
15.1 Each Cooperator is called to witness through life and word to the Gospel
that he/she proclaims. To this end, time should be dedicated to reading and
meditating on the Word, to participation in the Eucharistic Celebration, to the Hour
of Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, and to the Sacrament of
Reconciliation.
15.2 The Cooperator offers his/her daily activities, prayers and suffering in
reparation for the evil caused by misuse of social communications.
16. Works
The Cooperator shares in the work of evangelization of the Pauline Family in the
ways possible to him/her, according to his/her aptitudes and the time and means at
his/her disposal, in the different apostolates of the individual Pauline Institutions to
which he/she is connected.
16.1 The Cooperator lives in solidarity and fraternal charity toward everyone,
participating according to his/her possibilities in the different expressions of the
Pauline apostolate in the areas of publishing, production and diffusion. In doing so,
he/she is to take advantage of the radio, television, the new media and the Internet
and also offer his/her collaboration in the field of pastoral work for vocations,
animation, etc.
The Cooperator can also organize and manage other apostolic activities, especially
in the field of social communication.
16.2 The Cooperator offers his/her service gratuitously to fulfill the Pauline
mission and cannot ask for compensation from the Institute for any activity carried
out or any help provided.
16
This is from Statute and Directory: Guidelines for the Promotion and Formation of the Pauline
Cooperators Affiliated with the Institute of the Daughters of St. Paul (Ad experimentum 2013).
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17. Offerings
As a sign of his/her generosity and zeal, the Cooperator freely contributes,
according to his/her possibilities, to the apostolic initiatives of the Pauline Family so
as to help it reach its goals.
To the Leader:
Make copies of the section entitled Forms of Collaboration found in the appendix and
hand them out.
You may:
1. Lead a discussion on this section of the Statutes
2. Lead a discussion on The Parish as an Evangelizing Community.
After the discussion show a video on the Paulines that has not previously been shown
to the group. Suggested: The vocation video of the Society of St. Paul 17 minutes.
Videos of the Society of St. Paul
St. Paul Multimedia Presentation
Celebrating 100 Years Philippines TV
Society of St. Paul Mission USA
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Session 3
The gospel I preach came through a revelation of Jesus Christ (Gal. 1:2).
Distance Program Worksheet Theme: Pauline Evangelization
God can make use of the smallest instruments to accomplish his greatest feats. (Blessed
Timothy Giaccardo Notes from Fr. Alberione)
1. Pope John Paul, in his address for the beatification of Fr. Timothy Giaccardo, said
that the Pauline apostolate is a living and meaningful sign for the progress of the
Gospel. As a Pauline Cooperator you will be a living and meaningful sign for the
Gospel for all those whom you meet. Before all other activities how will you witness
through your life as a Pauline apostle in todays world?
2. As Paulines we are called to listen to the signs of the times. Fr. Alberione invites
us to bring the Word of God to the people of today with the means of today. In
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saying this he invites us to be aware of the culture we live in, the people we live and
work with, the many needs of society and the Church.
a. What are the ways you will be aware of the signs of the times in order to bear
the message of Jesus to the people of today?
b. In choosing literature or periodicals to assist you in knowledge of culture and

needs in the Church and society what are your criteria?
When you love the Lord much

you shall be inventive and you
will find a thousand ways to
share Jesus with others.
Alberione
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c. Each of us called to live the Pauline charism realizes a particular mission within
the Pauline Family. In what way do you feel the call to evangelization through the
media?
3. The handout on Forms of Collaboration gives a variety of ways to serve the Gospel.
Fr. Alberiones vision was integral: The Gospel is not just a message to share with
others but a way of life a relationship with a person Jesus the Gospel of God.
The Pauline Family accomplishes mission by living the liturgy, listening to and
preserving the Word, nourishing ourselves on the Eucharist, giving thanks to God the
Father for everything, directing all to him, orienting our thoughts and feelings to
divine life(Alberione). In this light what are your reflections on evangelizing within
the parish community? How will this assist us in bringing the Gospel message to the
culture?
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Time of Preparation
Session: 4
According to my Gospel and the

proclamation of Jesus Christ (Rom. 25).

The theme for this session: The Pauline Charism
Points to cover:
-
Charism: a gift to the Church
The specific charism of the Pauline Institutes
The action of the Spirit in the Founder

You will need:
A Bible
PowerPoint presentation on the Pauline Charism
Music: Behold the Lamb CD from Renewal Music (optional)

Leader:
Jesus, Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life.

Leader:
Mary, Queen of the Apostles.

Leader:
St. Paul the Apostle.

1. Adoring Jesus Truth
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Sing or play an appropriate hymn.
(Suggestion: I Saw Heaven Open from the CD Behold the Lamb)
A Reading from Joel 2:23-27; 3:1-2
Leader: This reading from Joel reflects Gods fidelity to His promises. Peter quotes
Joel in the Acts of the Apostles showing this promise as fulfilled in an eminent way by
the gift of the Holy Spirit.
A Reading from the Acts 2: 1-4; 14-21
Pauline Charism by Fr. Fabio Ciardi, OMI (adapted)
On August 20, 1914 the first two boys joined Fr. Alberione. At the same time Teresa
Merlo joined Angela Boffi in her home to assist with the sewing workshop. The impulse
of the Spirit had already completed a long journey in the Founder so that his first
confused ideas were becoming clearer. Within one year Fr. Alberione began two
branches of the Pauline family: the Pious Society of St. Paul and the Pious Society
Daughters of St Paul. As these groups formed, elements of the extraordinary charism of
Blessed Alberione came into focus. God prepared and called them to live this specific
gift given to the Church. Drawing from the journey up to this point, we can list the
charismatic elements as follows:
-
The mystery of Christ seen as the Teacher, the Way, the Truth and Life, in whom all is
found and towards whom all tends: Come to me all of you (Mt. 11:28).
Pastoral, liturgical, evangelical service in the Church and evangelization of the culture
through writers, technicians and evangelizers who are faithful to the Successor of Peter.
A community of consecrated apostles who give themselves totally to God and to the
Church working through the means of the times.
A journey of sanctification centered on the Eucharist, the Word of God, the spirit of St.
Paul and Mary, Queen of the Apostles, characterized by total trust in God, naturalness
and simplicity.
The charism is an experience of God lived by the Founder. In Blessed James Alberione it
comprises:
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The mystery of Christ the Master, Way, Truth and Life,
Lived in a Eucharistic
Biblical
Pauline and
Marian perspective and
Proclaimed in the Church as evangelization of the culture through the means of the
media
With persons dedicated to God.
Pray Together:
Entrusting of Oneself to Mary
Receive me, Mary, Mother, Teacher and Queen, among those whom you love,
nourish, sanctify and guide, in the school of Jesus Christ, the Divine Master.
You identify in Gods mind those who he calls, and for them you have special
prayers, grace, light and consolation.
My Master Jesus Christ entrusted himself wholly to you, from the Incarnation to
the Ascension.
For me this is doctrine, example and an ineffable gift.
Obtain for me the grace to know, imitate and love ever more the Divine Master,
Way and Truth and Life.
Present me to Jesus, for I am an unworthy sinner, and I have no other
recommendation to be admitted to his school than your recommendation.
Enlighten my mind, fortify my will, sanctify my heart, during this year of my
spiritual work, so that I may profit from this great mercy, and may say at the
end: I live now not I, but Christ lives in me.
2. In honor of Jesus Way
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The Pauline Cooperator follows his or her particular call within the Pauline Family
and lives it in daily life. Let us take some time to reflect on our call to live Jesus
Master, Way, Truth and Life Statutes 1992.
From a Letter of Fr. James Alberione to the Pauline Family, written from Susa, Italy
on August 22, 1924
I wrote just yesterday, but it is well that I write again today to tell you something that
the Lord made known to me on St. Bernards Day.17 I dont know if you will feel happier
or more alarmedmaybe more alarmed than happy at first, because, like the Theologian
(Fr. Alberione was known as the Theologian) you will think of the greater account we
will have to give to God. I dont know if sometimes the
thought comes to you to compare our House, so little, with
the great tree of the Salesian Family, the robust oak of the
Family of St. Ignatius, the two orders of Dominicans and the
sons of St. Francis, and even more the marvelous
multiplication of the sons of St. Benedict. Well then, this is
very little compared to what the Lord desires, expects, and
asks of us.
I am reading the life of that adventurous missionary, St.
Francis Xavier, and I can tell you that more than half of you
are destined to do the good he didor else three times that
or even more. What marvelous things Jesus has in His
heart! Wonders of love and of grace, of vocations! The Lord
wishes to give us things that I dont believe you can hear
yet, since even Jesus said to the Apostles that he had things
about which he would keep silent until the coming of the
Holy Spirit because: You are not able to bear it. And you cannot bear it because we are
still far away, all of us, from the humility, the abnegation, the charity, the poverty, the
faith that the Lord wants.
Do we have a tiny bit of all this?
Dear friends, read this letter at the Visit to the Blessed Sacrament. Let us realize that
the graces are present; the moment of giving an account awaits us; like it or not, the
world is ours and woe to us if we dont take it. I am almost terrified, and must cling with
both arms to Jesus, who says, It is I; do not fear; I can do all things.
From the Diary of Blessed Timothy Giaccardo
17
Foundation day of the Pauline Family in 1914.
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The Theologian told us: Look up! A great tree, whose summit cannot ever be seenit is
nothing else but our house! It is a big tree, an alberone [A play on the name Alber-i-one.
In Italian alberone is large tree.] All of you are part of the roots. This house in its present
state is nothing but the top of this big tree will grow its branches will extend all over
the world. If only you understood the treasure that you bear within you.
Play: Come and Rejoice from Behold the Lamb
Or Sing together: Earthen Vessels by St. Louis Jesuits
3. In honor of Jesus Life
The spirituality of the Founder cannot be an isolated study. It must be inserted in our
spiritual evolution through prayer, reading, study, conferences and other events
provided by the Pauline Family. We follow in the footsteps of the Founder, the
footpath on the road to the holiness to which God calls us. This is a journey of
growth in union with Jesus Master.
Reflection thought: Recall again the vocational journey of Fr. Alberione. Become
aware of how God makes known little by little his plan for our life.
Note to the Leader: At this time initiate Lectio Divina (see Session 2) with the
following Gospel passages. Start with a prayer to the Holy Spirit. (Reminder: at this
point, the Pauline Cooperators are bringing their Bible to these gatherings.)
John 1: 35-51 The first contact
Luke 5:1-11
A more decisive call
Mark 3:13 -15 The call by name to be Gods intimate friends sent in his name.
Leader: Recall before the Lord the moments in which you had a special interior light and
heard his particular call in your life ask him to renew this call.
Note to the Leader: There are various ways to approach this time of prayer in Lectio Divina.
You may choose different readers for the Gospel passages.

After the first set of readings (Gospels) are completed take time for silent reflection. Everyone may
share a word or a sentence from one of the Gospel passages.
When they have proclaimed the Gospel invite everyone to offer a spontaneous prayer, aloud or silently.
After a few minutes invite everyone to pray Psalm 104 aloud (you may alternate sides). Conclude with
spontaneous petitions.
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Do not fear.
I am with
you.
From here
I will cast
light.
Live in
continual
Young James Alberione receives his call while at prayer
Cathedral of Alba on the night bridging the two centuries
PSALM 104
Praise of God the Creator
Bless the Lord, O my soul!
O Lord, my God, you are great indeed!
You are clothed with majesty and glory,
Robed in light as with a cloak.
You have spread out the heavens like a tent cloth;

You have constructed your palace upon the waters.
You make the clouds your chariot;
You travel on the wings of the wind.
You make the winds your messengers
And flaming fire your minister.
You fixed the earth upon its foundation
Not to be moved forever;
With the ocean, as with a garment, you covered it;
Above the mountains the waters stood.
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At your rebuke they fled;

At the sound of your thunder they took to flight.
As the mountains rose, they went down the valleys
To the place you had fixed for them.
You set a limit they may not pass,
Nor shall they cover the earth again.
You send forth springs into the watercourses
That wind among the mountains,
And give drink to every beast of the field,
Till the wild asses quench their thirst.
Well watered are the trees of the Lord,
The cedars of Lebanon, which he planted;
In them the birds of the air build their nests;
Fir trees are the home of the stork.
The high mountains are for wild goats;
The cliffs are a refuge for badgers.
You made the moon to mark the seasons;
The sun knows the hour of its setting.
How manifold are your works, O Lord!
In wisdom you have wrought them all
The earth is full of your creatures;
The sea also, great and wide,
In which are schools without number
Of living things both small and great.
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They all look to you to give them food in due time.

When you give it to them, they gather it up;
When you open your hand, they are filled with good things.
If you hide your face, they are dismayed;
If you take away their breath, they perish;
When you send forth your Spirit, they are created
And you renew the face of the earth.
Conclude the time of prayer with a song

Suggestion: Bless Our God by the St. Louis Jesuits
4. Break and Social
5. Gathering in the meeting area.
View the PowerPoint on the Pauline Charism:
http://paulinecharismlive.magnify.net/
The preoccupation of Fr. Alberione to define and infuse a "Pauline spirit," to

characterize under one specific "color" all the aspects proper to his charism, all,
aims at affirming the inseparable unity between "holiness and apostolate". Such
a unity does not accept the absence of one of the two constitutive elements, just
as it is not possible to separate love for God from love of neighbor. "Do not look
for many books on spirituality, and neither seek schools of spirituality, inasmuch
as spirituality is only one: to live in Jesus Christ Way, Truth and Life" (Vad 596).
The spirituality of the Pauline communicator in the teaching of Fr. Alberione is
"integral," "total," "well-balanced," "complete". All the accentuation on individual
holiness (spiritualism) or on exasperated emphasis on work (activism) are
against the example and the teaching of Fr. Alberione, which was founded on the
equilibrium of the missionary spirituality of Christ Master Way-Truth-Life.
Pauline Forum on Jesus Master, Rome
122

1. Required Reading
Statues of the Pauline Cooperator18; pgs 23-25.
Catechism of the Catholic Church; Citta del Vaticano: Liberia Editrice Vaticana,
1994; articles 799-800
Agasso, Domenico. Thecla Merlo: Messenger of the Good News. Pauline Books &
Media. Boston: 1993.
Fornasari, Eugenio, S.S.P. Blessed Timothy Giaccardo: An Obedient Prophet.
Alba House. Staten Island, NY: 1991.
Hauser, Richard J., S.J.
In His Spirit: A Guide to Todays Spirituality. Paulist Press
New York, 1982 (Worth finding even as a used book).

Rolfo, Luigi, S.S.P.
James Alberione: Apostle for Our Times. Alba House,
Staten Island, NY: 1987.

Also available online as a PDF: A Marvel of Our Times
http://fsp.paulines.ph/fsp-downloads/marvel-of-our-times.pdf
18
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Optional fun
Alberione Autotuned! God is so Beautiful
Session 4
According to my gospel and the proclamation of Jesus Christ (Rom. 24).
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: The Pauline Charism
The word Charism comes from the Greek word karismata meaning gift of the Holy
Spirit. Those called to journey within the Pauline Charism share their gifts with the
whole people of God. Each Pauline also discovers a particular way they are called to
live the Charism. The founder and those first called to the Charism become our Icons
and models on the path. We are also called to be icons of the Charism for others.
1. Reflecting on the basic elements of the Pauline Charism found in Session 4: How does
the charismatic light of the Pauline Spirituality shine in your life?
a. Jesus as Master, Way, Truth and Life
b. Mary, Mother, Teacher and Queen of Apostles
c. Paul, Apostle and model communicator of Jesus Christ
d. Great love for the Liturgy and Eucharistic life
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e. Devotion to and diffusion of Sacred Scripture
f. A listening and pastoral spirit that permeates everything.
g. Identity as new apostles using new means to share the Gospel of Jesus the
fastest, most efficacious means that technology provides.
h. An ecumenical and inter-religious spirit so that all may be one.
i. Trust in Jesus Master to provide for our holiness and mission. (The spirit of the Pact
or Secret of Success).
2. As Communicators of the Word, Paulines discern their reading, viewing and

listening habits in order to (1) read the signs of the times; (2) know the needs of people
today; (3) reflect on ways to share media that uplifts human and Christian values.
-
How would you apply this to your life?
3. There are many charisms in the Church. The Pauline Charism shares elements from the
great Benedictine, Dominican and Jesuit orders and others. From the Benedictines the
love of Liturgy, from the Dominicans devotion to teaching, from the Jesuits discernment
for holiness and mission. Based on venerated religious traditions the Pauline Charism is
a new gift in the Church.
-
How is Jesus Master calling you to live the

Pauline charismatic elements?
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Let our lives be a clear witness to the Gospel. God is a very

good cameraman and will project the film of our lives. Let us
be radiant stars!
Mother Thecla Merlo, fsp
Time of Preparation
Session 5:
That through the Church the Manifold Wisdom of God

be Made Known. (Eph. 3:10)
The theme for this session: Service to and love for the Church
Points to Cover:
-
The Church: Our base, our roots, in our hearts, our light, our center.
Blessed Timothy Giaccardo, ssp
In communion with the universal and local Church and her Pastors.
Faithful interpreters of the Popes words and direction.
You will need:

-
A Bible
The music for We are One Body and Salvation Belongs to Our God
Suggested music: The Cup of Life by Renewal Music: 1998.
Various encyclicals or recent Papal documents. A basket or container

for the encyclicals. (or access to www.vatican.va
Crossing the Threshold of Hope or Catechism of the Catholic Church

Optional: Paper and crayons or colored pencils
Optional: Video on the Vatican or St. Peter in Rome.
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Opening Invocations:
Jesus Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life; Have mercy on us.
Mary, Queen of the Apostles; Pray for us.
St. Paul the Apostle; Pray for us.
Opening Song/Music Instrumental Song over the Waters
From the Statutes of the Pauline Cooperator
One of the Pauline characteristics is universality: All the good that one can do, all
that which is approved by the Church, all that which gives glory to God and serves
humanitywhatever be the initiative, wherever one goes, it is always in the Pauline
spirit.19 5:H
A Reading from the Letter of Paul to the Colossians Chapter 1 verse 15-29.
Response to the reading:
Jesus, Divine Master, we adore you as the Word Incarnate sent by the Father to instruct us
in life-giving truths. You are uncreated Truth, the only Master. You alone have words of
eternal life. We thank you for having imparted to us the light of reason and the light of
faith, and for having called us to the light of glory. We believe, submitting our whole
mind to you and to the Church. Master, show us the treasures of your wisdom, let us
know the Father, make us your true disciples. Increase our faith so that we may attain to
the eternal vision in heaven.
From the Biography and Writings of Blessed Timothy Giaccardo:
On January 6, 1926, Father Alberione summoned Father Timothy and informed him that
he would be taking a group of Paulines to Rome. I am sending you to Rome because of
your love and also because of your loyalty to the Pope, he told him. Blessed Timothy
reflected: Why a house in Rome? For two reasons: 1) From Alba, our aim was to reach
all of Italy; from Rome, we aim in a special way to reach all nations; and 2) We go to
Rome in order to experience better that the Pauline Family is at the service of the Holy
See, and in order to draw more directly the doctrine, the spirit, the apostolate from the
source: the Papacy.
19
127
Father Timothy was well aware of being in the center of Christianity. In an informal
report that Blessed Timothy sent to the Vicariate of Rome we are able to reflect on this
fact and the strength he drew from it:
Rome always figured in our plans and in our hearts from the very beginning of our
apostolate. To Rome we always look as our base, our roots, our heart, our lightas our
center. I say Rome; I mean, and I say so explicitly, the Roman Church. We absolutely do
not approach this Church as if we were bringing her anything; rather, we approach her as
poor, docile, and humble disciples; we come to her to be grafted more strongly onto
Peter. The pastoral activity of the press involves nothing else but the diffusion of the
faith and tradition of this Holy City, nothing else but the narration for the benefit of the
people, of what is contained in the Scriptures. It was from Rome, of course, that all the
priests sent to open up houses in America departed. Moreover, as far back as 1917, the
nucleus of the first five disciples in this apostolate insisted upon making a special vow of
fidelity to the Roman Pontiff with respect to the apostolate of the press. To all this I must
add that it represents the precise mandate committed to us by our superior (founder):
Your faith must be pure, and that is what you must be proclaiming to the world through
the apostolate of the press. Your devoted and humble, Father Giaccardo.
Envelope addressed by Blessed James Alberione in Alba, Italy

to Blessed Timothy, Rome: January, 1935
Prayer Together: To Jesus Master

Jesus, Divine Master, we adore you living in the Church, your Mystical Body, and our
sole ark of salvation. We thank you for having given to us this infallible and indefectible
Mother, in whom you continue to be for humanity the Way, the Truth and the Life. We
ask you that those who do not believe may come to her inextinguishable light, the erring
return to her, and all peoples be united in faith, in a common hope, in charity. Exalt the
Church, assist the Pope, sanctify the clergy and religious. Lord Jesus, our wish is yours;
that there be one fold under one Shepherd, so that we may all be reunited in the Church
exultant in heaven.
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Song: We are One Body by Dana

2. Examination of Life (in honor of Jesus Way)
3. Group Prayer (Jesus our Life)
To the Leader: Take the encyclicals (or papal documents) and place them in a
basket. If you are using the www.Vatican.va site, print out the first page of recent
documents, etc. After reading the following thought of Father Alberione, ask the
participants to reflect on the issues and trends of our time: social, philosophical,
scientific, scriptural, spiritual, etc. As this time of prayer and reflection proceeds,
participants will choose one or more encyclicals that address the issue they have
identified. The encyclical will be brought up to the front of the group and placed near
the Bible (or near the altar if you are in a chapel). While the participant does this he
or she offers a spontaneous prayer or a prayer taken from words contained in the
document, for the issue it addresses.
From the Writings of Fr. James Alberione
The Church, Teacher of faith, morality and prayer, labors
to form the perfect Christian, the citizen of heaven. This
formation takes place in Christ, who is the Way, the
Truth and the Life. He made Himself a Teacher for our
sake, and in this elevation, Christianization and
divinization of humanity He is the only Master.
Understanding this clearly, the Church, the Mystical
Body of Jesus Christ, labors wisely to communicate and
perfect this education and formation.
Fr. Alberione with Pope Paul VI
Leader: Aloud
Fr. Alberione was fond of saying that the Church has only two enemies: ignorance
and sin. She does not reject discovery, knowledge or the natural and divine sciences,
but rather examines, adopts and uplifts these. As we reflect on the illusions presented
to humanity in our world today: illusions of freedom, of power, of knowledgewe
realize that many are building their house on sand. We acknowledge the confusion
and sins of today and we unite our prayer to the prayer of Jesus for his Church and all
of humanity. As the basket (container) of encyclicals (Papal documents) is passed to
you choose one or two titles that reflect the issue or need you want to pray for. Look
over this document and reflect on how it touches your life. After a time of reflection
each of us will take our document and place it near the Bible while offering a
Pope Paul
129
spontaneous prayer that it will be accepted as the word of Jesus for our time. Take
one document up at a time.
Time of Reflection (Allow at least 10-15 minutes for reflection)
Sample prayer Apostolic Letter Mulieris Dignitatem, On the Dignity and
Vocation of Women, John Paul II.
God, our Father, as a Pauline Cooperator I offer this document to my brothers and
sisters. May there be a Christian understanding of women in todays world. I pray
that I may be a living witness to the truth this document offers. May all women, born
and yet unborn, be respected and loved as daughters of God, sisters of Jesus, and
living temples of the Holy Spirit.
Your Prayer:
Leader: Aloud
The dignity of men and women, their royalty, comes from Christ, who makes the
whole people of God a kingdom and priests (Rev. 1:6). The more difficult the life of
men and women, family life, the life of society, the life of the world the more need
there is for the figure of the Good Shepherd who gives his life for his sheep (Jn.
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10:11). The kingly mission of Jesus Christ is handed on to the Church in a very
special way in the pastoral authority exercised by the bishops under the direction of
the successor of Peter, and by the priests and deacons under the direction of the
bishops. The source of pastoral authorityas well as its justification, its example and
its idealis Christ the Good Shepherd shown us by the Gospel. This is the basis of
the truth that all spiritual authority in the Church must be directed towards developing
and making evident the dignity of man, humanitys royalty which comes from Christ
the Good Shepherd. I know my sheep and my sheep know me (Jn. 10:14) I give
my life for my sheep (Jn. 10:15). (Gaudium et spes, n. 22) cf. Sign of Contradiction,
Karol Wojtyla Pope John Paul II.
Prayer Together: To Mary Mother of the Good Shepherd
Mary, Mother of God, may all generations sing of the great things which God has done
for you. You are the Virgin, the one full of grace, the Mother of the Good Shepherd.
You raised him, loved him, listened to him, followed him, and contemplated him as he
died on the cross for us. Everything comes to us from him and from you: the Church,
the Gospel, the sacraments, eternal life. You are the joy of the Church in heaven, the
hope and refuge of the pilgrim Church. I too want to be yours as Jesus was. I offer
you myself and everything I have. Enlighten me; make me docile and faithful.
Through your intercession hasten the coming together of the one fold under one
shepherd. Inspire the Pope, inspire the teachers of the faith, guide all pastors.
Leader:
Mary, Mother of the Good Shepherd;

Song: Shepherd Me O God by Marty Haugen
Closing Invocations: Jesus Master etc.
4. Group moves from the place of prayer to the meeting area.
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5. Break
6. Options for Gathering* (choose A, B, C, D or E).
A. Video On This Rock or Rome in the Footsteps of Peter and Paul or another
video on the Vatican or Peter in Rome.
Peter & Paul by Fr. Robert Barron
Vatican Necropolis by Catholic TV
B. Using Crossing the Threshold of Hope by Pope John Paul II participants will look
in the index under church and locate Pope John Pauls reflections on Church.
With one copy pass the book from one participant to the next, reading the
following citations and stopping to share on each one:
1. As apostolic in the virtue of Christ, 9
2. Body of Christ analogy, 137
3. Catholicity of, 138
4. Christology of, 44-45
5. Communion, character as a, 138-139
6. Expansion of, 45-46
7. Faith in the Church today, 174-175
8. Mystery of, 136-137
9. Unity of mankind, 78
C. Instead of Crossing the Threshold of Hope use the Catechism of the
Catholic Church or the Document Lumen Gentium (Chapter 1- 3)
1. The Church is Catholic, 830-834
2. The Church is Apostolic, 857 and 862
3. Hierarchical Constitution of the Church, 880 882, 888 892
Be Creative!
D. If the participants want a livelier gathering make copies of the above mentioned
quotes and place them in a basket. Have each person take a quote and change it
into a question. The group may then try to answer the question. You may even
132
split up into two groups and have a contest. The winners can request their
favorite dessert for the next session.
E. Make a web page on the Church! Pass out paper and crayons or colored pencils
to participants. Invite them to use the books suggested above to find a theme for
their web page and then create it on paper. What would you include on this page?
Sample webpage:
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a. Statutes of the Pauline Cooperator20, pgs. 11-13; 23-25
b. Lumen Gentium: Dogmatic Constitution on the Church. November 1964.
Chapters 1, 2, and 3.
a. Gaudium et Spes: Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern
World. December 7, 1965.
b. Wojtyla, Karol.
Sign of Contradiction. Seabury. New York: 1979.
c. Books by John Paul II or Benedict XVI on the Church.

d. Writings and talks of Pope Francis.
In Christ and
in the Church
always.
20
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Session 5
That through Christ the manifold wisdom of God may be made known (Eph. 3:10).
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: Service to and love for the Church
Following point 7, Options for Gathering on the Session 5 worksheet, choose one option
for reflection and study.
Option A
If you have chosen option A (video), write a reflection on what the Church in Rome
represents to the universal Church. This reflection may contain historical circumstances
of the Roman Church as well as the spiritual impact that the Bishop of Rome, the
successor of Peter, has on Roman Catholicism.
Option B or C
If you chose option B or C (finding citations) you may write a paragraph defining the
Church as if you were explaining it to someone who is not familiar with Catholicism.
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Time of Preparation
Session 6:
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me

to bring the Good News. Luke 4:18
The theme for this session: The Vocation and Mission of the Laity
Points to Cover:
-
The vocation and mission of the lay faithful in the Church is rooted in baptism.
Sharing in the life of Jesus the Son of God Priest, Prophet and King
Christian holiness and witness to the mystery of Christ in the heart of the world and in
the heart of the Church
You will need:

- A Bible
- Music: The Final Word Michael Card; To Be Your Bread David Haas
- Pens, markers.
Jesus Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.
Mary, Queen of the Apostles, pray for us.
St. Paul the Apostle, pray for us.
1. Reflection on the Word of God The School of Jesus Master
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A Reading from the Statutes of the Pauline Cooperators21

The Pauline mission offers ample opportunity for the collaboration of persons of
learning: writers, journalists, authors, translators, producers, directors, performing
artists, advertisers, manufacturers, business men and women, employers and
employees at every level; these persons see in the Pauline mission the ideal form in
which to fulfill their specific mission in the service of building up the kingdom of
God (On Evangelization: Evangelii Nuntiandi, 70). Since Christ, sent by the Father, is the
source and origin of the whole apostolate of the Church, the success of the lay
apostolate depends upon the laitys living union with Christ (Decree on the Apostolate of
the Laity; Apostolican Actuositatem, 1).
Song Carmen Christi by Michael Card from The Final Word

Response in song: Chorus
At Jesus name every knee shall bow
In heaven and in all the earth
To the Fathers glory each tongue cry
Jesus is Lord! twice
Prayer Together:
We thank you, Lord, for this time which you have given us to listen to your Word.
We ask you, Lord, to help us listen attentively, for in your Word lies the secret of our life
and identity, the key to the very realities to which you are calling us.
Mary, Mother of the Lord, who pondered in your heart all the sayings and doings of
Jesus, help us to imitate your simplicity, tranquility and peace; take from us all anxiety
and help us to listen attentively so that we may bring forth the fruit of the Gospel. (Cf.
Carlo Martini; Ministers of the Gospel. Crossroads. New York: 1989)
21
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A Reading from the Gospel according to Luke, Chapter 4 versus 14 32
Read this reflection aloud or reflect silently: What is the Lord teaching us in this our
first encounter with his evangelistic methods? He is teaching us that to evangelize does
not mean primarily doing something, getting a certain result but it means partaking of
Christs freedom and breath of vision; it means entering into the richness of this
extraordinary liberty. We should imitate the complete detachment with which he could
preach the liberty of God. The first thing we should understand from this very rich
Gospel passage is this: the Lord who calls us to evangelize does not call us to say or do
something, but above all to be something; to be with him and share his liberty and his
mission. His liberty comes from being the Son, at one with the Father. That is the first
message embodied by Christ: men and women are set free by sharing in the life of Jesus
the Son, the one who proclaims the Gospel of liberation. We should ponder deeply on this
because it lies at the very heart of the call to evangelize. We cannot help, liberate and
calm others unless we ourselves are first of all liberated, calmed and saved by the
presence of Jesus, by our abiding in him as liberator and savior.
(Carlo Martini, Ministers of the Gospel. Crossroads. New York: 1989)
Selections from Christifideles Laici The Vocation and Mission of the Laity in the
Church and in the World
The multitude of persons, men and women are called and send forth by the
Lord to labor in the vineyard. The vineyard is the whole world (cf. Mt 13:38) which is to
be transformed according to the plan of God in view of the final coming of the Kingdom
of God.
The Sacred Scriptures use the image of the vine in various ways. In a particular case,
the vine serves to express the Mystery of the People of God. The lay faithful are seen
not simply as laborers who work in the vineyard, but as themselves being a part of the
vineyard. Jesus says, I am the vine, you are the branches (Jn 15:5).
Who are the lay faithful? Through baptism the lay faithful are made one body with
Christ and are established among the People of God. They are in their own way made
sharers in the priestly, prophetic and kingly office of Christ. They carry out their own
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part in the mission of the whole Christian people with respect to the Church and the
world.
It is no exaggeration to say that the entire existence of the lay faithful has as its
purpose to lead a person to a knowledge of the radical newness of the Christian life that
comes from baptism, the sacrament of faith, so that this knowledge can help that person
live the responsibilities which arise from that vocation received from God. Baptism
regenerates us in the life of the Son of God; unites us to Christ and to his Body, the
Church; anoints us in the Holy Spirit, making us spiritual temples.
The lay faithful are sharers in the priestly mission for which Jesus offered himself on
the cross and continues to be offered in the celebration of the Eucharist for the glory of
God and the salvation of humanity. Incorporated in Jesus Christ, the baptized are united
to him and to his sacrifice in the offering they make of themselves in their daily activities.
Thus as worshippers whose every deed is holy, the lay faithful consecrate the world itself to God.
Through their participation in the prophetic mission of Christ, who proclaimed the
kingdom of his Father by the testimony of his life and the power of his word (Lumen
Gentium), the lay faithful are given the ability and responsibility to accept the Gospel in
faith and to proclaim it in word and deed.
Because the lay faithful belong to Christ, Lord and King of the Universe, they share
in his kingly mission and are called by him to spread that Kingdom in history. They
exercise their kingship as Christians, above all in the spiritual combat in which they seek
to overcome in themselves the kingdom of sin (cf. Rom 6:12), and then to make a gift of
themselves so as to serve, in justice and charity, Jesus who is himself present in all his
brothers and sisters, above all in the very least (cf. Mt 25:40).
The participation of the lay faithful in the threefold mission of Christ as Priest,
Prophet and King finds its source in the anointing of baptism, its further development in
Confirmation and its realization and dynamic substance in the Holy Eucharist.
Individuals are sharers in the threefold mission of Christ in virtue of their being
members of the Church, as St. Peter clearly teaches when he defines the baptized as a
chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, Gods own people (1 Pt 2:9).
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Prayer Together:
Jesus, Divine Master, we adore you as the Beloved of the Father, the sole Way to him.
We thank you because you made yourself our model. You left us examples of the highest
perfection. You have invited us to follow you on earth and in heaven. We contemplate
you in the various periods of your earthly life. We place ourselves in your school and
follow your teachings. Draw us to you so that by following in your footsteps
and losing ourselves for your sake, we may seek only your will. Increase active hope in
us, the desire to be found similar to you at the judgment and to possess you forever in
heaven.
Jesus Master, Teacher and Shepherd, have mercy on us.
God is preparing a new springtime for ChristianityChristian hope sustains
us in committing ourselves fully to the new evangelization and to the
worldwide mission, and leads us to pray as Jesus taught us: Thy Kingdom
come. Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven (Mt 6:10). Mission of the
Redeemer; Pope John Paul II
Note to the Leader:

You may introduce the following song with a reflection on the Gospel proclaimed earlier:
All had their eyes fixed on him (Lk 4).
Song Fix Your Eyes by Twila Paris
2. Examination of Life in Honor of Jesus Way
A Reading from the Writings of Blessed James Alberione
Let us make of ourselves the pen and tongue of God, through Jesus Christ our Master!
The process of becoming holy is a process of becoming Christ-like: Until Christ be
formed in you, Saint Paul urges. We will be holy in the measure in which we live the
life of Jesus or better, in the measure in which Jesus lives in us. This is what Saint
Paul said of himself: I live, but no longer I; it is Christ who lives in me. This occurs
gradually. Jesus Christ is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Spiritual work involves
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imitating the holiness of Jesus who shows us the way by his examples and teachings. It
involves faith in Jesus who is Truth and invites us to think according to the Gospel. It
involves grace, a participation in the life of Jesus through the sacraments and all of the
means of grace. Jesus will nourish us. In the morning place yourself at his feet and say:
You are the Way, I want to walk in your footsteps and imitate your example. You are the
Truth, enlighten me! You are my Life give me grace!
Let us remember that every effort, when associated with Jesus, becomes an element of
individual and social redemption.
Silent Reading and Reflection on the following testimony
This testimony is taken from A Personal Testimony presented to John Paul II at the Synod for the Laity held
in Rocca di Papa, Italy in 1987. Christifideles Laici resulted from this assembly. Issued on December 30,
1988, it seeks to promote a deeper awareness among all the faithful of the gift and responsibility they share,
both as a group and as individuals, in the communion and mission of the Church.
A Personal Testimony: Jean-Loup Dherse at the Synod on the Laity, Rome.

Jean-Loup met the Emmanuel Community while he was vice president of the World Bank.
This lay group led him to rediscover Christ and to give his life in a radical way. The gift
of himself led him to a deeper love for Christ, the Church and the lay community. He was
the secretary of the extraordinary synod on the laity in 1987and a member of the
Pontifical Council Cor Unum for over 10 years.
Most Holy Father
Reverend Bishops,
Brothers and Sisters
The meeting at Rocca di Papa was a genuine experience of Pentecost. In my
group, what truly set free the action of the Holy Spirit was the fact that we began by
sharing our personal life experiences rather than our ideas, suggestions and aims. And
very soon, our lives, all different on the surface, converged towards our personal, and
wholly special relationships with the Blessed Trinity. We saw in us and around us the
wonders that the Lord is working in many corners of the earth. He reveals Himself to
millions of Christians in a way that is often vigorous, and although interior, almost
spectacular. In this way He spurs men and women of all cultures, categories, age groups,
fields of activity towards concrete evangelization, through the witness of their changed
lives and through their activity in forms of association or the most diverse movements.
My personal witness is one among a very great number. I beg of you not to
consider my person or the community in which the Lord sets my path. The important
thing is to see how the Lord mobilizes his people and unceasingly gives us all that the
world needs. It is for us to see it and receive it.
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I am a professional in the fields of economics and industry. I have lived in five

countries, and I have a fair knowledge of about twenty. I am married, with two married
children and some grand-children. For many years I was tepid as a Catholic, not to say
cold. I took the easy way of refusing to believe that the Lord could take an interest in my
insignificant person. This is the case of a great many baptized people, even when they are
more or less practicing.
My life was made up of distinct compartments, managed separately, disjointed
and causing a great discomfort when they clashed. My career had absolute priority; my
wife came far behind, then my children. I was not interested in anything else. I scarcely
prayed at all.
The Lord was waiting patiently for us, as he waits for each one. The ice showed
signs of cracking in monthly meetings among Christians. But my wife and I were really
moved at a Paray-le-Monial, the town of the Heart of Jesus. On Good Friday, during a
prayer in a small group in which we were participating for the first time, we came to
understand that Jesus was asking us to recognize Him as Lord of our lives. After two days
of struggle, at communion on Easter Sunday, I had a deep realization that I had been the
tomb in which I kept Christ dead. But He was opening the door and taking possession of
his domain. I begged Him to do as much for my wife, and he did so a few hours later.
I was Vice-President of the World Bank, and we left next day for Washington,
praising the Lord during the whole journey, asking Him to remove the traps set for us be
a routine lasting more than twenty years. He did so. Our life changed from the one day to
the next. We adopted the practices of the people we had just been meeting, practices that
are not all new. I mention them because they are perfectly adapted to the way of life of a
lay person who is very active, but wants to live always close to the Lord.
In the morning, with our family and passing guests, we offer our day to the Lord,
entrusting to one another the moments of our day for which we want the support of their
prayer. Then daily mass. The period of personal prayer, from 30 to 60 minutes daily, is
the privileged, indispensable time in which the Lord gives us strength for the wear and
tear of our noisy lives. As a minimum of community life, we need an evening together
once a week or a fortnight, a week-end recollection once a month and two five-day
retreats every year. There is nothing extraordinary in this program, which is compatible
with a very active life. But the Lord can in this way gradually change our life and
simplify it (which leaves us the necessary time). He brings personal life, family life and
professional life together in unity. And, although each day is a fresh start, I can see
clearly in my own case, and in the case of many others around me, that two or three years
are enough for the life of a person or a couple to be completely refocused, and for the
active involvement in the evangelization the concrete test for the change to be
complete.
It is personal life with the Lord that is the basis for the whole of life. It is in prayer
in praise and adoration that He mobilizes us and sends us on our mission to our
family, our work place, our friends and acquaintances, and into the world, with the
support of the communities and associations to which we belong. While teaching us to
surrender to his will, He sends each one of us into the whole world, beyond the limits to
which we are accustomed. The essentially joyful discovery of our poverty, through the
Cross, makes us, at last, receptive to his Person. There is no vocation for the Christian,
whether lay or not, other than holiness.
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The time for personal prayer is directly linked to active life. It is there that I try to
let the Lord take control of my thoughts and actions. Jesus is true God and true man. I
know from experience that when I neglect his humanity, I become once more the
Pharisee that I was. When I am less aware that He is true God, my action loses its basic
direction, and I go round and round, building up something purely human, as I used to do.
When I look less at Him, I plunge back into contemplation of myself, which is disastrous,
both practically and spiritually.
This active and practical influence of the Lord in our lives is, at one and the same,
extraordinary and very usual. It makes of us, the laity, active-contemplatives, without the
slightest opposition or division between these two aspects. The choice of not being active
is, effectively, not open to us, and we must above all, not give way to the subtle
temptation of being demobilized, under pretext of living closer to Him.
My family life has, obviously, been completely transformed. The family becomes
a fraternal community where authority is exercised with respect and love, where you ask
one anothers pardon, even between parents and children, and where everyone prays.
Among younger couples, I see their children faced very early with the combat of life, but
taking strength from seeing their parents active, joyful and able to get up again after a
fall. Many are called by the Lord and enter a seminary or religious community which, for
their age, [requires] great spiritual maturity.
My professional life has also undergone deep change. The Lord wants to reign
wherever we are active. He can heal our economic, political and social relations. He
wants us to be competent, responsible, struggling against the temptations of bureaucracy
and against cheating. He wants us to be daring and prudent, serpents and doves, even in
our work. He is ready to help us in a very practical way, when we pray for a moment as
we pick up the telephone or during a difficult meeting. In a city like Paris there are
thousands of people who go about their work with deep faith. That would have seemed to
me a mere dream a few years ago. Today I know that the Lord truly wants to change the
part of the world He entrusts to us, when we leave things in his hands.
This transformation of family and professional life is not possible, in my opinion,
if one remains alone, even in prayer. The support of a community is necessary to go
forward in this way. The sharing of our experiences, intentions, prayers, with brothers and
sisters who are also on their way, is absolutely necessary in order to overcome the
difficult moments when we are in danger of being pulled under by our ever present
weakness.
At Rocca di Papa we saw the incredible variety of movements and associations
that the Lord places at our disposal. In my heart I had the strong words of our little
Thrse, who said that the Lord loved each one of the flowers of the field and that He
also loved their incredible variety. That can well be applied to each one of us, but also to
all the movements that are flowering or flowering again.
I have underlined that mutual fraternal support actually requires little of our time:
an evening of sharing once a week or fortnight, the monthly week-end and the two annual
retreats. The evening of sharing is essential. Rather than a mere exchange of ideas or an
occasion for congenial fellowship, it should be a sharing of the Word of God, of what this
Word has changed in our lives since the last evening together; a sharing of our successes
and our failures in practical evangelization, on the spot as it were. We must pray for one
another because of the fatigue and the harshness of the spiritual combat, around us and
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within us. It is in these small groups that we witness the liberations worked by the Lord:
the depressed find healing, the fearful take courage, lives are changed. We see it, and we
thank the Lord in praise.
But the fruit of this eruption into our lives is strongest in the way in which He
sends us out on a mission. This is nothing new, but it seems that there is a new strength in
the laity, and its potential is extraordinary, unlimited, if we judge be what can be done by
groups of Christians with from 500 to 2000 members. I know several such groups. These
missionary activities are carried out by lay people and priests together, in prayer and the
practice of the Sacraments. For this, the authorization of the Bishop is necessary. These
manifold activities are mutually supportive; each one can find his/her own activity
without losing sight of the overall effort carried out by people whom one knows
personally. This gives a vision of the Lords action that is at once very concrete, and is
therefore extremely encouraging. I can quote the activities of which I have personal
knowledge:
- complete animation of a parish, with its priests, together with all the parish
movements and activities.
- A new and fruitful experience (Parish of the Trinity, Paris);
- The vibrancy of mass gatherings in which thousands of lay people (and also
members of the clergy) find or find again a new life;
- Street evangelization, where fear is soon dispelled. The appetite for the name
of the Lord is ready to the touch, and you see beautiful things happening;
- Aid for the Third World, through missions of 2 to 10 persons who, while
bringing the Lord, bring at the same time social and economic development,
for there is here no incompatibility;
- Cycles of evangelization for couples;
- A school of evangelization where young people, aged 20 to 22, remain for a
year; they carry out missions of 10 days (schools, parishes), on request;
- A movement of young people, witnessing and evangelizing in schools and
high schools, helping the chaplains and taking charge of missions;
- A service that produces and circulates courses in basic theological and
spiritual formation of adult catechesis;
- A telephone service of prayer (SOS Prayer) that is anonymous company for
our brothers and sisters who lay bare their hearts and their sufferings; videocassettes are produced for wide circulation, and soon there will be television
programs;
- A special group for the evangelization of the world of work;
- All the usual service activities in the local parish.
All of this includes many set-backs and disappointments, and that helps us to
remain modest. But it does seem that the Lord is mobilizing his children in all directions
at once and, when there are difficulties, He gives joy that has no equal.
The vocation of the laity is sanctity, and their mission is evangelization. We need
all the infinite riches of the Lord. When He comes to us, He is not alone. He gives us
Mary, his Mother, our model as lay people, and all the saints, who work so actively
together with us, here and now, wherever we may be.
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Heaven and Earth are really separate only through our blindness. In spite of our
sins, the Lord truly wants to dwell among us. He is the God-among-us who unceasingly
gives us all that we need, and still more.
Translated from French; Reprinted with permission
The Pauline Seal

Glory to God; Peace to Humanity
After silent reflection (10-15 min.) play title song from the CD To Be Your Bread by
David Haas. Sing the refrain together:
Refrain: (by David Haas)
To be your bread now, be your wine now,
Lord, come and change us to be a sign of your love.
Blest and broken, poured and flowing,
gift that you gave us, to be your body once again. GIA Permission.
3. Group Prayer (Jesus Our Life)
Christian Prayer
Produce copies of the current week for the meeting attendants. http://divineoffice.org/
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Break 15 minutes
The first Pauline Cooperator
4. Gather in the Meeting Area
Continue the meeting by sharing on the Personal Witness sheet that follows.
Personal Witness
Always be ready to give witness to the faith that

is in you. 2 Timothy 1:8
Choose to share and apply a value or values to the situation that you were in.
In what way do you believe you witnessed to Jesus or not?
If so where did you receive the strength to live the Christian value?
If not how would you like to witness on a new occasion?
This sharing will assist us in realizing that evangelization is sharing in the life of Jesus in all
circumstances of our own lives (refer to the reflection by Carlo Martini).
Values of witness:
Compassion Mercy Justice Equality Service Love
Honesty Faithfulness to Others Forgiveness Loving my enemies
Generosity Respect Christian Joy Peace Patience
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1. Required Reading: (also found on the Internet)

a. Catechism of the Catholic Church # 873, 874, 875, 901-903; 904, 908-913
http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/what-webelieve/catechism/catechism-of-the-catholic-church/epub/index.cfm
b. Pope John Paul II. The Lay Members of Christs Faithful People.
Pauline Books & Media. Boston: MA 1988. Especially numbers 32-44
a. Martini, Carlo. Ministers of the Gospel. Crossroad: New York 1989.
b. Vatican II Documents. Decree on the Apostolate of the Lay People.
Pauline Books & Media. Boston: MA 1965
c. Evangelii Guadium On the Joy of the Gospel Pope Francis
United States Bishops Conference Site:

http://www.usccb.org/about/laity-marriage-family-life-and-youth/laity/
Video:
http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/how-we-teach/evangelization/
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Session 6
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me because he has anointed me to bring the good news
(Luke 4:18).
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: The Mission of the Laity
Four Key Themes from Pope Paul VI in his Apostolic Exhortation On Evangelization, as
outlined by Rev. Anthony J. Ciorra, PHD and Rev. James Keating, PHD in The Need for
Public Catholics Pastoral Life, Society of St. Paul, December 2000.
1. Baptism into the Catholic faith is an act of grace that not only identifies the
believer as one chosen by God, but, due to this choosing, claims the person for
public witnessing in the name of Christ.22
2. The goal of witnessing is to convert both the personal and collective consciences
of people.23 This witness is to be manifested silently through virtuous behavior
and completed in gaining the ability to explain and justify ones Catholic
identity before the secular world.24 This witness to the world is not to be confused
with political or ideological activities, as it always retains a specific religious
finality.25
3. The most appropriate field for the laity to witness to Catholic life is within the
secular world, not by further establishing and developing the ecclesial
community.26 The laity are initiated in the Church in order to be Church in the
world. This witness is to be accomplished without denigrating or crushing what is
secular in the name of the sacred.27 We are in fact to cherish all that is good and
true in the culture, as these areas prepare the away for the worlds full acceptance
of the Gospel.
4. Being public Catholics undergirded and promoted by the Holy Spirit, because it is
by the power of the Holy Spirit in the depths of consciences [that] causes the
word of salvation to be accepted and understood.28
In other words, a public Catholic can never be fully faithful to his or her identity if such
22
Paul VI, Evangelii nuntiandi, Apostolic Exhortation 13,14

Ibid 18,41, 46
24
Ibid 22, 28, 30, 44
25
Ibid 32,36
23
26
Ibid 70
Ibid 55, 20
28
Ibid 75
27
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an identity is reduced to political or ideological motives and formation. The proper

source of conscience formation for the Catholic is the social teachings of the Church not
the political party platforms (US Bishops Statement on Political Responsibility, Origins
25, Nov. 16, 1995). The Catholic conscience is primarily but not exclusively formed by
attending to social doctrine. The temptation is to align oneself with political parties who
agree with ecclesial teaching; but we must never forget that any partys identity resides in
secular philosophies and popular opinion polls and not in the depths of a religious
identity.
Reflect on the personal testimony of Jean-Loup Dherse and the above excerpt from
Pastoral Life. Use the Personal Witness sheet in Session 6 to give your personal witness.
Following the guidelines on the Personal Witness sheet tell your story to a friend, another
Pauline Cooperator (your contact cooperator) or the Pauline Brother or Sister you have
been contacting. This may be done in person, through a phone call or through e-mail.
1. Did this story reveal ways that you are always ready to witness to your faith?
2. If this story did not seem to be a witness of faith what if the same situation repeated
itself. How would you use the occasion to witness?
3. What Catholic/Christian values were witnessed to?
4. How do you think you might witness to Catholic and Christian values in a specific way
as a Pauline Cooperator?
5. Has your study of the Pauline charism given you new insight into Catholic values?
What values? In what way?
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Time of Preparation
Session 7:
That Christ May Live in Me ( 2 Cor. 12:9)

The Theme for this session: Jesus, Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life
Points to Cover:
-
Conformation with the Master.
Come to me all of you - The call of the Master.
Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations - Our response.
You will need:

-
A Bible (participants are encouraged to bring theirs)
Music suggested: Scandalon by Michael Card for the song Jesus Let Us Come to
Know You; The Cup of Life Renewal Music; Behold the Lamb Renewal Music
DVD provided from the National Office: Jesus Master in Christian Art or the music
Love Changes Everything by Andrew Lloyd Weber (from Michael Crawford Sings
Andrew Lloyd Weber)
Holy cards of Jesus Divine Master for each participant.
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To live the devotion to Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life, is what
constitutes the spirit, the soul of the Institute. This devotion is not only
prayer, but embraces all that one does in daily life. It is not a beautiful
expression; it is not a piece of advice: It is the substance of the
Congregation; it is to be or not to be Paulines.
Fr. James Alberione, 1957
Jesus Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life Have mercy on us
Pray for us.
St. Paul the Apostle, Our Patron,
Pray for us.
Play the song Jesus We Enthrone You from Behold the Lamb, Renewal Music #7
Leader aloud: Conformation to Jesus our Master is an aspect of the Pauline spirituality
that our founder most insisted upon. Conformation, he explained, involves our taking on
the form of Christ, allowing the Master to be formed in the Pauline believer until
Christ be formed in you (Gal 4:9). This is the road traced out for all Paulines:
-
Always to be disciples of the Master

Always to live the Master
Always to reveal the Master
Prayer together:
Master, your life traces out the way for me. Your doctrine confirms and enlightens my
steps. Your grace sustains and supports me on my journey toward heaven. You are the
perfect Master who gives the example, who teaches, and who comforts the disciple that
follows you.
1. Jesus Truth
Leader: Choose various participants to proclaim the scripture readings that follow. You
will need five readers.
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Invitation: Listen to the Word, be converted to the Word, share the Word, celebrate the
Word of God.
-
A Reading from the Gospel according to Matthew Chapter 11 verses 25 to 30
A Reading from the Gospel according to John Chapter 14 verses 1 to 7
A Reading from Pauls letter to the Colossians Chapter 1 verses 15 to 23
A Reading from Pauls Letter to the Colossians Chapter 2 verses 9 to 15
A Reading from the Letter to the Hebrews Chapter 1 verses 1 to 4
Prayer together:
Jesus Master,
I want to bend in adoration to you.
I am a miracle of God! Your infinite mercy made a new being of me!
I am one with you Christ: one with your intentions, your interests.
Your words are mine. My life is yours.
I accomplish your work, or better, it is you who accomplish it through me.
I draw all strength from you.
You have conquered me as you conquered Saul. I surrender all to you.
I trust you, my Shepherd and Master!
(Adapted from a private prayer of Fr. James Alberione)
Song: Jesus We Enthrone You from Behold the Lamb, Renewal Music - song # 7
Join in at the chorus:
And as we worship build a throne (3X)
Come Lord Jesus and take your place!
Read Aloud:
Reflection from the Special Assembly of Bishops of Oceania (1997)
When Jesus refers to himself as the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6), his words
are an invitation to his followers indeed to all who hear these wordsto accept him as
the way of salvation, the all satisfying truth, and the life to be lived (Paul VI).
This act of faith is not something that an individual does in isolation from others.
Because accepting Jesus into ones life as the Way, the Truth and the Life is always a
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personal choice, it is done in the context of the believing community through the
celebration of the sacrament of baptism. The ecclesial (church) community as well as the
individual welcomes in faith the saving presence of Jesus. In her members the Church
follows the Way, receives and teaches the Truth and lives the Life, offered to all by God,
the Father.
Are these not the same gifts presented in the Holy Spirit, the all-encompassing and
inexhaustible Gift of God? The acceptance of Jesus as the Way, the Truth and the Life is
not meant only to fulfill the intense longing of the heart of his followers and to be a basis
for unity; it is also meant to be lived in such a manner that the saving presence of Jesus is
offered to others, who do not as yet, or no longer, believe in him. The way of Jesus has to
be walked, his truth has to be received and taught, his life has to be lived in such a way
that believers become witnesses of Jesus to the world (John 15: 27).
This faith answers Pilates question, What is truth? It is the only satisfying response
to Pauls question on the road to Damascus Who are you, Lord? (Acts 9:5) The reply
to the question of truth is personal, not simply because a person makes the
commitmentbut because it involves the Person of Jesus Christ Everyone who is
of the truth hears my voice (John 18:37). Christs voice addressed Paul directly, person
to person, inviting him to change his life by re-directing his whole existence: I am
Jesus whom you are persecuting (Acts 9:5). The truth, then, is none other than Jesus
Christ himself: I am the way, the truth and the life (John 14:6).
3. Jesus Way
Personal Reflection (in silent reflection and prayer)
Is the Lord asking you for some concrete step to a closer following of him?
How is Jesus coming to you? What do you have to do to come to him?
In what way is love for Christ the Truth alive in your life?
In what ways have you experienced his fidelity?
What is the role of contemplation in your life?
Reflect on your life. Does it bear the stamp of Jesus Way? How might you become
more like Jesus?
Behold I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door I
will enter the house and dine with him and he with me (Revelation 3:20). What areas of
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your life are still closed to the Master? Will you allow him to enter and share the meal of
intimacy with him?
Icon of Jesus
Master above
the altar in the
Cathedral of
Pisa, Italy
3. Jesus Life
Song: Jesus Let Us Come to Know You, from Scandalon by Michael Card. Alternate
song #7 - Im Forever Grateful on the CD
Leader aloud: Let us pray together a part of the Chaplet to the Divine Master. As we
pray let us ponder the mysteries of Jesus life and how they change ours. We will pause
after each prayer-line and pray silently with the reflection in italics:
Living Christ
Jesus Divine Master,
I adore you as the beloved of the Father, the sole way to him.
You were baptized by John and proclaimed by the Father as his beloved Son in whom he
is well pleased. Remind me that I am Gods beloved.
I thank you because you made yourself my model. You left me examples of the highest
perfection. Jesus, the example I want to live is
You have invited me to follow you on earth and in heaven.
Relieve me of the bondage of myself; take away the difficulties so that I may be a witness
of your love and way of life. These difficulties are.
I contemplate you in the various periods of your earthly life.
I loving recall the various stages of Jesus earthly life.
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I docilely place myself in your school and follow your teachings.

Imagine yourself as part of the crowd following Jesus the Master and listening to his
words. I express gratitude for.
Draw me to you so that by following in your footsteps I may seek only your will.
God I trust in your plan for me.
Increase active hope in me and the desire to be found similar to you at the judgment and
to possess you forever in heaven. Amen.
Blessed James Alberione, S.S.P., adapted
Leader aloud:
The Divine Master wants above all to be the Good Shepherd, the good Savior, the great
benefactor of humanity, he who cured every spiritual and temporal ill. (Fr. Alberione)
When Jesus says, Only one is your Master, he means that he is not only a teacher, but a
true and singular Master, the perfect Master who precedes us by his example: I have
given you the example. He commissioned the apostles, their successors and us: preach,
teach, and give the life of grace, which prepares you for the life of glory. Let us express
our gratitude for this call with our closing prayer/song:
Song: Im Forever Grateful from Cup of Life by Renewal Music # 6

Closing Invocations:
Jesus Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life;
Have mercy on us.
Mary, Mother of the Good Shepherd;
Pray for us.
St. Paul the Apostle, our Patron;
Pray for us.
From all sin;
Deliver us O, Lord.

5. Social (about 15 minutes)
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6. Faith Sharing
Option I:
Use the song Love Changes Everything by Andrew Lloyd Weber
-
Listen to the song and reflect on the words in the light of our relation with Jesus
Master
Invite the participants to share on how this song may reflect our devotion to Jesus
Master Way, Truth and Life. Ask them to be specific.
Examples:
+ Love will never let you be the same reminds me that I grow spiritually as I
surrender to Gods Provident care.
+ All the rules we make are broken makes me think of the apostles as they were
called. Matthew was a tax collector who would not have hung out with
fishermen. Peter probably avoided tax collectors. Yet they both followed Jesus
breaking the rules they made for their life and imitating him instead. Paul talks
about love being above the law.
+ Words mean more. Love will turn your world around Brings you glory,
brings you shame. Nothing in the world will ever be the same. Suddenly all
our wisdom disappears. All the rules we make are broken. Live or perish in
its flame.
Option II:
View the video on Jesus Master in Early Christian Art
After viewing the video share on Jesus Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life, as
presented in the Pauline charism. What are the symbols in the icon that are also found in
our Pauline icon? (ex: scroll, sheep, teaching, open bible).
Leader: Before or after either exercise give everyone a card of Jesus Master to facilitate
the sharing time with a concrete image of Jesus.
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a. Pope Leo XIII. On Jesus Christ Our Redeemer. Pauline Books & Media.
Boston: MA. 1980. (Encyclical that inspired Fr. Alberione in 1900)
b. Pope John Paul II. Mission of the Redeemer Pauline Books & Media
Boston: MA 1990.
Especially chapters 1, 2, 5 and 8.
a. Catechism of the Catholic Church. Citta del Vaticano.
Liberia Editrice Vaticana, 1994; articles 422 451; 519 521; 606 618.
b. Pope John Paul II. The Redeemer of Man. Pauline Books & Media.
Boston: MA 1979.
c. Any Pauline editions that become available on Jesus Divine Master and
Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life.
d. At the Center is Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life. From the Divine Master
Seminar http://www.stpauls.it/studi/maestro/inglese/dasilva/ingdas01.htm
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Session 7
That Christ May Live in Me (2 Cor. 12:9).
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: Jesus Master and Shepherd, Way,
Truth and Life
___________________________________________________________________
1. If you chose option I Listening and reflecting on the song Love Changes
Everything, how would you apply it to your relationship with Jesus Master?
1A. If you watched the video on Jesus Master in Ancient Christ Art, what impressed you
the most?
2. While you are reading the suggested documents of Leo XIII and John Paul II or after
you have read them, make a brief outline of the elements that seem to be strongly
reflected in the Pauline devotion to Jesus as Master, Way, Truth and Life and other
essential Pauline charismatic elements.
3. You will note how Blessed James Alberione drew much doctrine and devotion from
Leo XIIIs exhortation at the dawning of the 20th century. John Paul IIs thoughts reflect
this same presentation of Jesus as Master, Teacher and Shepherd. What does this mean
for Paulines in the 21st Century at the dawn of the third Christian millennium?
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Time of Preparation
Session 8:
Mary Queen of the First Apostles

and the Apostles of All Times
The Theme for this session: Mary, Our Mother, Teacher and Queen
Points to Cover:
-
Mary, Daughter of the Father, Spouse of the Spirit, Mother of the Divine Son
Mary, Apostle of Jesus Christ
Mary, Mother of the Church
You will need:

-
A Bible
Suggested music: Handmaiden of the Lord by the Daughters of St. Paul; The Gift of
Love by Dana or another sung Magnificat; The Final Word by Michael Card the
song To the Mystery
Jesus Master Way, Truth, and Life, have mercy on us.
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St. Paul, the Apostle, pray for us.
Prayer together:
Receive me, O Mary Mother, Teacher and Queen, among those whom you love,
nourish, sanctify and guide in the school of Jesus Christ, the Divine Master. You read in
the mind of God the children whom he calls, and for them you have special prayers,
grace, light and consolations.
My Master Jesus Christ entrusted himself wholly to you from the Incarnation to the
Ascension. For me this is doctrine, example and an ineffable gift.
I too place myself entirely into your hands. Obtain for me the grace to know, imitate
and love ever more the Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life.
I.
Jesus Truth [Mary Teacher]
A Reading from the Gospel of Luke (see below)

Play background instrumental music Marian instrumental is suggested.
To the Leader: Read the Gospel of Luke together.

Assign parts of the Gospel of Luke chapter 1 verse 26 46 [Narrator, Mary, Angel
Gabriel, and Elizabeth]. End with instrumental music and take time for reflection. Verses
46-55 will be prayed together [the Magnificat]. .
Song: To the Mystery by Michael Card from The Final Word

A Reading from Fr. James Alberione
Mary always comes with both spiritual and material blessings. In Zechariah and
Elizabeths house she served as the humble handmaid of the Lord for three months.
And so Jesus reigned in that family with his grace.
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At the beginning of Jesus public ministry, Mary entered the newlyweds house at Cana
and obtained the transformation of water into wine. It was there that the first disciples
believed in Jesus, who with this miracle had shown himself to be Messiah and God.
A reading from the Gospel of John Chapter 2 verses 1-12
Pray together:
Come, O Mary. Come and dwell in our home which we offer and consecrate to you.
We your children receive you with joy; we welcome you with the same affection
with which John brought you into his home after the death of your Jesus.
Obtain for each one of us the spiritual graces that we need, just as you brought them
to Zechariah and Elizabeths home. Obtain for us material graces just as you obtained
the transformation of water into wine for the newlyweds at Cana.
Keep sin far from us, always. Be for us light, joy and sanctification, as you were in
the family of Nazareth. Be here, for us, Mother, Teacher and Queen. Increase in us faith,
hope and love. Deepen our spirit of prayer.
May Jesus Way, Truth and Life, always dwell here! Inspire people to follow their
call. May all members of this family be reunited in heaven.
- Fr. James Alberione, 1949
A Reading from Father James Alberione
The Queen of Apostles, Mary, was the mother of the Apostle of the Divine Father, the
Divine Word. In the birth of Jesus she became mother, teacher and queen of every
apostolate. She was proclaimed mother, teacher and queen at the foot of the cross. She
showed herself to be mother, teacher and queen especially with the apostles at Pentecost.
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A Reading from the Conferences of Mother Thecla Merlo

Let us stay close to Mary. Let us permit ourselves to be helped by her; let us ask her to
carry us in her arms, like a mother carries a child. The more we are little and unassuming
the more we can stay in her arms. Do as the Blessed Mother would do. Would she say
this? Would she think this? What would Our Lady do in our place? If the way of holiness
seems difficult, when we unite ourselves to Mary it becomes easy.
Prayer together:
O Queen of Apostles, pray for us!
Pray for us your children
who entrust ourselves entirely to you.
Pray for us so that we may never offend Jesus,
but may love him with all our hearts.
Beneath your mantle, O Mother,
we your children take refuge daily.
Make us all yours.
All that we have is yours.
You are our great teacher.
Teach us, guide us, sustain us,
defend us from every danger
as you have done until now.
And after this our exile
show us Jesus,
the blessed fruit of your womb.
Mother Thecla Merlo
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2. Jesus Way [Mary Mother]

Silent reflection and renewal of life:
The following letter may be used for your personal reflection
A Letter from Fr. James Alberione, January 1950
Dearest,
In the presence of our Mother,
Teacher, and Queen, it comes
spontaneous to repeat: And after
this our exile, show to us the
blessed fruit of your womb,
Jesus. O clement, O loving, O
sweet Virgin Mary. In an
intense light, Mary fulfills her
mission: to give Jesus to the
Father and to humanity.
She gave Jesus Christ to the
earth: in her God glorified
himself by becoming man and
the Savior of all people; by
making himself Savior, through
Marys yes. In our picture
Painting of Mary, Queen of
Apostles in the Basilica/Temple
of the Queen of Apostles, Rome
she sums up the idea of the Eucharist made with her virginal blood. She offers her
blessed fruit, Jesus. She holds him out, presenting him with most sweet love as a host
living, holy and pleasing to God.
163
She also gave him to the Father, who through Jesus Christ receives a new, infinite glory.
She showed Jesus to the shepherds, the first to be called to the crib of the savior,
representing the humble people, heirs of the divine promises, who welcomed the
kingdom of God with childlike simplicity.
She showed Jesus to St. Joseph, her faithful spouse and his foster-father. She showed
Jesus to St. John the Baptist who heralded his coming.
She showed Jesus to the gentiles, represented by the Magi, who had come to the crib at
Bethlehem, first fruits of the peoples gathered from all lands to Jesus.
She presented Jesus in the Temple, offering him as a child, a worthy victim and eternal
Priest, according to his vocation: Your saving deed displayed for all the peoples to
see: a revealing light to the Gentiles (Luke 2:30-31). She showed Jesus to the
Egyptians to whom she brought him as a refugee. She showed him at Nazareth, a model
of family life. She led him to the Temple and taught him the wisdom of the Father. The
teachers in the temple were amazed at his intelligence and answers (Luke 2:46-47).
She showed him to the apostles at the wedding feast of Cana where, making his hour of
manifestation strike, asked him to work his first miracle. Thus did he reveal his glory
and his disciples believed in him (Jn. 2:11). She showed him crucified, the salvation of
the whole world, on Calvary, where hell trembled because it was defeated. Heaven was
opened justice and peace kissed (Cf. Ps. 85). She showed him the Father, reconsigning him to heaven on Ascension day, his body resplendent with glorious wounds
an open side from which came forth two rays of love, for God and souls. Through her
prayers she invoked the Spirit upon the apostles and the infant church. She presents him
now through the ages to Jesus through Mary in all ages. Mary always gives Jesus.
She is like a branch that always bears him and offers him to humanity: glorious,
Eucharistic, Way, Truth and Life. She is an apostle of Jesus Christ, not only of words but
also of mind, will and heart. Mary is apostle and Queen of all apostles.
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3. Jesus Life [Mary Queen]

Vespers of the Queen of the Apostles Christian PrayerLiturgy of the Hours
(The Feast Day is the Saturday after the Ascension.).
God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit,
As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Hymn: Suggestion Soul of Mary (Handmaiden of the Lord)

Soul of Mary, sanctify me.
Heart of Mary, burn in my own.
Your hands, O Mary, be my support.
Your feet, O Mary, direct all my steps.
Immaculate eyes of Mary,
Turn your gaze on me.
Your lips, O Mary, speak for me.
Your sorrows, Mary, strengthen me.
O Mother Mary, hear me.
Mary, draw me to your heart.
Thus I may come to Jesus heart:
There with the saints to praise you
For life eternal. Amen.
Stand
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Ant. 1 Hail, Mary, full of grace! The Lord has exalted you and crowned you Queen.
Psalm 122 (alternate sides)
I rejoiced when I heard them say:
Let us go to Gods house.
And now our feet are standing
within your gates Jerusalem.
Jerusalem is built as a city

strongly compact.
It is there that the tribes go up,
the tribes of the Lord.
For Israels law it is,

there to praise the Lords name.
There were set the thrones of judgment
of the house of David.
For the peace of Jerusalem pray:

Peace be to your homes!
May peace reign in your walls,
in your palaces, peace!
For love of my brethren and friends

I say: Peace upon you!
For love of the house of the Lord
I will ask for your good.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
-
Sit
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Ant. 1 Hail, Mary, full of grace! The Lord has exalted you and crowned you Queen.
Ant. 2 Our Mother, Teacher and Queen, pray to Jesus, the fruit of your womb to send
laborers into his vineyard.
Psalm 127 (alternate sides)
If the Lord does not build the house,
in vain do its builders labor;
if the Lord does not watch over the city,
in vain does the watchman keep vigil.
In vain is your earlier rising,

your going later to rest,
you who toil for the bread you eat;
when he pours gifts on his beloved while they slumber.
Truly children are a gift from the Lord,

a blessing, the fruit of the womb.
Indeed the sons of youth
are like arrows in the hands of a warrior.
O the happiness of the man

who has filled his quiver with these arrows!
He will have no cause for shame
when he disputes his foes in the gateways.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and the Holy Spirit,
- As it was in the beginning, is now, and will be forever. Amen.
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Ant. 2 Our Mother, Teacher and Queen, pray to Jesus, the fruit of your womb
to send laborers into his vineyard.
Ant. 3 We find refuge under your protection, O, Mother, Teacher and Queen.
Canticle (Eph. 1:3-10) (alternate sides)

Praised be the God and Father
of our Lord Jesus Christ,
who has bestowed on us in Christ
every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
God chose us in him

before the world began
to be holy
and blameless in his sight.
He predestined us
to be his adopted sons and daughters through Jesus Christ.
Such was his will and pleasure,
that all might praise the glorious favor
he has bestowed on us in his beloved.
In him and through his blood,

we have been redeemed,
and our sins forgiven,
so immeasurable generous
is Gods favor to us.
God has given us the wisdom

to understand fully the mystery,
the plan he was pleased
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to decree in Christ.
A plan to be carried out

in Christ, in the fullness of time,
to bring all things into one in him,
in the heavens and on earth.
Glory to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit,
-
Ant. 3 We find refuge under your protection, O, Mother, Teacher and Queen.
Reading (Gal. 4:4-5)

But when the designated time had come, God sent forth his Son born of a woman, born
under the law, to deliver from the law those who were subjected to it, so that we might
receive our status as adopted sons.
Responsory
Hail, O Mother of the Church, our Teacher and Queen.
-
Blessed be the Lord who has exalted you over the angels and saints.
-
Our Teacher and Queen.
-
Antiphon for the Magnificat:

Let us sing to God our Savior in remembrance of Mary
Queen of the Apostles who intercedes for us. Amen
Stand
169
Song: My Soul Doth Magnify the Lord by Dana or another Magnificat

Refrain:
My soul doth magnify the Lord; my soul doth magnify the Lord and my spirit has
rejoiced in God my Savior, for he that is mighty has done great things and holy is his
Name.
Intercessions
United in prayer, let us praise and thank God, who wished that Mary be loved and
celebrated by all generations. Let us say with confidence:
-
May Mary, our Mother, Teacher and Queen, intercede for us.
You made Mary the Mother of Mercy,

-
May all who are faced with trials feel her motherly love.
You wished Mary to be the mother of the family in the home of Jesus and Joseph,
-
May the spirit of the house of Nazareth grow in every community.
You gave Mary strength at the foot of the cross and filled her with joy at the resurrection
of your Son,
-
Lighten the hardships of those who are burdened and deepen their sense of hope.
In Mary, who was open to your word and a faithful servant of your will, you showed to us
the model and image of your holy Church,
-
Through her intercession make us true disciples of Christ, your Son.
You crowned Mary, queen of heaven,

-
May our departed brothers and sisters rejoice in your kingdom with the saints,
forever.
If there is time spontaneous petitions may be offered.

Our Father
Prayer together:
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O God, who sent the Holy Spirit upon the apostles as they were united in prayer with
Mary, the Mother of Jesus, grant us, through her intercession, always to serve your
majesty faithfully, and to spread the glory of your name by word and example. Through
Christ our Lord, Amen.
May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life.
-
Amen.
Let us bless the Lord,

- And give him thanks!
3.
Pauline Liturgical Texts
Break fifteen minutes
4. Gather in meeting place for faith sharing on the Marian Litany

a. Have a representation of Mary, Queen of Apostles in the center of the group. Light a
candle. Pray the first part of the Litany together and then pause to reflect on the
Marian titles.
b. After a time of reflection on the titles of Mary found in the Litany of Loreto or
another Marian Litany, each person chooses a title of Mary that has meaning for their
life. One at a time each person expresses the reason for his/her choice.
Ex: Mary, Queen of Peace. I often reflect on the peaceful Mary while I am working and
the day is hectic. I think of her as she contemplates the mystery of her Son without
understanding it completely. Yet she trusts in God and her faith gave her great peace.
c. After the person reflects on the title or titles (up to three) of Mary they pray the title
aloud and everyone responds pray for us. If you wish you may have candles
available for each person to light and place before a representation of Mary, Queen of
Apostles after they share their reflection.
d. Pray the last part of the Litany together and conclude with a Marian prayer or song.
Litany of the Blessed Virgin Mary The Litany of Loreto was originally approved in
1587 by Pope Sixtus V.
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Lord, have mercy.
Virgin most merciful,
Christ, have mercy.
Virgin most faithful,
Christ, hear us.
Mirror of justice,
Christ, graciously hear us.
Seat of wisdom,
God, the Father of heaven,
Cause of our joy,
have mercy on us.
Spiritual vessel,
God the Son, Redeemer of the world,
Vessel of honor,
have mercy on us.
Singular vessel of devotion,
God the Holy Spirit,
Mystical rose,
have mercy on us.
Tower of David,
Holy Trinity, one God.
Tower of ivory,
have mercy on us.
House of gold,
Ark of the covenant,
Holy Mary, pray for us.*
Gate of heaven,
Holy Mother of God,
Morning star,
Holy Virgin of virgins,
Health of the sick,
Mother of Christ,
Refuge of sinners,
Mother of the Church,
Comforter of the afflicted,
Mother of divine grace,
Help of Christians,
Mother most pure,
Queen of angels,
Mother most chaste,
Queen of partiarchs,
Mother inviolate,
Queen of prophets,
Mother undefiled,
Queen of apostles,
Mother most amiable,
Queen of martyrs,
Mother most admirable,
Queen of confessors,
Mother of good counsel,
Queen of virgins,
Mother of our Creator,
Queen of all saints,
Mother of our Savior,
Queen conceived without original sin,
Virgin most prudent,
Queen assumed into heaven,
Virgin most venerable,
Queen of the most holy Rosary,
Virgin most renowned,
Queen of families
Virgin most powerful,
Queen of peace.
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* Pray for us is repeated after each invocation.

Lamb of God, You take away
sins of the world;
spare us, O Lord.
Through the same Christ our Lord.

R. Amen.
Lamb of God, You take away
From Christmas to the Purification

O God,
the sins of the world;
by the fruitful virginity of Blessed Mary,
graciously hear us, O Lord.
you bestowed upon the human race
Lamb of God, Your take away
the rewards of eternal salvation;
the sins of the world;
grant, we beg you,
have mercy on us.
that we may feel the power of her

intercession,
V. Pray for us, O Holy Mother of God.
through whom we have been made

worthy to receive the Author of life,
our Lord Jesus Christ your Son,
R. That we may be made worthy

of the promises of Christ.
who lives and reigns with you forever

and ever.
R. Amen.
Let us pray.
Ordinary Time
Grant, we beg you, O Lord God,
that we your servants
may enjoy lasting health of mind and
body, and by the glorious intercession
of the Blessed Mary, ever Virgin,
be delivered from present sorrow
and enter into the joy of eternal
happiness.
Through Christ our Lord.
R. Amen
During Advent
O God,
you willed that, at the message of an
angel, your word should take flesh
in the womb of the Blessed Virgin Mary;
grant to your suppliant people,
that we, who believe her to be truly the
Mother of God, may be helped by her
intercession with you.
During Paschal time

O God, who by the Resurrection of your
Son, our Lord Jesus Christ,
granted joy to the whole world,
grant, we beg you,
that through the intercession of the
Virgin Mary, his Mother,
we may attain the joys of eternal life.
Through the same Christ our Lord.
R. Amen.
Mary plays a notable role in Pauline spirituality. The Pauline Family has the mission of
making Jesus Christ known, imitated, and lived as the Master. It will carry out this
privileged mission in a holy manner by making Mary, Teacher, known, loved, and
invoked. She gave the world Jesus Master, who is the blessed fruit of her womb. Pauline
teaching will be immensely more effective if it is inspired, guided and comforted by
Mary: "With her help you will not grow tired," we sing in one of the Marian hymns. No
one would want to deprive him/herself of such a great help. Pauline discipleship is to be
wholly grafted onto Mary, who will form Jesus Christ in everyone. This means becoming
Christians, apostles, saints. (Cf. Alberione, CISP, p. 1338)
Devotion to Mary, which is a part of the Pauline spirit, has two ends for us: our religious
sanctification and the pastoral apostolate, that is, reaching out to all men and women, To
Jesus through Mary." Write well of Mary because she is the way to go to Jesus, the
easiest way. (Alberione, Ariccia, meditation notes, 1936)
The Pauline Family aspires to live the gospel of Jesus Christ, Way, Truth, and Life,
totally in the spirit of St. Paul, under the gaze of the Queen of the Apostles.
(Alberione, AD 93)
The first devotion we find in the Church is devotion to the Queen of Apostles, as
expressed in the Cenacle. It lessened a bit and became obscure with the passing of the
centuries. You have the sweet mission of gathering the faithful around Mary, Queen
of the Apostles. You are to reawaken this devotion. You are to fulfill this most delightful
mission in the Church. It means reawakening all apostolates and arousing vocations. Let
us return to the sources. At the sources we find Mary, Queen of the Apostles, and if it was
so at the beginning of the Church, there is nothing more certain than to draw from the
ancient Faith. The water is purer when it is taken from its sources. (Alberione, HM VIII,
1947-1948, p. 80)
The Icon of Mary Queen of Apostles
The picture of Mary, Queen of Apostles precisely represents her in the office, in the
mission, that she had: to give Jesus to the world. She is holding Jesus, not tightly to
herself, but offering him as light to all who pass by. He carries the scroll of the gospel, the
Word of life. With his right hand he is gesturing with two fingers; in the first centuries
this indicated not so much a blessing as the authority of the teacher who explains
wisdom. And what must you accomplish in the world by representing Mary, by imitating
Mary? First, interior holiness, and then after that, giving Jesus to the world. (Alberione,
BIM, p. 27)
More about the icon of Mary Queen of Apostles:
http://www.daughtersofstpaul.com/LearnMore/MaryQueenofApostles/tabid/235/Default.aspx
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1. Required Reading
a.
Catechism of the Catholic Church Citta del Vaticano.

Liberia Editrice Vaticana, 1994; Marian articles especially articles 963-972.
b.
Dogmatic Constitution of the Church. Vatican II Documents.

Pauline Books & Media. Boston: MA. 1964. Chapter VIII.
c.
Devotion to Mary Queen of the Apostles Pauline Books & Media.

Boston: MA. Online Pamphlet
a. John Paul II. Mother of the Redeemer. Pauline Books & Media.
Boston: MA. 1987.
b.
Paul VI.
Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary Pauline Books & Media.
Boston: MA. 1974

c. PDF by Sr. Maryann Lorraine Trouve, fsp
Marian Spirituality of Blessed James Alberione
174
Session 8
Mary, Queen of the First Apostles and the Apostles of All Times.
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: Mary, Mother, Teacher and Queen
1. After praying and reflecting on the Marian Litany, which Marian title has a special
meaning for you?
2. What are the reasons you chose this Marian title?
3. Blessed Alberione wanted to give Paulines a Marian title that refers back to the
origins of Marian devotion. When we invoke Mary as Queen of Apostles we
remember the birth of Jesus. Mary presented Jesus to the Shepherds and the Magi. We
especially remember Mary in the Cenacle with the Apostles. She invoked the Holy
Spirit. Today we pray for her intercession as apostles entrusted with the Word of God.
We pray for a new Pentecost as we present Jesus to the world. Share your reflections
on this Pauline Marian title.
175
From The Vatican II Document on the Lay Faithful: Apostolican Actuositatem

[3] The Holy Spirit sanctifies the People of God through the ministry and the
sacraments. However, for the exercise of the apostolate he gives the faithful special
gifts besides (cf. 1 Cor. 12:7), "allotting them to each one as he wills" (1 Cor. 12:11), so
that each and all, putting at the service of others the grace received may be as good
stewards of Gods varied gifts, (1 Pet. 4:10), for the building up of the whole body in
charity (cf. Eph. 4:16).
[4] This lay spirituality will take its particular character from the
circumstances of one's state in life (married and family life, celibacy, widowhood),
from one's state of health and from one's professional and social activity. Whatever the
circumstances, each one has received suitable talents and these should be cultivated, as
should also the personal gifts he has from the Holy Spirit.
Similarly laity who have followed their particular vocation and become
members of any of the associations or institutions approved by the Church, aim
sincerely at making their own the forms of spirituality proper to these bodies.
They should also hold in high esteem professional competence, family and
civic sense, and the virtues related to social behavior such as honesty, sense of justice,
sincerity, courtesy, moral courage; without them there is no true Christian life.
Perfect model of this apostolic spiritual life is the Blessed Virgin Mary, Queen
of Apostles. While on earth her life was like that of any other, filled with labors and the
cares of the home; always, however, she remained intimately united to her Son and
cooperated in an entirely unique way in the Saviors work. And now, assumed into
heaven, her motherly love keeps her attentive to her Sons brothers, still on pilgrimage
amid the dangers and difficulties of life, until they arrive at the happiness of the
fatherland." Everyone should have a genuine devotion to her and entrust his life to her
motherly care.
Vatican.va
On this journey we are accompanied by the Blessed

Virgin Mary to whomI entrusted the Third
Millennium. I have often invoked her as the "Star of
the New Evangelization". Now I point to Mary once again
as the radiant dawn and sure guide for our steps. Once
more, echoing the words of Jesus himself and giving voice
to the filial affection of the whole Church, I say to her:
"Woman, behold your children"(cf. Jn 19:26).
Novo Millennio Inuente, 58 John Paul II
176
Time of Preparation
Session 9:
St. Paul Apostle of Jesus Christ (2 Tim. 1:1).

The Theme for this session: Paul our patron and model
Points to Cover:
-
Paul, discerner of the Spirit
Paul, teacher and apostle of the Gospel of Jesus Christ
Paul model and patron: Imitate me as I imitate Christ (1 Cor. 11:1).
You will need:

-
A Bible or copies of the Letters of Paul (New Testament) for participants.

Suggested music: Ill Lead You Home by Michael W. Smith; Concert of a Lifetime
by Ray Boltz; El Shaddai (Michael W. Smith, Amy Grant);The Cassette For Life by
Michael John Poirier
The movie The Emissary, Paul or another video on the life of Paul
1.
In Honor of Jesus Truth
Open with a Song of Praise Suggestion: El Shaddai by Amy Grant

Leader: During this time of prayer we will meditate on Pauls discernment in the Spirit
asking that we may discern Gods plan for our life and walk that path well.
177
Leader: Choose three people to read a paragraph:

Adapted From the Writings of Fr. Alberione
A beautiful poem says: As a little child rests secure in the arms of his father or mother,
thus the person who has sincere faith rests secure in the heart of God. Remain in the
arms of God and when we discern Gods will let us entrust our path into his hands. Let
us pray Lord, I am your servant. Let us be like a pen in Gods hand that he can write a
beautiful Magnificat with our life. Through this faith and trust in God we understand
the heart of our Divine Master who invites us, Come to me all of you. We understand
St. Paul who in his great heart bore all people and brought them the good news of Jesus
Christ.
From To Live Reconciled by Fr. Amadeo Cencini
Paul was very proud of himself and his titles Pharisee, observer of the law, an apostle
who was not less than the others, etc. Then comes the total transformation and
integration of his limitations, until he can boast precisely because of these. It is Pauls
magnificat. He does not sing of his glory but gives thanks to him who is pleased to work
through Pauls weaknesses. When a person discovers his or her fallibility, at that moment
he or she is worthy to become to an instrument of the power of God. This person accepts
the fact that he or she is weak and poor and finds himself or herself rich in the power of
God.
From Discernment by Pierre Wolff
Discernment is a systematic process of working in time with our intellect and affectivity,
according to a value system illumined by faith and by the divine teaching. It is a life
journey. When we make an important decision we want it to be life giving.
Paul grew after his conversion experience (Gal. 1:11-14). He was not changed all at
once. Mystics train in discernment even though it seems that they rely on intuition or
divine inspiration alone.
178
Pauline Discernment: The Four Wheels from the Pauline Forum on Jesus Master.
The whole person in Christ, for a total love of God: intellect, will, heart, physical
strength. The car runs on four wheels: prayer, poverty of spirit, learning from everything
(study), and mission. The spirituality centered on Christ Master Way-Truth-Life does not
include only the "praying" aspect of the Pauline, but it is a "style of life" which inspires
all the aspects of the charism. "The devotion to the Divine Master is not an accessory
devotion: it covers the whole of our spiritual life, all our studies, all our apostolate, and
all our external activities: everything" (Pr 6 [1958], 5).
"The whole of piety and the interior formation is formed and substantiated in Jesus
Master, Way, Truth and Life. The whole of our study is accomplished and completed with
the knowledge of Jesus Christ Master Way, Truth and Life. The whole of the apostolate is
addressed to give to men Jesus Christ Way, Truth and Life" (Vademecum, 575). Such
spirituality must therefore extend to all the aspects of our life, which the founder
describes with the image of the "car": "The Congregation is like a car which travels on
four wheels: spirit, study, apostolate, poverty. This is the car wherein the Gospel is
brought to souls and on which we must stay in order to give this Gospel to souls" (Vad
365). The image of the car motivates a "spirituality for the mission": the car is utilized for
"bringing and giving the Gospel to souls" and whose wheels must move on together.
Whatever lack of harmony among the "wheels" builds a block which stops us from
advancing.
Fr. Alberione in this regard observes: "It is relatively easy to attend to and to make one or
two parts advance, but it is the whole that must be attended to, just as the four wheels of a
car ought to move. Considering this, we need prayer, advice, reflection on how to elect to
the office of greater responsibility, that one must be well-balanced" (CISP 169). The wellbalanced Pauline, according to Fr. Alberione, harmonizes the "four wheels" in order that
the car might move ahead in the path of evangelization. It concerns a missionary
equilibrium. http://www.stpauls.it/studi/maestro/inglese/ing01.htm
Prayer Together (Adapted from Cardinal Mercier)
Holy Spirit, soul of my soul, I adore you.
Enlighten me, guide me, strengthen me and console me.
Tell me what I ought to do and give me the commission to do it.
I promise to align my mind, will and heart to your desire for my life only I need your grace. May I live you Jesus, Master, Way, Truth and Life
until it is no longer I who live but Jesus living in me (Gal. 2:20).
179
The Four Wheels

Of Pauline
Discernment
Poverty of Spirit
Mission
Prayer
Learn from everything
Silent reading from Pauline sources:

Formation of the whole person in Christ Jesus means formation through a total love of
God in all aspects: intelligence, will, heart, physical energies. Everything; nature, grace,
and vocation is for the apostolate. Thus the Pauline cart rests on four wheels, namely:
1. Piety
The specific objective of the Pauline Piety appears to be three-fold:
a. The continuous contact with the sources, the Bible and the Eucharist
b. The special care in the total development of the person: may they grow in
wisdom, grace, and virtues.
c. Prayer oriented to the apostolic communications: by loving sincerely with the
mind, will heart and with actions. (cf. DSGC, 398; Io Sono con voi, p. 3)
The daily visit to the Blessed Sacrament is born and directed as the relationship of
the disciple with Christ, Master. It is the daily class for the integral growth of life
and for the sincere disposition to the apostolate. (DSGC, 401).
2. Study (may also be referred to as studiosita to indicate a way of living.)
The general lines of studies, as seen by the founder, show the intention of making studies
not as an end in itself but to will it along the order of the integral formation of the person,
to give it all the breath it can assume under the light of Christ and to orient it in love
which is exercised in the apostolate. (DSGC, 402). [In other words: to become a better
person, more Christ-like, and apostolic.]
3. Apostolate or Mission
The end of the apostolate consists in giving salvation to humanity: Jesus Christ, Way,
Truth and Life. And in order to bring the whole Christ to man and render the whole man
to God, through Jesus Christ (DSGC, n. 139), the Paulines should employ the fastest and
most efficacious means of preaching through the use of the media of social
communications. The content of the apostolate must be global and all embracing; thus a
wholistic approach of the Pauline Apostolate includes the following dimensions:
180
a. Universality (King; Catholic)

An ecumenico-universal dimension is essential to the formation of the
Pauline mentality. Ut unum sint: that all may be one in Christ is the
reason of fulfillment of our foundation (cf. DSGC, nn. 82, 83, 84).
b. Pastoral (Priest; Shepherd)
The approach of our apostolate must be simple and ordinary, popular and
pastoral (DSGC, N. 165, 166), relevant and contemporaneous. (cf. DSGC,
n. 89).
c. Prophetic (Prophet; Apostle)
The missionary spirit: the prophetic mission of the Pauline has by itself
no limitations as to geographic locations or its contents. (DSGC, n. 88).
4. Communion of Life.
In the spirit of the Founder: Common life for us is born out of the apostolate and in view
of the apostolate. This type of society, whose goal has been so finalized includes, to be
sure, the common good of the members .[and] has an organization that must take into
account that we are at the service of persons; we are .apostles (UPS I, 285).
a. Our community was born as an intention to love All together, by our loving
one another, we express our love in the integral fulfillment of the Pauline
apostolate (DSGC, n. 409). The Pauline Community has the continuous need of
feeling its presence in the Church as love in order to be sincerely faithful to itself
up to the end and in order to be able to offer itself as a call to many lives that
desire to become everything to everyone. (DSGC, n. 408).
b. An insistence on a solid organization: An organization would be formed, but a
religious one, where energies would be united, where dedication would be total,
where doctrine would be purer. And this society of souls, loving God with all their
mind, strength, and heart, would spend themselves in the work for the Church
(AD 21-22).
c. The persons who make up the [Pauline Family] community constitute its
fundamental value, and the communitys goal is to give them fraternal help
towards their sanctification through their dedication to the apostolate (CD, 17).
d. Pauline poverty consists in renouncing (the independent use and administration
of things), in producing (by hard work), in preserving (that is the maintenance of
things in use), in providing (for the needs of the institute), in building (by
overcoming the desire for goods) [cfr. Pred. VP 294; CD 91.2).
2. In Honor of Jesus Way
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Four Criteria for Discernment

1. Which choice will give me the opportunity to incarnate Christ and
a. be the person I am and not another.
INCARNATION
Prayer
b. accept other people as they are, not as I would like them to be.
c. accept the facts with objectivity.
d. live in the present moment.
2.
Which choice will give me the possibility of being available and
GIVING & GIVING UP

Poverty of Spirit
a. giving up something for the other.

b. being open, welcoming and accepting of my weakness.
3. Which choice will allow me to be universal and

a. aware of all the currents of society so as to discern the signs of the time.
b. open to all the people around me.
c. open to all areas of my life.
UNIVERSAL
Leaning from everything
4. Which choice will best permit me a. To live in reconciliation with myself and others.
IN COMMUNION
Mission
b. To accept the gray areas in my life.

c. To build communion in my family, community, Church, society.
d. To avoid discrimination and be respectful of the differences among people.
We believe that Gods Spirit is working within us with respect for our humanity, for the
limitations of the human beings we are, and for our need to keep growing until we die.
We will look at our life as a history, never perfectly accomplished, always unfinished, but
always penetrated by the dynamism and power of love.
Pierre Wolff, Discernment, Triumph Books, Liguori
182
Through prayer I reflect on the mystery of God and the Incarnation. I choose to follow Christ.
Pauline application: Prayer
Universal. Open to the signs of the time through study of the Word of God,
Church teaching and witnesses of holiness, I make a choice that takes others into
consideration.
Pauline application: (Study)
Learning from everything. Be aware of what is happening, of trends, of

opinions, etc. so as to bring the Gospel to bear on culture.
Pauline Application: Poverty of Spirit
Giving & Giving Up. I acknowledge my weakness and recognize my need of

others. I empty myself in imitation of Jesus (Kenosis) and realize that God works
through my weakness.
Pauline application: Mission
In Communion. Communion with Jesus leads to communion with my brothers

and sisters. I desire to share the Gospel of Jesus with others out of love.
The Discernment Steps of St. Ignatius (from the Spiritual Exercises)

1. have a clear idea of the choice you must make
2. understand the aim or goal of your life free from underlying motives
3. pray to know Gods desire for you
4. weigh the advantages of one choice against the disadvantages of the other
5. choose the reasonable alternative and turn again to prayer, offering your
choice to God
183
Leader: The group will now enter into a personal reflection on the following letters of
Paul divided up among them. After a period of reflection (10-15 minutes) each
participant will prayerfully share with the group evidence of Pauls spirit of discernment.
Using the criteria on discernment reflect on Pauls discernment

in the Spirit. Reflections may be based on any discernment
points. At the end of this time of reflection there will be a
sharing on the points you have discovered in Paul. For this
reason you may want to write down points to share..
1) Romans Chapter 8
__________________________________________
2) Romans Chapter 12
_____________________________________
3) 1 Corinthians Chapter 2
_____________________________________
6) Galatians Chapter 1
7) Ephesians Chapter 2
184
10) Philippians Chapter 2
11) Philippians Chapter 3
12) 1 Thessalonians Chapter 4
13) 1 Timothy Chapter 4
14) 2 Timothy Chapter 2
A Daily Pauline Discernment & Examen Based on the Four Wheels

Discerning Gods plan for my life and walking that path.
Prayer (Incarnation): I believe God that I am in your presence.
Living in the Spirit with Jesus to the Father.
Study (Learn From Everything): I am grateful for these gifts and graces
Learning from the Word of God, the Church, witnesses of holiness in all peoples,
actions, experiences, relationships. Seeing myself and everything through Gods
eyes.
Poverty of Spirit (Giving and Given-up): I believe you are always with me and
listening to my prayer.
God works through our recognized weaknesses. Our primary vocation is the
same: to become self-gift, giving ourselves in love to God and to one another like
God, who, in his very essence, is self-gift: Three Persons giving themselves
eternally in love to one another.
Mission (In Communion): I forgive all who have offended me and I ask pardon of
all whom I have offended.
You are appointed by God through Christ in the Church to bring the Gospel of
Salvation to all of creation (Mark 16:15).
185
Devotion to St. Paul is a sign of the predilection of God. Devotion to St. Paul places us
in the book of life. Saints are great intercessors before God and in their assistance they
approach the Divine Master, Jesus Way, Truth and Life whom they have reproduced in
themselves: Way as model, Truth with teachings, and Life with grace. Saints
communicate this to us by praying for us. St. Paul is way: the Holy Spirit inspires him to
write these words: 'Be imitators of me as I imitate Jesus Christ (1 Cor. 11). St. Paul is
truth: he is teacher and doctor as he possesses and communicates the Gospel which he
calls 'my Gospel', and he begets us in the Gospel (1 Cor. 4:15). St. Paul is life: because
his life is identified with that of Jesus Christ: 'I live now not I, it is Jesus Christ who lives
in me(Gal.2:20). Blessed James Alberione, Union of Cooperators of the Good
Press,VIII, n. 7, June, 15 1925, p.1, 320.
3.
In Honor of Jesus Life

Vespers for St. Paul the Apostle
Leader: God, come to my assistance.

Lord, make haste to help me.
Leader: Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit
As it was in the beginning is now, and will be forever. Amen.
Song suggestion: I Adore Michael John Poirier
Ant. 1 If I would act to please men and women I would not be a servant of Christ
Psalm 116 Through Christ let us continually offer God a sacrifice of praise.
I trusted, even when I said:
I am sorely afflicted,
and when I said in my alarm:
No man can be trusted.
How can I repay the Lord
for his goodness to me?
The cup of salvation I will raise;
186
I will call on the Lords name.

My vows to the Lord I will fulfill
Before all his people.
O precious in the eyes of the Lord
Is the death of his faithful.
Your servant, Lord, your servant am I;
you have loosened my bonds.
A thanksgiving sacrifice I make:
I will call on the Lords name.
My vows to the Lord I will fulfill
before all his people,
In the courts of the house of the Lord,
in your midst, O Jerusalem.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit;
-
As it was in the beginning is now and will be forever. Amen. Ant. 1 If I would act to
please men and women I would not be a servant of Christ.
Ant. 2 I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.
Psalm 126 Joyful Hope in God

Just as you share in sufferings so you will share in the divine glory (2 Cor. 1:7).
When the Lord delivered Zion from bondage,
it seemed like a dream.
Then was our mouth filled with laughter,
on our lips there were songs.
The heathens themselves said:

What marvels the Lord worked for them!
What marvels the Lord worked for us!
Indeed we were glad.
187
Deliver us, O Lord, from our bondage

as streams in dry land.
Those who are sowing in tears
will sing when they reap.
They go out, they go out, full of tears,

carrying seed for the sowing;
They come back, they come back, full of song,
carrying their sheaths.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit
-
As it was in the beginning is now and will be forever. Amen.
Ant. 2
I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.
Ant. 3 For me life is Christ and death is gain. God forbid that I should boast except in
the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Canticle (Eph. 1:3-10) God our Savior
Praised be the God and Father of our Lord, Jesus Christ,
who has bestowed on us in Christ every spiritual blessing in the heavens.
God chose us in him before the world began
to be holy and blameless in his sight.
He predestined us to be his adopted sons and daughters through Jesus Christ,
such was his will and pleasure, that all might praise the glorious favor He has bestowed
on us in his beloved.
In him and through his blood, we have been redeemed, aAnd our sins forgiven.
So immeasurably generous is Gods favor to us.
God has given us the wisdom to understand fully the mystery,
the plan he was pleased to decree in Christ.
188
A plan to be carried out in Christ, in the fullness of time,

to bring all things into one in him, [n the heaven and on earth.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit
-
As it was in the beginning is now and will be forever. Amen.
Ant. 3 For me life is Christ and death is gain. God forbid that I should boast except in the
cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Reading 1 Cor. 15: 9-10
I am the least of the apostles; in fact, because I persecuted the Church of God, I do not
even deserve the name. But by Gods favor I am what I am. This favor of his to me has
not proved fruitless. Indeed, I have worked harder than all the others, not on my own but
through the favor of God.
Responsory
I bless you, Lord, with all my heart.
I will give glory to your name before all the people
With all my heart.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and to the Holy Spirit.
Ant. Paul, apostle of the Gospel and teacher of all people, pray for us to God who chose
you.
Canticle (Lk 1:46-55) My Soul Rejoice in the Lord
(Stand) Alternate Sides
My soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord,
my spirit rejoices in God my Savior for he has looked with favor on his lowly servant.
From this day all generations will call me blessed:
The Almighty has done great things for me, and holy is his Name.
He has mercy on those who fear him in every generation.
He has shown the strength of his arm; He has scattered the proud in their conceit.
189
He has cast down the mighty from their thrones, and has lifted up the lowly.
He has filled the hungry with good things, and the rich he has sent away empty.
He has come to the help of his servant Israel, for he has remembered his promise of
mercy, the promise he made to our father, to Abraham and his children forever.
Glory to the Father and to the Son and the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning is now
and will be forever.
Ant. Paul, apostle of the Gospel and teacher of all people, pray for us to God who chose
you.
Intercessions:
Built on the foundation of the apostles to form the living temple of God, we pray
with faith:
Be mindful of your Church, O Lord.
Father, you wanted your apostles to be the first witnesses of your risen Son,
we ask you to make us witnesses of his resurrection.
You sent your Son to preach the good news to the poor,
grant that the Gospel may be announced to all humanity.
You sent your Son to reconcile all men to you through his blood,
help us all to work toward achieving this reconciliation and peace.
You who called us to the preaching of the Gospel with the media of communication,
grant that these means may always be used by us with a pastoral spirit.
Your Son sits at your right hand in heaven as King of the universe,
let the dead enter your kingdom of joy.
Our Father
Prayer Together
Lord, our God, who chose the apostle Paul to preach your Gospel, grant that the whole
world may be enlightened by the faith which he announced to kings and nations, so that
your Church may be built up always as Mother and Teacher of peoples. Through Christ
our Lord. Amen.
190
May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life.
- Amen.
Let us bless the Lord,
-
And give him thanks.
Pauline Liturgical Texts
Song: Ill Lead You Home from Ill Lead You Home, Michael W. Smith.
The Lord speaks through our mind and heart to strengthen our will.
He wants us to have life to the full (John 10:10).
4.
Break
5.
Gather for sharing
Needed: The video Paul the Emissary (one hour) or another life of Paul the section of
the video can be set at Paul and Silas in the Roman prison. (point 16 minutes) or Paul &
Silas (1:45)
Music: The Concert of a Lifetime by Ray Boltz for the song I Will Praise the Lord.
Video: Fr. Barron on St. Paul
Video Showing: Show the portion of the video with Paul and Silas thrown into prison
until their release by the earthquake and the conversion of the jailer.
Begin the time of sharing introducing Paul as our model on the spiritual journey
especially amidst hardships. The video and song will accentuate the fact that Paul
learned to trust and praise Jesus in all circumstances. Sharing may begin with these
reflections:
What chains may keep us from praising and trusting God?
Why do Paul and Silas sing? Is their song Liturgical? (Psalms)
What did Paul do after his chains were loosed? What could he have done?
191
What could the earthquake stand for?

How did the faith of Paul and Silas assist the other prisoners?
How did their faith assist the jailer? How might our faith do the same?
How did Paul and Silas discern their predicament and how did they apply the
Pauline steps for discernment?
Song: As a conclusion play the song by Ray Boltz I Will Praise the Lord
St. Paul and Praxedis, daughter

of Pudens mentioned in the
letter to Timothy 4:21.
The Legend and Tradition
192

1. Required Reading (also found online)
a. Catechism of the Catholic Church Citta Del Vaticana. Liberia Editrice Vaticana,
1994.
Articles on Formation of Conscience 1773; 1795-96; Following Jesus 519-521
1629-1729 http://www.vatican.va/archive/ENG0015/_INDEX.HTM
b. John Paul II. The Lay Members of Christs Faithful People Christifideles Laici.
Pauline Books & Media. Boston: 1988. Chapter V. Formation of the Lay Faithful.
Au, Wilkie, S.J. By Way of the Heart: Toward a Holistic Christian Spirituality.
Paulist Press. New Jersey: 1989.
Wolff, Pierre.
Discernment:The Art of Choosing Well.
Rupnik, Marko Ivan.
Liguori. Liguori, MO: 1993
Human Frailty, Divine Redemption: The Theology and Practice
of the Examin. Pauline Books & Media.
Discernment of Spirits online video: Fr. Timothy Gallagher, OVM

A printable guide to the Examen
3.
Reporter Assignment extra
Interview a Pauline Priest, Brother or Sister on these topics frequently reflected on by

Blessed James Alberione:
Personality in configuration with Christ
Holiness: having the mind of Christ.
193
Session 9
St Paul, Apostle of Jesus Christ
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: Paul, patron, apostle and model
When a person discovers his or her fallibility, at that moment he or she is worthy to
become an instrument of the power of God. This person accepts that fact that he or she is
weak and poor and finds himself or herself rich in the power of God. - Amadeo Cencini
1. As we study the life of Paul and read his letters we find this theme of gratitude for
Gods gift of faith. Paul understood that he did nothing to merit the gift of faith even
though he practiced the law, was a good Pharisee, followed all of the prescriptions of the
Torah. Paul was a good person but he counted all as rubbish in view of salvation in
Christ Jesus. Reflect on ways you may have been hoping to win Gods favor. Then,
reflect on the fact that He gives all to you freely. Pray with Paul, By Gods favor I am
what I am this favor of his to me has not proved fruitless (1 Cor. 15:10). How will
your life reflect the overwhelming gift of faith and trust in Gods love for you?
2.
Paul grew after his conversion experience (Gal. 1:11-14). He was not changed all at
once. This is encouraging for us. As we enter into discernment for Gods will we are
entering into a process of deep-listening. The root word for obedience comes from obaudio ypakoe in Greek and means to listen to what is under and beyond what is
heard. Discernment is not just something we reserve for special occasions in our life. It is
an attitude for Christian living. Our goal is to live as Christ. After praying this session
how will you live discernment in your daily life?
Prayer desiring to live the life of Christ

Poverty knowing our weakness and that all is gift
Study listening deeply as God speaks to us
Mission being sent to announce this good news to the world!
194
Time of Preparation
Session 10
The Word of God and the Eucharist Light and Strength of

our Apostolic Vocation.
Constitutions of the Daughters of St. Paul # 8

The Theme for this Session:
Communicating GodWord and Eucharist
Points to Cover:
-
The Liturgy: Source and Summit of the Churchs Activity (Vatican II Constitution On
the Sacred Liturgy, 10)
Everything from the Tabernacle Blessed James Alberione
The Bible is the life of the apostle of the media. Blessed James Alberione
You will need:

-
A Bible (New Testament for all participants)
Suggested Music: Sanctus by the Daughters of St.Paul; Agnus Dei by Michael W.

Smith; The Final Word and The Beginning by Michael Card; To Be Your Bread by
Marty Haugen
Adoration: Opening Invocations

Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.
St. Paul the Apostles, pray for us.
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1. Jesus Truth
Note to Leader: The original Latin text was kept in this document but you may just read
the English equivalent.
A Reflection on Pauline Spirituality in the Thought of Blessed James Alberione
The term "devotion", referred to as the specific manner of approaching and
interiorizing the figure of Christ Master, is to be understood in its richest meaning,
starting from its Latin derivation "devotio": enthusiasm and total devotion to a person
admired and loved. It ought not to be understood as "devotionism" or "pious
sentimentalism". Fr. Alberione clarifies: "Devotion is consecration, dedication to the
Divine Master, Way, Truth and Life, total self-giving of our whole selves, in our physical,
moral, intellectual energies, and also in the being from where these energies come. It is to
draw everything from the Divine Master, in his light, in his spirit, in his examples and in
his grace. To live in him, for him, with him, and by him" (HM I, 3, 14). Devotion is
therefore the totality of self-giving of ones thought, action and prayer; mind, will and
heart focused on Christ Master Truth, Way and Life.
The totality of the Pauline vitally encounters the totality of Christ above all during
moments of prayer and of profound communion of spirit. The Eucharistic adoration,
according the "way, truth and life method," has been proposed since January 1924. In the
same manner the veneration of the Gospel in the form of reading, meditating, and
"exposition" of the Gospel in chapel and in the Pauline places, as well as "Gospel feasts"
in parishes, has been proposed, so that "the Good Press is a commentary to the Gospel"
(UCBS 15 May 1924; PP 841).
The spirituality of the Paulines mission is focused on Christ Master Way-Truth-Life
because our apostolate is "authentic preaching," our apostolic role is "magisterial" and
"teaching". It is "the preaching of the Word of God with technical means and audiovisual
techniques: it is the docete, teaching, repeating the teaching of Jesus Christ and of the
Church in a manner that reaches sooner and broader" (UPS I, 152). The identity of the
Pauline can be expressed with the term of "apostle": "When are we apostles? When we
live Jesus Christ, when we can say: "Vivit vero in me Christus (Christ truly lives in me),
then we radiate Jesus Christ. We radiate through the words of preaching; we radiate in life
196
through examples; we radiate in prayers with the supplication to the Lord; we radiate in
works through the publications, the work for the salvation of souls" (Pr I, 50).
The Pauline apostolate is a "continuation of the work of Jesus Master" so it is founded
on the "Pauline priesthood": it is an authentic preaching. "By the apostolate of the
editions, one understands not merely that complex of initiatives which reject what offends
morals and the Christian faith, or that propose some particular ideal of goodness, but one
understands it to be a true mission that could be properly defined as preaching of the
divine Word through the editions... Like oral preaching, the written or printed one spreads
the Word of God, multiplying it in order to let it reach everywhere" (AE 12-13).
The Pauline mission of proclaiming Christ Master with the modern means of
communication is preaching which supposes the "Pauline priesthood" and requires the
close collaboration of the disciple (Pauline Brother), of the sister and of the lay person.
The totality of Pauline preaching is composed of "editorial-technical-diffusion" which are
brought to reality through the complementarity of the "ministerial priesthood" and of "the
priesthood of the laity" employed in communication.
Before the Pauline can "teach" others in the apostolate, he must "go to school" to
Christ Teacher. In order to be "apostles of communication" we must be disciples of
Christ Master Way-Truth-Life. Fr. Alberione summarizes "discipleship" as the process of
"Christification": "We need a formation that forms us to live Jesus Christ: donec formetur
Christus in vobis; until Christ is formed in us (cf. Gal 4:19), since we are to be followers
of Christ for others.
Drawing inspiration from St. Paul, Fr. Alberione integrates the meaning of the "I live
no longer I but Christ lives in me" (Gal 2:20) with the apostolic zeal of the "I have
become all things to all" (1 Cor 9:22). Regarding the Apostle who said "in my flesh I am
filling up what is lacking" (Col 1:24), Fr. Alberione asks,
What could be lacking from the Passion of Christ? Is his redemption wanting,
perhaps? No; on the other hand, it is bountiful and overabundant. What is lacking,
instead, is the application; and application is everything for us, for all the two
billion and nine hundred million people! Before this problem, everything else
falls in the second place: to save ourselves is to save others, this matters" (UPS I,
79). The apostolic mission is the "application" of redemption to all people through
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communication. "The process of sanctification is a process of Christification:

until Christ is formed in you (Gal 4:19). So we shall be saints according to the
measure we live the life of Jesus Christ; or better, according to the measure that
Christ lives in us. Christianus alter Christus, the Christian is another Christ.
This is what St. Paul says of himself: I live no longer I but Christ lives in me
(Gal 2:29) (CISP 11).
The same bond between holiness and apostolate is a divine lesson of the Master, the way
marked for the Pauline, just as Fr. Alberione affirms:
When Jesus says, Magister vester unus est, Christus You have only one Master
(Mt 23:8), he means that He is not only a teacher, but the true and only Master,
the perfect Master; he precedes by example. And this is the path drawn for
Paulines": ever disciples of the Master; ever living the Master; ever listening to
the Master; ever revealing the Master. With the Master and dependent on the
Master, they shall be masters of wisdom, of perfection, of life" (Vad 226).
From the Pauline Forum on Jesus Master, Rome
Pause for reflection.
Reflection music suggestion
The Final Word by Michael Card
* Leader: See appendix for copies of the Pauline Offertory if you choose to introduce this here.
Prayer Together
Jesus, Divine Master, we adore you as the only-begotten Son of God come on the earth to
give life, the most abundant life. We adore you, Word Incarnate, sent by the Father to
instruct us in life giving truths. You are uncreated Truth. You alone have words of eternal
life. You give us life in baptism and nourish us in the Eucharist and in the other
sacraments. Live is us, Jesus, with the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, so that we may love
you with our whole mind, strength and heart, and love our neighbor as ourselves for love
of you. We place ourselves in your school of the Word and Eucharist. Draw us to you.
We desire to be similar to you.
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2. Jesus Way
Note to the Leader: Choose readers one, two and three for the following reflection.
Leader: The Pauline life was born from the tabernacle and so it is to be lived from the
tabernacle. In the Gospel of John we read that Jesus passed by John the Baptist as he was
teaching his disciples. John pointed Jesus out and said,
Reader 1
Leader
Look, there is the Lamb of God.

Hearing this, two disciples followed Jesus.
He turned around and asked them,
Reader 2
What do you want?
All
Rabbi, where do you live?
Reader 2
Come and see. He said.
Reader 3
So we went and saw where he lived,

and stayed with him the rest of that day (John 1:35-39)
Leader
Both of these disciples followed Jesus and became his apostles. One
was John the Evangelist and the other was Andrew. The first thing Andrew did after he
met Jesus was to bring his brother Peter to Jesus. Let us take some time to reflect on how
meeting Jesus changes our life and makes us apostles of his Word and Sacrament. This
first visit with Jesus transformed the two disciples.
(Adapted from Blessed James Alberione)
Silent reflection on the scripture passage. Refer to your Bible for further reflection on
this chapter of Johns Gospel.
-
How do you spend time with Jesus in his Word and Eucharistic presence?
How is your life transformed by the Liturgy and the Sacraments?
Who do you bring to Jesus?
How can you make your visit to Jesus the heart of each day?
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Song: Suggestion is The Word is So Near from The Beginning by Michael Card.
If after having been with Jesus you feel him living and working in you and you feel the need to plunge
into his presence from time to time to refresh yourselfyou will quickly arrive at contemplation and
mystical prayer the transformation in Christ Christ lives in me. Life will be transformed into prayer
and prayer will give life. Blessed James Alberione
Our ministry of the Gospel becomes fruitful through the power of the Eucharist. As
Jesus said to his Apostles at the Last Supper: "No longer do I call you servants... but I
have called you friends.... You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you that
you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should abide" (Jn 15:15-16).
Pope John Paul II, 1994 Holy Thursday Message
3. Jesus Life
Leader: Because it is Gods book the Bible is very useful for prayer. It is a help for
spiritual reading, for meditation and for prayer, not simply because it contains many
prayer forms, such as the psalms, but because it links us to God in a complete way with
our mind, our feelings and our will. With our mind: the Bible sets out Gods truths and
thus we can think as God thinks; with our heart: it stirs up feelings of love for God and
our neighbor, in accordance with the heart of Jesus; with our will: it roots our life in
Gods will; right up to achieving holiness. Blessed James Alberion
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Pray Together Psalm 13

O Lord, you have searched me and you know me.
You know when I sit and when I stand.
You know my thoughts from afar.
My journeys and my rest you know, with all my ways you are familiar.
Where can I go from your Spirit?
From your presence where can I flee?
If I go to the heavens, you are there;
if I sink to the underworld, you are present there.
If I take the wings of the dawn, or settle at the farthest limits of the sea,
even there your hand will guide me.
Leader: Invite everyone to spontaneous prayer and conclude with the Our Father.
Closing Song invocations Lord I need you. Matt Maher
4. Break
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Activity
In this activity each person plays the role of
detective. Each participant will need a New
Testament as well a copy of the excerpt from
Track
ing the Scri

ptures in the Liturgy
Dies Domini (provided). The object of this

search is to locate the scripture quotes that
are cited in the document and find the
surrounding passages.
For example # 42 in Dies Domini states:
All things were created through Christ (Cf
Col. 1:16, Jn 1:3).
Two participants may take this quote. One can look up Col. 1:16 and the other Jn. 1:3.
After everyone has located their quotes and the surrounding biblical passages, they report
their findings to the group. One way to report is to read the citation from the Bible and
then tell the group in what context Paul or John was speaking. In John, for example, this
quote is from the prologue where the author of John states: In him all things were made
and whatever came to be found life in him. John, the reporter may continue, is
introducing his Gospel in this passage and tells us of the Incarnation. The reporter may
also answer the question: In what context does John Paul II use this quote in referring to
the Liturgy?
You may come up with other creative ways to explore the excerpt of Dies Domini.
For example you can provide everyone with missalettes and invite them to find passages
from the Eucharistic Prayers that contain the basic beliefs of our Catholic profession of
faith.
202
APOSTOLIC LETTER DIES
DOMINI OF THE HOLY FATHER JOHN PAUL II TO THE
BISHOPS, CLERGY AND FAITHFUL OF THE CATHOLIC CHURCH ON KEEPING THE LORD'S
DAY HOLY
32. The Eucharist is not only a particularly intense expression of the reality of the
Church's life, but also in a sense its "fountain-head". (39) The Eucharist feeds and forms
the Church: "Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all
partake of the one bread" (1 Cor 10:17). Because of this vital link with the sacrament of
the Body and Blood of the Lord, the mystery of the Church is savored, proclaimed, and
lived supremely in the Eucharist. (40)
This ecclesial dimension intrinsic to the Eucharist is realized in every Eucharistic
celebration. But it is expressed most especially on the day when the whole community
comes together to commemorate the Lord's Resurrection. Significantly, the Catechism of
the Catholic Church teaches that "the Sunday celebration of the Lord's Day and his
Eucharist is at the heart of the Church's life." (41)
33. At Sunday Mass, Christians relive with particular intensity the experience of the
Apostles on the evening of Easter when the Risen Lord appeared to them as they were
gathered together (cf. Jn 20:19). In a sense, the People of God of all times were present in
that small nucleus of disciples, the first fruits of the Church. Through their testimony,
every generation of believers hears the greeting of Christ, rich with the messianic gift of
peace, won by his blood and offered with his Spirit: "Peace be with you!" Christ's return
among them "a week later" (Jn 20:26) can be seen as a radical prefiguring of the
Christian community's practice of coming together every seven days, on "the Lord's Day"
or Sunday, in order to profess faith in his Resurrection and to receive the blessing which
he had promised: "Blessed are those who have not seen and yet believe" (Jn 20:29). This
close connection between the appearance of the Risen Lord and the Eucharist is
suggested in the Gospel of Luke in the story of the two disciples of Emmaus, whom
Christ approached and led to understand the Scriptures and then sat with them at table.
They recognized him when he "took the bread, said the blessing, broke it and gave it to
them" (24:30). The gestures of Jesus in this account are his gestures at the Last Supper,
203
with the clear allusion to the "breaking of bread", as the Eucharist was called by the first
generation of Christians.
The table of the word
39. As in every Eucharistic celebration, the Risen Lord is encountered in the Sunday
assembly at the twofold table of the word and of the Bread of Life. The table of the word
offers the same understanding of the history of salvation and especially of the Paschal
Mystery which the Risen Jesus himself gave to his disciples: it is Christ who speaks,
present as he is in his word "when Sacred Scripture is read in the Church". (60) At the
table of the Bread of Life, the Risen Lord becomes really, substantially and enduringly
present through the memorial of his Passion and Resurrection, and the Bread of Life is
offered as a pledge of future glory.
The Second Vatican Council recalled that "the Liturgy of the Word and the
Liturgy of the Eucharist are so closely joined together that they form a single
act of worship"(61).
The table of the Body of Christ
42. The table of the word leads naturally to the table of the Eucharistic Bread and
prepares the community to live its many aspects, which in the Sunday Eucharist assume
an especially solemn character. As the whole community gathers to celebrate "the Lord's
Day", the Eucharist appears more clearly than on other days as the great "thanksgiving"
in which the Spirit-filled Church turns to the Father, becoming one with Christ and
speaking in the name of all humanity. The rhythm of the week prompts us to gather up in
grateful memory the events of the days which have just passed, to review them in the
light of God and to thank him for his countless gifts, glorifying him "through Christ, with
Christ and in Christ, in the unity of the Holy Spirit". The Christian community thus
comes to a renewed awareness of the fact that all things were created through Christ (cf.
Col 1:16; Jn 1:3), and that in Christ, who came in the form of a slave to take on and
redeem our human condition, all things have been restored (cf. Eph 1:10), in order to be
handed over to God the Father, from whom all things come to be and draw their life.
204
Then, giving assent to the Eucharistic doxology with their "Amen", the People of God
look in faith and hope towards the eschatological end, when Christ "will deliver the
kingdom to God the Father ... so that God may be everything to everyone" (1 Cor 15:24,
28).
Sunday in the Liturgical Year
76. With its weekly recurrence, the Lord's Day is rooted in the most ancient tradition of
the Church and is vitally important for the Christian. But there was another rhythm which
soon established itself: the annual liturgical cycle. Human psychology in fact desires the
celebration of anniversaries, associating the return of dates and seasons with the
remembrance of past events. When these events are decisive in the life of a people, their
celebration generally creates a festive atmosphere which breaks the monotony of daily
routine.
Now, by God's design, the great saving events upon which the Church's life is founded
were closely linked to the annual Jewish feasts of Passover and Pentecost, and were
prophetically foreshadowed in them. Since the second century, the annual celebration of
Easter by Christians having been added to the weekly Easter celebration allowed a
more ample meditation on the mystery of Christ crucified and risen. Preceded by a
preparatory fast, celebrated in the course of a long vigil, extended into the fifty days
leading to Pentecost, the feast of Easter "solemnity of solemnities" became the day
par excellence for the initiation of catechumens. Through baptism they die to sin and rise
to a new life because Jesus "was put to death for our sins and raised for our justification"
(Rom 4:25; cf. 6:3-11). Intimately connected to the Paschal Mystery, the Solemnity of
Pentecost takes on special importance, celebrating as it does the coming of the Holy
Spirit upon the Apostles gathered with Mary and inaugurating the mission to all peoples.
(120)
77. A similar commemorative logic guided the arrangement of the entire Liturgical Year.
As the Second Vatican Council recalls, the Church wished to extend throughout the year
"the entire mystery of Christ, from the Incarnation and Nativity to the Ascension, to the
day of Pentecost and to the waiting in blessed hope for the return of the Lord.
Remembering in this way the mysteries of redemption, the Church opens to the faithful
the treasury of the Lord's power and merits, making them present in some sense to all
205
times, so that the faithful may approach them and be filled by them with the grace of
salvation". (121)
After Easter and Pentecost, the most solemn celebration is undoubtedly the Nativity of
the Lord, when Christians ponder the mystery of the Incarnation and contemplate the
Word of God who deigns to assume our humanity in order to give us a share in his
divinity.
78. Likewise, "in celebrating this annual cycle of the mysteries of Christ, the holy Church
venerates with special love the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, united forever with
the saving work of her Son". (122) In a similar way, by inserting into the annual cycle the
commemoration of the martyrs and other saints on the occasion of their anniversaries,
"the Church proclaims the Easter mystery of the saints who suffered with Christ and with
him are now glorified". (123) When celebrated in the true spirit of the liturgy, the
commemoration of the saints does not obscure the centrality of Christ, but on the contrary
extols it, demonstrating as it does the power of the redemption wrought by him. As Saint
Paulinus of Nola sings, "all things pass, but the glory of the saints endures in Christ, who
renews all things, while he himself remains unchanged". (124) The intrinsic relationship
between the glory of the saints and that of Christ is built into the very arrangement of the
Liturgical Year, and is expressed most eloquently in the fundamental and sovereign
character of Sunday as the Lord's Day. Following the seasons of the Liturgical Year in the
Sunday observance which structures it from beginning to end, the ecclesial and spiritual
commitment of Christians comes to be profoundly anchored in Christ, in whom believers
find their reason for living and from whom they draw sustenance and inspiration.
www.vatican.va
Note: In readings from Dies Domini the numbers before paragraphs are really paragraphs in the
document. The numbers within parentheses are footnotes which can be found on website or in a
printed copy.
The Eucharist evangelizes our surroundings and confirms us in the

hope that Christ's words will not pass away (cf. Lk 21:33).
Pope John Paul II, 1994 Holy Thursday Message
206
1. Required Reading (also found online).

a.
Catechism of the Catholic Church. Citta del Vaticano.

Liberia Editrice Vaticana, 1994; Articles on the Eucharist especially
1329-1332; 1342- 1345; 1349; 1373-1378; Articles on the Scripture
especially 102-108; 114; 2653-2654.
b.
John Paul II. Dies Domini Pauline Books & Media Boston: 1998 or re- read
the section provided in this session.
c.
John Paul II. Dominica Cenae Pauline Books & Media Boston
d.
Meditate on the New Testament at least 10 minutes each day or on readings

from the weekday and Sunday Liturgy of the Word.
2. Recommended Reading (also available online)

a.
Vatican II Constitution on the Sacred Liturgy: SACROSANCTUM

CONCILIUM (Blessed James Alberione was one of the signers of this
document. He attended all of the sessions of Vatican II.)
b.
Subscribe to Emmanuel a magazine of Eucharistic Spirituality from the

Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament founded by St. Peter Julian Eymard.
Web Address: http://emmanuelpublishing.org
c.
Pauline Editions on the Eucharist and the Bible found at your local center.
d.
Slide Share: Vatican II and Blessed James Alberione
207
e.
JESUS, THE MASTER YESTERDAY, TODAY AND FOR EVER

The spirituality of the Pauline communicator
Author and Topic
Silvio Pignotti ssp,

INTRODUCTION TO THE SEMINAR
Antonio F. da Silva ssp
"AT THE CENTER IS JESUS CHRIST, WAY, TRUTH AND LIFE"
Luigi Giovannini ssp
JESUS MASTER IN THE THEOLOGICAL AND EXEGETICAL PRODUCTION
Eliseo Sgarbossa ssp
JESUS, "THE MASTER" a historical-charismatic survey
Caterina Antonietta Martini fsp
JESUS MASTER: A SPIRITUALITY FOR THE MISSION
Regina Cesarato pddm
THE MASTER AND HIS SISTER DISCIPLES: A LIFE RELATIONSHIP
Elena Bosetti sgbp
THE MASTER-SHEPHERD: THE INHERITANCE OF FR. ALBERIONE FOR THE PASTORELLE
Maddalena Verani ap
HOW FR. ALBERIONE INTRODUCED JESUS "THE MASTER" TO THE APOSTOLINE SISTERS
Mons. Gianfranco Ravasi
THE MASTER IN THE BIBLE
Giovanni Helewa ocd
THE MASTER IN ST. PAUL
Franco Pierini ssp
THE MASTER IN THE FATHERS AND IN ECCLESIAL TRADITION
P. Bruno Forte
THE MASTER IN THE THEOLOGICAL REFLECTION FROM THE MODERN ERA TO OUR TIMES
Guido Gandolfo ssp
"JESUS, THE MASTER" IN THE SPIRITUALITY ACCORDING TO FR. ALBERIONE
Jos Bortolini ssp
JESUS MASTER AND THE MASTER IN OUR FORMATION ACCORDING TO FR. ALBERIONE
Tefilo Prez ssp
JESUS MASTER IN OUR APOSTOLATE ACCORDING TO FR. ALBERIONE
Silvio Sassi ssp
THE TOTAL CHRIST FOR THE CENTURY OF GLOBAL COMMUNICATION
208
Session 10
The Word of God and the Eucharist Light and Strength of our Apostolic
Vocation. Constitutions of the Daughters of St. Paul # 8
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: Communicating God Word and Eucharist
Tracking the Scriptures in the Liturgy

In this activity you are a detective. You will
need a New Testament as well a copy of the
John Paul IIs Dies Domini. The object of this
search is to locate the scripture quotes that are
cited in the document and find the surrounding
passages. Use the following numbers of the
Document: 32,42,76,77 and 78.
For example: In # 42 Dies Domini states all things were created through Christ. (Cf
Col. 1:16, Jn 1:3) You look up Col. 1:16 and Jn. 1:3. After you locate the quotes in the
document and the corresponding biblical passages you may write your findings. One
way to report is to read the citation from the Bible and then explain in what context Paul
(Col.) and John were speaking. In John, for example, the quote is from the prologue
where the author of John states: In him all things were made and whatever came to be
found life in him (John 1:4). John, you may continue, is introducing his gospel in
this passage that tells us of the Incarnation. You may also answer the question: In what
context does John Paul II use this quote in referring to the Liturgy?
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
209
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Option 2
Using a missal or missalette find passages from the Eucharistic Prayers that contain the
basic beliefs of our Catholic profession of faith.
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________________________
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210
Time of Preparation
Session 11:
That They May be One (John 17:21).

The Theme for this session: Ecumenism and Inter-religious Dialogue
Points to Cover:
-
Dialogue as an exchange of gifts

Truth does not impose itself Ut Unim Sint
The mystery of communion
You will need:

-
The Bible or Gospels for each participant.
Articles, newspapers, Internet search printouts for Activity on Ecumenism/Dialog
Catholic newspapers, LOsservatore Romano, Catholic magazines, or internet articles

on ecumenism/inter-religious dialogue.
Suggested music: One Faith sung by John Michael Talbot & Michael Card
Millennium by Daughters of St Paul; Touched by Love by Daughters of St Paul The

Reconciliation Song
Opening Invocations
Jesus Master and Shepherd, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us
211

Honoring Jesus Truth
Song: Keep Silence from The Regathering by John Michael Talbot
A reading adapted from a Retreat in 1960 given by Blessed James Alberione
There are over three [in 2014: seven] billion people in the world. They are spread out
over the five continents, broken down into countries and families. Our heart needs to be
vaster than the seas. Let all these people be loved as Gods children and as our
brothers and sistersour traveling companions on the way to eternity Love everyone,
think of everyone, and work with the spirit of the Gospel which is universality and mercy.
The Pauline apostle brings light to all who have erred and makes straight the way
of their return to the Catholic Church. He does so with the goodness of the Good
Shepherd who seeks out the lost sheep, takes it on his shoulders and brings it back to the
fold.
As regards editorial work with respect to other Christian denominations and other
religious beliefs, the first step is prayer and study. Prayer so as to love people with a
sincere heart. To be moved by the sight of hunger, sickness and moral suffering brings us
into line with the compassionate heart of our Teacher. But even more worthy of our
compassion are those who do not know God, Jesus Christ, or the Church.
You need to study their errors, difficulties and objections in order to give suitable
instruction, to reply clearly, to use the proper means.
Some rules:
1. Convey Christianity as the religion of goodness, order and peace.
2. Prepare an introduction to the study of Christian doctrine: this acts as a preliminary
stage to the basic notions regarding doctrine, morals and worship.
3. Treat people with patience, respect and constant kindness.
212
4. Avoid becoming ill-tempered; show yourself to be conciliatory (to gain or win favor)
to the limits of truth; avoid questions of pure politics; be respectful, honest and sincere;
admit what is or was truly a mistake.
5. Combat error and sin, not the erring or the sinner.
6. Make abundant use of the defense of truth and justice; employ discussion with a great
deal of prudence. Polemics (controversial arguments or refutation) requires greater
intellectual preparation, greater love for the truth, greater spiritual balance. To avoid
becoming emotional is a great virtue.
7. Organize groups of people who will pray for us and are capable of making sacrifices to
help our editorial, technical and promotional work.
- Ut Perfectus Sit Homo Dei, pgs 455, 458.
A Reading from the Letter of Paul to the Galatians, Chapter 5: 22-26; 6:6
A Reading adapted from the Conferences of Mother Thecla Merlo
We can learn from everyone. If we want to do good to others we must first seek
holiness, empty our heart of self-love so that there is room for the gifts of God. We are
here to become holy. St. Paul exhorts us to love each other, to bear with one another, to
help each other. We want to be borne with, sympathized with do we bear with others
and show compassion? St. Paul says that anyone who thinks he is important when he is
really not important is fooling himself (Gal 6:3). If we have this attitude of humble
respect and service then it will be easy to esteem others, to love them, to be
compassionate.
Prayer Together
Jesus, you have reconciled all things to yourself by your fidelity to the Father
to the point of death on a cross.
Help your Church, born of your blood, to reconcile all peoples to you.
Forgive us our bickering and divisions;
deliver us from our rivalries and conflicts,
so that people will know we are Christians
213
by our love for one another.

We ask for the strength to put aside all labels
and judgments on groups or individuals.
Take away our fear and replace it
with your universal love.
Help us to share your Gospel message through our lives of prayer and service.
Help us to accept the differences of others to allow others to teach us to dialogue
without causing divisions in our communities.
Help us to leave aside our own glory and seek only your glory.
Reconcile us in truth by giving us the strength to leave our need for security,
our need to be right, and our desire to change others, in order to trust in You.
Help us not to confuse preservation of orthodoxy with protection of our ego defenses
that cause us to condemn others.
Jesus, help us to live truth first and then announce it to others.
Help us to build up the Church together as members of your Mystical Body.
Give us your Spirit so that we may patiently discern a new way of walking together,
of seeking truth together, of building up the community of the faithful together.
Adapted from To Live Reconciled, Fr. Amadeo Cencini
Optional Song:
The Reconciliation Song from Touched By Love by The Daughers of St. Paul
In Honor of Jesus Way with, in and through the Church
Take a few moments
Thank God for the graces with which he has touched your life.
Optional Song: Your Grace is Enough by Matt Maher

Silent Reading and Reflection Time allotted: 15 minutes
Read Chapters 3, 5, 9, 28, and 29 from Ut Unum Sint John Paul II
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On the Commitment to Ecumenism, May 25, 1995

3. At the Second Vatican Council, the Catholic Church committed herself irrevocably to
following the path of the ecumenical venture, thus heeding the Spirit of the Lord, who
teaches people to interpret carefully the "signs of the times." The experiences of these
years have made the Church even more profoundly aware of her identity and her mission
in history. The Catholic Church acknowledges and confesses the weaknesses of her
members, conscious that their sins are so many betrayals of and obstacles to the
accomplishment of the Savior's plan. Because she feels herself constantly called to be
renewed in the spirit of the Gospel, she does not cease to do penance. At the same time,
she acknowledges and exalts still more the power of the Lord, who fills her with the gift
of holiness, leads her forward, and conforms her to his Passion and Resurrection.
Taught by the events of her history, the Church is committed to freeing herself from every
purely human support, in order to live in depth the Gospel law of the Beatitudes.
Conscious that the truth does not impose itself except "by virtue of its own truth, as it
makes its entrance into the mind at once quietly and with power", she seeks nothing for
herself but the freedom to proclaim the Gospel. Indeed, her authority is exercised in the
service of truth and charity.
I myself intend to promote every suitable initiative aimed at making the witness of the
entire Catholic community understood in its full purity and consistency, especially
considering the engagement which awaits the Church at the threshold of the new
Millennium. That will be an exceptional occasion, in view of which she asks the Lord to
increase the unity of all Christians until they reach full communion. The present
Encyclical Letter is meant as a contribution to this most noble goal. Essentially pastoral
in character, it seeks to encourage the efforts of all who work for the cause of unity.
5. Together with all Christ's disciples, the Catholic Church bases upon God's plan her
ecumenical commitment to gather all Christians into unity. Indeed, "the Church is not a
reality closed in on herself. Rather, she is permanently open to missionary and
ecumenical endeavor, for she is sent to the world to announce and witness, to make
present and spread the mystery of communion which is essential to her, and to gather all
people and all things into Christ, so as to be for all an 'inseparable sacrament of unity' ."
Already in the Old Testament, the Prophet Ezekiel, referring to the situation of God's
People at that time, and using the simple sign of two broken sticks which are first divided
and then joined together, expressed the divine will to "gather from all sides" the members
of his scattered people. "I will be their God, and they shall be my people. Then the
nations will know that I the Lord sanctify Israel" (cf. 37:16-28). The Gospel of John, for
its part, considering the situation of the People of God at the time it was written, sees in
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Jesus' death the reason for the unity of God's children: "Jesus would die for the nation,
and not for the nation only, but to gather into one the children of God who are scattered
abroad" (11:51-52). Indeed, as the Letter to the Ephesians explains, Jesus "broke down
the dividing wall of hostility ... through the Cross, thereby bringing the hostility to an
end"; in place of what was divided he brought about unity (cf. 2:14-16).
9. Jesus himself, at the hour of his Passion, prayed "that they may all be one" (Jn 17:21).
This unity, which the Lord has bestowed on his Church and in which he wishes to
embrace all people, is not something added on, but stands at the very heart of Christ's
mission. Nor is it some secondary attribute of the community of his disciples. Rather, it
belongs to the very essence of this community. God wills the Church, because he wills
unity, and unity is an expression of the whole depth of his agape.
In effect, this unity bestowed by the Holy Spirit does not merely consist in the gathering
of people as a collection of individuals. It is a unity constituted by the bonds of the
profession of faith, the sacraments and hierarchical communion.10 The faithful are one
because, in the Spirit, they are in communion with the Son and, in him, share in his
communion with the Father: "Our fellowship is with the Father and with his Son Jesus
Christ" (1 Jn 1:3). For the Catholic Church, then, the communion of Christians is none
other than the manifestation in them of the grace by which God makes them sharers in his
own communion, which is his eternal life. Christ's words "that they may be one" are thus
his prayer to the Father that the Father's plan may be fully accomplished, in such a way
that everyone may clearly see "what is the plan of the mystery hidden for ages in God
who created all things" (Eph 3:9). To believe in Christ means to desire unity; to desire
unity means to desire the Church; to desire the Church means to desire the communion of
grace which corresponds to the Father's plan from all eternity. Such is the meaning of
Christ's prayer: "Ut unum sint".
28. If prayer is the "soul" of ecumenical renewal and of the yearning for unity, it is the
basis and support for everything the Council defines as "dialogue". This definition is
certainly not unrelated to today's personalist way of thinking. The capacity for "dialogue"
is rooted in the nature of the person and his dignity. As seen by philosophy, this approach
is linked to the Christian truth concerning man as expressed by the Council: man is in fact
"the only creature on earth which God willed for itself"; thus he cannot "fully find
himself except through a sincere gift of himself". Dialogue is an indispensable step along
the path towards human self-realization, the self-realization both of each individual and
of every human community. Although the concept of "dialogue" might appear to give
priority to the cognitive dimension (dia-logos), all dialogue implies a global, existential
dimension. It involves the human subject in his or her entirety; dialogue between
communities involves in a particular way the subjectivity of each.
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This truth about dialogue, so profoundly expressed by Pope Paul VI in his Encyclical
Ecclesiam Suam, was also taken up by the Council in its teaching and ecumenical
activity. Dialogue is not simply an exchange of ideas. In some way it is always an
"exchange of gifts".
29. For this reason, the Council's Decree on Ecumenism also emphasizes the importance
of "every effort to eliminate words, judgments, and actions which do not respond to the
condition of separated brethren with truth and fairness and so make mutual relations
between them more difficult". The Decree approaches the question from the standpoint of
the Catholic Church and refers to the criteria which she must apply in relation to other
Christians. In all this, however, reciprocity is required. To follow these criteria is a
commitment of each of the parties which desire to enter into dialogue and it is a
precondition for starting such dialogue. It is necessary to pass from antagonism and
conflict to a situation where each party recognizes the other as a partner. When
undertaking dialogue, each side must presuppose in the other a desire for reconciliation,
for unity in truth. For this to happen, any display of mutual opposition must disappear.
Only thus will dialogue help to overcome division and lead us closer to unity.
We ask the Holy Spirit to help us in a personal reflection on these passages from Ut
Unum Sint.
How might I work toward reconciliation in my own lifestarting from my family, parish
community, friends and neighbors?
When speaking about people of other Christian or religious traditions am I

respectful in my choice of words? Do I condemn, become angry or defensive?
How can I live the truth and then share the truth in love? Where do I need an
interior conversion in order to be a person of reconciliation?
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List the Pauline four wheels. How do these apply to ecumenism and interreligious dialogue?
1.
2.
3.
4.
"The truth cannot impose itself except by virtue of its own truth, as it wins over
the mind with both gentleness and power."[19] Tertio Millennio Adveniente
In Honor of Jesus Life

We will alternate excerpts from The Church in America with related prayers.
Reader 1:
Indeed, "the Word of God, by taking on our human nature in all things save sin (cf. Heb
4:15), manifests the Father's plan by revealing to each human person the way to realize
fully his or her vocation. Thus Jesus not only reconciles man with the Father, but also
reconciles man with himself and thus reveals his true nature".(16) With these words the
Synod Fathers, taking up the teaching of the Second Vatican Council, reaffirmed that
Jesus is the way which leads to full personal realization, culminating in the definitive and
eternal encounter with God. "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to
the Father, but by me" (Jn 14:6). God has predestined us "to be conformed to the image
of his Son, in order that he might be the first-born of many brethren" (Rom 8:29). Jesus
Christ is thus the definitive answer to the question of the meaning of life, and to those
fundamental questions which still trouble so many men and women on the
American continent.
Reader 2:
66. The Risen Christ, before his Ascension into heaven, sent the Apostles to preach the
Gospel to the whole world (cf. Mk 16:15) and conferred on them the powers needed to
carry out this mission. It is significant that, before giving his final missionary mandate,
Jesus should speak of the universal power he had received from the Father (cf. Mt 28:18).
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In effect, Christ passed on to the Apostles the mission which he had received from the
Father (cf. Jn 20:21), and in this way gave them a share in his powers. Yet "the lay
faithful too, precisely as members of the Church, have the vocation and mission of
proclaiming the Gospel: they are prepared for this work by the sacraments of Christian
initiation and by the gifts of the Holy Spirit". (239) They have been "in their own way
made sharers in the priestly, prophetic and kingly functions of Christ" (240).
Consequently, "the lay faithful, in virtue of their participation in the prophetic mission
of Christ, are fully part of this work of the Church" (241) and so should feel called and
encouraged to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom. Jesus' words: "You too, go into
the vineyard" (Mt 20:4), (242) must be seen as addressed not only to the Apostles but to
all who desire to be authentic disciples of the Lord.
Prayer Together
We thank you, Lord Jesus,
because the Gospel of the Father's love,
with which you came to save the world,
has been proclaimed far and wide in America
as a gift of the Holy Spirit
that fills us with gladness.
We thank you for the gift of your Life,
which you have given us by loving us to the end:
your Life makes us children of God,
brothers and sisters to each other.
Increase, O Lord, our faith and our love for you,
present in all the tabernacles of the continent.
Grant us to be faithful witnesses
to your Resurrection
for the younger generation of Americans
so that, in knowing you, they may follow you
and find in you their peace and joy.
Only then will they know that they
are brothers and sisters
of all God's children scattered
throughout the world.
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You who, in becoming man,

chose to belong to a human family,
teach families the virtues which filled with light
the family home of Nazareth.
May families always be united, as you and the Father are one,
and may they be living witnesses to love, justice and solidarity;
make them schools of respect, forgiveness and mutual help,
so that the world may believe;
help them to be the source of vocations to the priesthood and the
consecrated life, and all the other forms of firm Christian commitment.
Protect your Church and the Successor of Peter,
to whom you, Good Shepherd, have entrusted
the task of feeding your flock.
Grant that the Church in America (the Continent of North and South)
may flourish and grow richer in the fruits of holiness.
Teach us to love your Mother, Mary, as you loved her.
Give us strength to proclaim your word with courage
in the work of the new evangelization,
so that the world may know new hope.
Our Lady of Guadalupe, Mother of America,
pray for us! Mary, Queen of the Apostles, pray for us!*
-
Given at Mexico City, January 22, Pope John Paul II.

*Pauline invocation to Mary added
Reader 3:
67. Jesus Christ is the "good news" of salvation made known to people
yesterday, today and forever; but he is also the first and greatest
evangelizer. (247) The Church must make the crucified and risen Christ the center of her
pastoral concern and her evangelizing activity. "Everything planned in the Church must
have Christ and his Gospel as its starting-point". (248) Therefore, "the Church in America
must speak increasingly of Jesus Christ, the human face of God and the divine face of
man. It is this proclamation that truly makes an impact on people, awakens
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and transforms hearts, in a word, converts. Christ must be proclaimed with

joy and conviction, but above all by the witness of each one's life". (249)
Individual Christians will be able to carry out their mission effectively to the extent that
they make the life of the Son of God made man the perfect model for their work of
spreading the Gospel. The simplicity of his manner and his choices must be normative for
everyone in the work of evangelization. In this perspective, the poor will certainly be
considered among the first to be evangelized, following the example of Christ, who said
of himself: "The Spirit of the Lord . . . has anointed me to preach good news to the poor"
(Lk 4:18). (250)
Prayer Together: The Gospel of John, Chapter 17 - Alternate sides.
1 After Jesus said this, he looked toward heaven and prayed: "Father, the time has come.
Glorify your Son, that your Son may glorify you.
2 For you granted him authority over all people that he might give eternal life to all those
you have given him.
3 Now this is eternal life: that they may know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ,
whom you have sent.
4 I have brought you glory on earth by completing the work you gave me to do.
5 And now, Father, glorify me in your presence with the glory I had with you before the
world began.
6 I have revealed you to those whom you gave me out of the world. They were yours; you
gave them to me and they have obeyed your word.
7 Now they know that everything you have given me comes from you.
8 For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with
certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me.
9 I pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given me, for
they are yours.
10 All I have is yours, and all you have is mine. And glory has come to me through them.
11 I will remain in the world no longer, but they are still in the world, and I am coming to
you. Holy Father, protect them by the power of your name--the name you gave me--so
that they may be one as we are one.
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12 While I was with them, I protected them and kept them safe by that name you gave
me. None has been lost except the one doomed to destruction so that Scripture would be
fulfilled.
13 I am coming to you now, but I say these things while I am still in the world, so that
they may have the full measure of my joy within them.
14 I have given them your word and the world has hated them, for they are not of the
world any more than I am of the world.
15 My prayer is not that you take them out of the world but that you protect them from
the evil one.
16 They are not of the world, even as I am not of it.
17 Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.
18 As you sent me into the world, I have sent them into the world.
19 For them I sanctify myself, that they too may be truly sanctified.
20 My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those who will believe in me through
their message,
21 that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they
also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me.
22 I have given them the glory that you gave me, that they may be one as we are one:
23 I in them and you in me. May they be brought to complete unity to let the world know
that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me.
24 "Father, I want those you have given me to be with me where I am, and to see my
glory, the glory you have given me because you loved me before the creation of the
world.
25 Righteous Father, though the world does not know you, I know you, and they know
that you have sent me.
26 I have made you known to them, and will continue to make you known in order that
the love you have for me may be in them and that I myself may be in them."
Copyright 1973, 1978, 1984 by International Bible Society. All rights reserved.
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This prayer of Jesus is found among our Pauline prayers. It is also

known as the Priestly prayer of Jesus. Fr. Alberione encouraged
praying chapter 17 of Johns Gospel often for the intention of Christian
Unity. In 1960 Fr. Alberione founded the The Association Ut Unum Sint
with the aim of working side by side with the Ecumenical movement,
for the union of all Christians, on a person-to-person basis, in the spirit
of the Priestly prayer of Christ that they may be one.
Handbook for Pauline Cooperators, p. 60
Reader 4:
The basic task for which Jesus sends out his disciples is the proclamation of the Good
News, that is, evangelization (cf. Mk 16:15-18). Consequently, "to evangelize is the grace
and vocation proper to the Church, her most profound identity". (243) As I have said on
other occasions, the new and unique situation in which the world and the Church find
themselves at the threshold of the Third Millennium, and the urgent needs which result,
mean that the mission of evangelization today calls for a new program which can be
defined overall as a "new evangelization". (244)
Prayer Together:
Jesus Good Shepherd,
Who brought from heaven the fire of your love,
give us your heart.
Inflame us with the desire for the glory of God
and with a great love for our brothers and sisters.
Make us sharers in your mission.
Live in us so that we may radiate you in word, sacrifice and pastoral action,
in the example of a good life.
We offer you ourselves as sheep to become worthy of cooperating
in your pastoral mission in the Church.
Come divine Shepherd, guide us; may there soon be one flock and one Shepherd.
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Song: Bind Us Together

Closing Invocations: Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us
Break
Assemble again for the session. YouTube Video Song One Faith
Activity: (alternate activities follow there are three to choose from)
Activity I Option:
Searching for Unity
Bring to the meeting local Catholic Newspapers, LOsservatore Romano (Vatican weekly
paper), the local newspaper, Catholic magazines, or internet articles. Have enough
variety for each person in the group. Let each participant search through the various
publications for articles on ecumenical or inter-religious events. The search may also
include international and religious events that do not necessarily constitute inter-religious
or ecumenical dialogue for instance a religious holiday or an event.
Each person summarizes the articles they find. The articles are then used in a discussion
forum on:
The Association of Pauline Cooperators
The media versus our understanding of religious dialog.
Questions that may come up are Do I have a bias toward a religious group? Have I
stereotyped a nationality as a particular religion? Why and what has affected my
understanding of that religious faith?
Questions after the exercise:
What did you learn from this exercise?
How much did you know about the various denominations?
Share on the following statement:

This Church [of Jesus Christ], constituted as a society in the present world, subsists
and continues to exist in the Catholic Church, governed by Peter's successor and by
the bishops in communion with him. At the same time, the Catholic Church fully
224
recognizes that other Christians are justified by faith in baptism, are incorporated in
Christ and are to be regarded as brothers and sisters in the Lord (cf. LG 8; Unitatis
redintegratio, 3). Indeed, beyond the visible boundaries of the Catholic Church there
are elements and endowments, such as the written Word of God; the life of grace;
faith, hope and charity; as well as other interior gifts of the Holy Spirit and visible
elements (cf. UR, 3; LG 15). In his Encyclical Letter Ut Unum Sint Pope John Paul II
underlined the fact that there are ecclesial values among other Christians: "It is not
that beyond the boundaries of the Catholic community there is an ecclesial vacuum"
(cf. UUS 13; also 10).
What visible elements are common among Christians?
How do you propose working toward Christian unity as a Pauline Cooperator?
Activity II Option: Acting for Unity

Using improvisational methods of acting, the group may enter into an ecumenical
dialogue by trying to see faith from another denominations point of view.
Improvisational acting (Improv) is formed from scenes enacted by the players based
on suggestions from the audience. Improv is all about being in the "now" of the scene.
The players then weave the story to be told, often within the "rule set" of a game.
Improv I: Three Monologues
Three players tell a story from three different perspectives based on a theme. The players
line up, and one player comes forth and begins the story. When that player feels he or she
has told enough, he/she steps back. When the second player is done, he/she steps back
and so on.
Improv II: Celebrity Who
Two performers are sent out of the room. Another performer is the host of a Talk Show
and gets from the audience the names of two famous persons (living or dead), The two
225
performers then enter, not knowing who they are. The host interviews the guests, slowly
dropping hints as to their identities. The guests must correctly guess who they are. In this
case they may be two famous religious personalities from different denominations. The
talk show host asks them how their faith sustain(s) (ed) them through life.
Questions after the exercise:
What did you learn from this exercise?
How much did you know about the various denominations?
e cannot truly call on God, the Father of all, if we refuse to

treat in a brotherly way any man, created as he is in the
image of God. Man's relation to God the Father and his
relation to men his brothers are so linked together that Scripture says: "He
who does not love does not know God" (1 John 4, 8).
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References for Further Study

1. Required Reading: (also found online)
1. Tertio Millennio Adveniente (sections on unity).
3. Vatican II Document - Declaration on the Relation of the Church to
Non-Christian Religions - Nostra Aetate
4. United States Catholic Conference of Bishops USCCB Website:
http://www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachings/ecumenical-and-interreligious/
Accattoli, Luigi.
When a Pope Asks Forgiveness.
Pauline Books & Media.
Falardeau, Ernest, S.S.S. That All May Be One: Catholic Reflections on

Christian Unity.
John Paul II.
Paulist Press.
New Jersey: 2000
Ut Unum Sint - On Commitment to Ecumenism.
Living City Magazine Focolare, P.O. Box 496 New York, NY 10021 Living City magazine is a
Catholic journal of living for Christian Unity and Inter-religious dialog.
An early Christian profession of faith found in the Roman Catacombs.
Jesus Christ Son of God Savior
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Session 11
That They May be One (John 17:21).
Distance Program Worksheet: Theme: Ecumenism and Inter-Religious
Dialogue
The Apostle Paul, in his first letter to the church at Corinth, made it clear that division
and disharmony in the body of Christ was not acceptable. In fact, he expressed an
expectation of the church that sounds nearly unbelievable in todays standards: that you
all speak the same thing... that you be perfectly joined together in the same mind and
judgment (1 Cor. 1:10). A. Robbins, D. Min.
The movement for the restoration of communion among all Christians was fostered by
the grace of the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit who arouses the desire for unity among
Christ's disciples and for those actions that will enable everyone peacefully to reestablish
that unity, in the manner desired by Christ. Then the Gospel will be proclaimed more
effectively and the world be open to faith. Therefore, the Church should invoke the Holy
Spirit with ever greater insistence, imploring from him the grace of Christian unity ...
Unity, after all, is the gift of the Holy Spirit (Tertio Millennio Adveniente, 34).
The Pope said Catholics must acknowledge their "responsibility . . . for the evils of the
day," particularly "religious indifference, which causes many people today to live as if
God did not exist, or to be content with a vague religiosity. It must be asked," the Pope
states, "how many Christians really know and put into practice the principles of the
Churchs social doctrine." Finally, the Pope said Catholics must ask how well they have
accepted the Second Vatican Council, which he calls the "great gift of the Spirit to the
Church at the end of the second millennium." Erminia Santangelo
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Personal Reflections
What is the first thing in your life that would lead you to live the Apostle
Pauls teaching on unity?
What prayer would you write to invoke the Holy Spirit for our living in
unity with other Christian believers and people of faith from other
religious traditions?
After reading the summary of Erminia Santangelo on Pope John Pauls

desire for unity, write a brief reflection on how you think Paulines could
live what the Church proposes:
That they may be one, Father, as we are one (John 17:21).
To the Leader
During this session if the candidate for Pauline Cooperator has not yet written a letter of
request for the Promise you may plan some time for this either during
prayer or during the meeting that follows.
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Time of Preparation
Session 12:
Be Completely United With One Thought

and One Purpose (1 Cor. 1:10).
The theme for this session: Organization of the Association of Pauline Cooperators
Points to Cover:
-
The general government of the Association of Pauline Cooperators
The local government of the Association of Pauline Cooperators
The pastoral and parochial organization of the Pauline Cooperators
You will need:

-
A Bible
Suggested music: Touched by Love Daughters of St. Paul; A Little Love Daughters
of St. Paul; Heart of the Shepherd John Michael Talbot
Jesus, Master: Way, Truth and Life, have mercy on us.
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1. Jesus Master our True Teacher

From the Statutes of the Pauline Cooperator
It is necessary that the more active cooperators be brought together and form a real
union, to assure organized, lasting and useful activity..In the parishes where they work,
the cooperators will be like leaven in the social mass, fermenting all of society with a
Christian spirit.
-
A Reading from Pauls letter to the Corinthians, Chapter 1 verses 1-17

A Reading from the Gospel of John Chapter 14 verses 4-14
From the Writings of Fr. James Alberione Abundantes Divitiae

The Cooperators were envisioned in this way: as persons who understand the Pauline
Family and form with it a union of spirit and intentions. They embrace, in the manner it
is possible to them, its two principal purposes and give whatever contribution is possible.
Meanwhile the Pauline Family desires to promote their religious instructions, to guide
them in living an exemplary life, and to make them shares I the spiritual goods of the
Institute and in the mission (341).
This is a true friendship that consists in the exchange of goods.
The Cooperator want to imitate the Pauline Religious life: poverty by detaching
themselves from material goods in the evangelical sense; chastity, by observance of
purity according to their state in life; obedience, by respectful listening to those in
authority in the Church, in society, in the Pauline Family; taking part in the mission of the
Pauline Family; cooperating with prayer, works and offering (Cf. 342).
The Pauline Family confides to the Pauline Cooperators its plans, gives direction to
the works, shares in the sorrows and joys, and points out the path to holiness through the
magazine The Pauline Cooperator, conferences, monthly gatherings, and ongoing
formation. In addition the Pauline Family prays for the Cooperators and celebrates 2,400
Masses each year for their intentions, both for the living and the deceased (343).
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The Pauline Family strives to live perfectly the two precepts of charity in consecrated
life and in the apostolate. The Cooperatorsstrive to live the same two precepts in an
ever more perfect Christian life and by serving in the apostolate. All together they form a
union of persons who aim and help one another to promote The glory of God and peace
to humanity, according to the example of St. Paul. (344)
I feel the gravity before God and men of the mission entrusted to me by the Lord,
who, if he could have found a person more unworthy and incapable than I , would have
preferred that person. This, however, is for me and for everyone the guarantee that the
Lord willed and caused it to be done. It is like the artist who takes any brush whatsoever,
on that oosts a few cents and is blind to the work of art to be done, even if it is a beautiful
image of the Divine Master, Jesus Christ.
We are founded upon the Church. This conviction inspires security, joy and courage
(350). Fr. James Alberione
Make every effort to preserve the unity which has the Spirit as its origin and peace as
its binding force Saint Paul to the Ephesians 4:3.
From the Thoughts of Mother Thecla Merlo

If we want to build up the Pauline Institutes everyone must contribute their own brick.
Add on. Dont take away. Let us share the gifts God has given us.
If we make use of the many means the Pauline charism offers us we will be happy here
and above all we will be happy in eternal life.
When we are united in heart and soul, as Jesus invites us, we progress spiritually and the
Institute flourishes. We become saints through our mission in the two goals of the
congregation: to become holy and to bring others to holiness. We dont want to enter
heaven alone but in the company of many others.
Reflection
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2. Jesus Master is Our Only Way

Reflect on the many graces you have received. Glory be to the Father.
Leader aloud: In the book A Month With St. Paul, was written by Blessed Timothy
Giaccardo and Fr. James Alberione in 1952, we read that unity stems from charity:
Charity toward God has an external sign by which it may be recognized very easily:
ones love toward his neighbor. By this, said the Divine Master, will they know you
are my disciples; that you have love for one another. Paul says Who among you is
happy and I do not rejoice with him, and who among you weeps and I do not weep also?
Paul exhorts us to love one another in peace as though we form one family, or rather, one
body and one soul, bearing one anothers burdens (Chapter 5).
Suggested music: They Will Know We are Christians

Let us take a few minutes to reflect on how we want to continue growing in Christ in
order to become the Communication of God for our brothers and sisters
Poverty_____________________________________
The Spirit works in our weakness. - St. Paul
Mission _____________________________________
Your witness is inestimableMay this witness become present
everywhere and universally clear. - John Paul II
Study ________________________________________
Faith must be nourished with the study of everything that can raise
the mind to God. - Alberione
Prayer________________________________________
Prayer first of all, above all, the life of all. Alberione
(Refer to Session 9 for a detailed explanation)
233
Prayer
Along the way of holiness one can progress by

one, by five or even by ten, just as when
pedaling a bike. I have taught you how to
multiply the hours of study; now you must
learn how to increase the speed on the way
towards sanctity.
Study
Mission
Blessed Alberione on
the Secret of Success
Poverty
Optional song reflection: Because you are Chosen from Heart of the Shepherd
Theme: Trinitarian unity in a blessing of St. Paul
3. Jesus Master our Life
Pray together: The Secret of Success (The pact with our Lord)
Jesus Master, accept the pact that we present to you through the hands of Mary, Queen of
the Apostles, and of our father St. Paul.
Exchange sides:
We must correspond to your sublime will, arrive at the degree of holiness and
heavenly glory to which you have destined us, and perform the mission in a holy
manner
But we see that we are very weak, ignorant, and inadequate in every way: in
spirit, in knowledge, in the apostolate and in poverty.
You instead are the Way, and the Truth and the Life, the Resurrection, our one and
supreme good!
We trust in you alone who said: Whatever you ask the Father in my name, you
will receive it.
234
For our part, we promise and commit ourselves to seeking wholeheartedly in all
things, in life and in the mission, only and always, your glory and peace to all
peoples.
We trust that on your part, you will give us a good spirit, grace, knowledge, and
the means for doing good. According to your immense goodness and the needs of
our special vocation,
Multiply the fruits of our spiritual work, of our study, of our apostolate, and of our
poverty. We do not doubt you, but we fear our inconstancy and weakness.
Together: Therefore, good Master, through the intercession of Mary our Mother, extend
to us the mercy you used with the Apostle Paul so that, faithful in imitating our Father
here on earth, we may be his companions in the glory in heaven. Amen.
Closing Song: Go Light Your World from Touched by Love (Chris Rice)
1. Break
2. Study of the Statutes of the Pauline Cooperator Chapter VI and VII
Leader: For the meeting give everyone copies of the Statutes, Directory and Guidelines.29
According to the thought of the Founder, Fr. James Alberione, the cooperators are meant
to be welcomed as members of the Pauline Family, sharing concretely in its life through
the Promise. While it is not compulsory in order to collaborate with the apostolate of the
media, the Promise distinguishes the cooperators from others associating them with
the Pauline Family in a formal way and benefits both them and the Pauline Family.
It is not a vow, but a verbalized public commitment to try to live the Gospel in the spirit
of St. Paul and to evangelize through the media according to whatever opportunities are
available: prayer, action or offerings, to name a few.
29
The Statutes of 2012, the Directory of 2013 and the Guidelines of the Province.
235
By pronouncing the Promise you are officially accepted as a member of the Pauline
Family. As a Pauline you share in all of the prayers, sacrifices and apostolic initiatives of
the whole Family, wherever these are being carried out (7.0). You have a claim on the
spiritual and apostolic help that the Pauline Family can give you. You have the
opportunity to give your own prayer and spiritual growth a more define focus, a Pauline
color, as the Founder used to say. As a sign of ecclesiastical support the Church grants a
plenary indulgence to the cooperator on significant designated days (7.1). In addition,
six Masses are offered daily in Rome for the cooperators (7.2). Above all, not only is your
name written in heaven, as Jesus promise to those who evangelize, but after death you
benefit from the continued prayers of the Pauline Family (7.4).
The Promised Cooperator takes note of upcoming Pauline Feast Days and may contact
a local Pauline Community asking them to join in the novena and celebration of the feast.
Feast Day Celebrations: (7.1) the patronal feast of the cooperators is that of St. Paul the
Apostle, celebrated in the Pauline Family on June 30th.
Other major Pauline Feasts are:
-
The Feast of Jesus the Divine Master, Way, Truth, Life (last Sunday in October)
The Feast of Mary, Queen of Apostles (the Saturday after the Ascension)
The Feast of St. Paul the Apostle (June 30)
The Holy See grants all Pauline Cooperators duly enrolled in the Association the
opportunity to gain the plenary indulgence on the following feast days:
- Feast of Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life;
- Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ;
- Feast of Mary, Queen of Apostles;
- Feast of the Immaculate Conception;
- Feast of the Assumption;
- Feast of St. Joseph, Husband of Mary
236
Review the Spiritual Commitments of the Pauline Cooperator Statutes 3.0
Review the Forms of Collaboration Statutes 4.0 ff
Review and Discuss the Organization of the Pauline Cooperators - Statutes V
V. Organization of the Association of Pauline Cooperators

20. On the general level, the structure of the Association of Pauline Cooperators is
subdivided as follows:
20.1) The General Board of Directors is composed of the Superiors General of the
Society of St. Paul, the Daughters of St. Paul, the Pious Disciples of the Divine Master,
the Sisters of Jesus the Good Shepherd (Pastorelle Sisters), and the Queen of Apostles
Institute. It is the duty of the General Board of Directors to set down directives
concerning the whole Association of Pauline Cooperators, prepare or update its Statutes,
ensure that the Directory of each Institute is in harmony with the Statute, provide basic
guidelines for the formation of the Associations members, and convoke international
assemblies, choosing the theme, fixing the venue and taking care of its organization.
20.2) The General Executive Board is composed of delegates appointed by the Superiors
General. These delegates can include several Cooperators chosen by the General Board of
Directors at the recommendation of the National Board of Directors.
21. On the national level, the structure of the Association of Pauline Cooperators is
subdivided as follows:
21.1) The National Board of Directors is composed of the circumscription superiors of
the Society of St. Paul, the Daughters of St. Paul, the Pious Disciples of the Divine
Master, the Sisters of Jesus the Good Shepherd (Pastorelle Sisters), and the Queen of
Apostles Institute present in the country. The National Board of Directors is presided over
by turn for a three year period by one of the superiors that compose it. The Board is to
meet at least once a year to inform its members about what was done, coordinate
particular initiatives of the Pauline Family on the national level, convoke elective
237
assemblies, and evaluate formation itineraries and the progress of the Cooperators in the
individual countries.
21.2) The National Executive Board is an organism composed of the delegates of the
superiors of the respective Institutions present in the nation. Some Cooperators can be
members of the Board. They are chosen by the National Board of Directors and hold this
office for a three-year period.
22. International and National General Assemblies of the Pauline Cooperators can be
held. These are to be convoked by the General Board of Directors or by the National
Board of Directors (cf. 20.1).
238
LETTER REQUESTING PERMISSION TO PRONOUNCE THE

PROMISE OF THE PAULINE COOPERATOR
To be included in the letter:

The candidates understanding of the Pauline Charism (Spirit and Mission)
The reason why the candidate feels called to join the Pauline Family as a Pauline
Cooperator
Ways that the candidate can envision participating in the charism and mission of
the Pauline Family.
Formal request to Pronounce the Promise
The candidates name and address
An opening salutation to the acting Provincial of the Daughters of St Paul
The original letter is mailed to the National Office along with recommendations
from the local community of Daughters of St Paul and the Regional Coordinator.
Associations of Pauline Cooperators

50 St. Pauls Ave,
Boston, MA 02130
Congratulations!
You have completed the Formation Sessions!
239

Pauline Cooperator Formation Manual

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My Co-Workers

with Distance Learning Sessions

This Manual of Formation is

Dedicated to Blessed James Alberione, S.S.P.

Sr. Margaret Charles Kerry, fsp

Daughters of St. Paul, United States Province

First edition, 1999. Second edition 2010. Third edition 2012.

General Introduction for Distance Learners

Using suggested media

ASSOCIATION OF PAULINE COOPERATORS

My Co-Workers in the Gospel (Phil. 1: 5)

The discernment process in view of joining the Pauline Cooperators

You will need

1. Reflection on the Word of God (Jesus Truth)

The opening invocation

Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life,

An appropriate hymn is sung or played. Revelation Song by Kari Jobe

Fr. Alberione writes: Following of Christ the Master

Prayer after Reading Sacred Scripture

Time Allotted: 10 minutes

Introduction: Encounter Blessed Alberione & Paul Today

Conclusion Questions are welcome.

Announce the date, time and location of the next meeting.

References for further study

Prayer to St. Paul by Blessed Pope John Paul II

ASSOCIATION OF PAULINE COOPERATORS

My Co-Workers in the Gospel

ASSOCIATION OF PAULINE COOPERATORS

To love is to fulfill the law (Rm. 13:8)

An invitation to reflect on the universal call to holiness

The call to holiness in the Pauline Charism

Fr. Alberiones vision of the Pauline Cooperators

You will need

Reflection on the Word of God (Jesus Truth)

Jesus Master, Way, Truth and Life,

Sing or play an appropriate hymn. Lord I Give You My Heart

A reading from the Handbook for Pauline Cooperators.

A Reading from the Gospel of Matthew 5:1-12

Mother Thecla writes in her conferences: (volume III)

Time allotted: 10 minutes

Break (10 minutes)

Copy the following page and give it to everyone to fill out.

Your full name _______________________________________________________

Your first name_______________________________________________________

The name of a famous person ____________________________________________

A length of time ( ex: one minute, three days, etc.)____________________________

The name of a person you admire__________________________________________

Your first name________________________________________________________

A vice (ex: impatience, ingratitude, nail biting, etc.)___________________________

A virtue (ex: patience, humility, doing the dishes, etc.)_________________________

Your first name________________________________________________________

A place or an activity (beaches, Washington, Mars, roller-blading, etc.)____________

A number (any number, as large or small as you decide)________________________

Beatification Game Answer Sheet

Announce the date, time and location of the next meeting.

References for further study:

Handbook for Pauline Cooperators, pgs. 23-27

Blessed James Alberione serving a Pauline friend.

ASSOCIATION OF PAULINE COOPERATORS

ASSOCIATION OF PAULINE COOPERATORS

Be Persevering in Your Prayers (Col. 4:2)

Prayer fonts of the Word and the Eucharist

You will need