TRUE MISSIONARIES

The way missionaries worked in the early times is quite different from the way they do things today. 

St. Augustine, a Benedictine monk and missionary to England, did it this way: He brought with him some companions and, in the mission land, reproduced the apostolic way of life of the early Church.

They practiced unceasing prayer, vigil and fasting. They preached the Word of Life to whomever they could. They paid no attention to worldly things, receiving from those whom they taught only such provisions as seemed necessary.

They themselves practiced everything they preached, and they were willing to endure any hardships and even to die for the truth they proclaimed.

And so it is narrated that very soon many people came to believe and were baptized, admiring the simplicity of their innocent lives and the sweetness of their heavenly teaching.

The king of England also was captivated by the holy men's pure lives and gracious promises, confirmed by many miracles. He believed and was baptized.

The rest began to flock everyday to hear the Word forsaking pagan rites and joined themselves through belief to the unity of the holy Catholic Church. 

(03-03-03)