Fundamental Missionary Attitudes

We consider our missionary vocation as a call and a gift of the Spirit of God, who distributes to each as he wills (1 Cor 12:11; AG 23). We must not shut ourselves off from this call of God (AG 24).

Following the example of Jesus Christ we are prepared to serve, in friendship and love, the people to whom we have been sent. In this way we give witness to the unifying strength of the Gospel.

We are bold in announcing the mystery of Christ and are not ashamed of the folly of the cross. We prepare the way of the Lord by a life according to the Gospel in patience, long-suffering, kindness and sincere love (AG 24).

It is the task of all to take active part in the life of the Church and society and be open to the problems of the times. However, we consider it also our duty to bring the mission concern to the local Church and society. We cooperate with those who dedicate themselves to the same task (AG 25).

Jesus Christ wanted his disciples to be one (Jn 17:21ff). Therefore we are obliged, as much as possible, to promote unity in faith and love among Christians.

We endeavour to be open to the action of the Spirit, we examine our existing methods of missionary service against the needs of the local Church and, following the example of Abbot Francis Pfanner, we dare to pursue new ways.

Our service requires reverence for the spiritual and cultural values of peoples. We offer therefore the Gospel as a salvific gift which acknowledges, promotes and perfects what is good in their traditions.

Loneliness, fatigue and fruitless labour remind us that we are following Christ crucified and must proclaim the message of the cross. Thus we will not let difficulties discourage us, but - like Abbot Francis Pfanner - we will persevere in our vocation.

Prayer and the Eucharist are the foundation of our labour, for ultimately it is God who makes his kingdom come on earth, not our effort (AG 42).