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Society of the Patricians Legion of Mary Fairfax Comitium. February 2013. Society of the Patricians. The term “Patricians” is a term derived from ancient Rome. Patricians were the upper of three in grades of the ancient society; that is, Patricians, Plebes, Slaves
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Society of the PatriciansLegion of MaryFairfax Comitium February 2013
Society of the Patricians • The term “Patricians” is a term derived from ancient Rome. Patricians were the upper of three in grades of the ancient society; that is, Patricians, Plebes, Slaves • Ancient Patricians were full of love for their country and of responsibility for its’ welfare • The Legion of Mary started the Society of the Patricians in 1955 Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians February 2013
Society of the Patricians • “It is said that those outside the church will not listen. But the real truth is that Catholics will not speak.” – Cardinal Suenens • Why the silence: • Many Catholics are excessively conscious of the defects of their religious knowledge • Even where knowledge is substantial, the answers are separate, like the answers in the catechism. The mind has not joined them properly together • In many instances, there is such ignorance that faith is insufficient knowledge to rest upon. This has but to meet an irreligious environment to suffer disintegration Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians February 2013
Society of the Patricians • Patricians meets monthly and is managed by the Legion under the guidance of their spiritual director • It is not the intent to have professional speakers, teachers or priests be the primary speakers but the Catholic laity • The atmosphere is a friendly one; encouraging and appreciative • A family spirit is established in which all, even the “smallest speaker” are encouraged to participate Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians February 2013
Society of the Patricians • Structure of the Meeting: • A priest or religious in attendance will begin with the Patricians prayer • A talk, strictly limited to 15 minutes begins • The talk is followed by group discussion • Approximately one hour after the start of the meeting, discussion is suspended and a financial statement is given • Light refreshments are always provided; this break will last 15 minutes Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians February 2013
Society of the Patricians • Structure of the Meeting (continued): • The meeting resumes with a talk by the Spiritual Director for 15 minutes • Discussion continues until 5 minutes before the end of the meeting • Subject and speaker for the next meeting are selected • Meeting ends with prayer Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians February 2013
Society of the Patricians 2013 Goal By October 31, 2013, establish a Patricians group in every parish with the Legion. Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians February 2013
Society of the Patricians Next Steps: Each praesidium without a Patricians group request approval from their pastor. Provide the pastor with information as to why it is beneficial to have a Patricians group in the parish (Comitium will prepare a fact sheet). For parishes with multiple praesidia, the praesidia should work together to establish a single group. For parishes that already have a Patricians group, you can help other parishes get started or establish a second group. Request support from the Comitium officers if needed. Report on the status at each Comitium meeting. We have until October 31, but we should start early. Legion of Mary: Society of the Patricians February 2013