Fr. Mark Francis, CSV, Superior General of the Clerics of St. Viator, preached the annual community retreat for several professed Viatorians who gathered at the Viatorian Province Center in Arlington Heights, IL June 6-10, 2010.  During the retreat, entitled “Befriending our Founder:  Getting to Know and Appreciate Louis Querbes”, Fr. Francis prepared reflections on the various stages of Fr. Querbes’ life.  He encouraged the retreatants to think of their own faith journey in light of the journey of Fr. Querbes.

Included in his reflections was material from his two latest circulars: Louis Querbes and the Second Vatican Council; The Challenge of Globalization and the Viatorian Community.  Fr. Francis used the occasion of the Year of Fr. Querbes (September 1, 2009-September 1, 2010), which marks the 150th anniversary of the death of Fr. Querbes, to draw parallels between Fr. Querbes and the teachings of Vatican II, especially in regards to the role of the laity.  Emphasizing the international dimension of the congregation, he also urged those attending the retreat to reflect on their role as a religious in a globalized world.

Fr. Francis’ circulars can be read by clicking the links below.

Louis Querbes and the Second Vatican Council

The Challange of Globalization and the Viatorian Community