The Way of the Saints

I am always amazed by the spirit of selflessness and love that is exemplified by those holy women and men who have gone before us. There is no shortage of inspiring stories! Our Christian saints are not untouchable statues on a pedestal, but real flesh-and-blood examples of how works of faith, solidarity, and kindness are stronger than hatred, division, and competition.

Br. Flavian with a member of the Kalidaha Fishing Project

Earlier this morning, I re-discovered the story of Brother Flavian Laplante, CSC. Brother Flavian was a Holy Cross brother who ministered to the poor and marginalized minorities in Bangladesh beginning in the 1930's. During the Japanese air raids on Chittagong in 1942 and during subsequent periods of illness and starvation, Brother Flavian ministered to the needs of the local people affected by the war. Brother Flavian cared especially for the Hindu minority in that area.

After the war, Brother Flavian ensured that the Bengali people received new fishing boats after theirs had been commandeered by the military. This Holy Cross brother also helped the fishermen get motors for their boats and tried to ease the burden of poverty for them and their families. Brother Flavian helped establish a school, an orphanage, and a women's resource center. All people in Bangladesh - Muslim, Hindu, and Christian - experienced the zeal, the passion, and the selfless love of this good man.

Near the end of his life, Brother Flavian began to live as a hermit. Beginning in 1978, he established an "ashram" where he resided. At this site, he encouraged a Marian pilgrimage. This tradition continues today. There, at the ashram, Brother Flavian lived in utter simplicity and in deep prayer, though he always welcomed guests who sought the wisdom of this holy man. Brother Flavian died in 1981 at the age of seventy-four.

Servant of God Flavian Laplante

In 2009, Brother Flavian was recognized as "Servant of God" by the Catholic Church. His life and work will continue to be explored by the Church until one day he is officially declared "Saint " by the Church.

I am inspired by this saintly man. He wasn't perfect nor was the world around him perfect. However, Brother Flavian was able to respond to the needs and crises of his time with generosity, courage, and love. In our own time, we are being called to respond with the gift of our lives.

Like Brother Flavian, we are being summoned to care for the weak, the vulnerable, and the "other." We are called to work alongside others, never considering ourselves better or superior. When we take upon ourselves the selfless spirit of Christ, just as Brother Flavian did, we will be able to live as "brother" and "sister" to all of humanity. This is the way of Jesus Christ. This is the way of the saints.