On 15th September, the Universal Church commemorates the feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, while the Congregation of Holy Cross celebrates its patronal feast. Father Anthony Basile Moreau, the founder of the Holy Cross Congregation, was born in 1799 in a small village within the diocese of Le Mans, France. He was the ninth of fourteen children, though sadly, three of his siblings passed away in infancy. His father, a diligent wine merchant, worked tirelessly to support his large family. Despite the difficulties of the time—marked by Enlightenment thinkers challenging the monarchy and the Church—his parents instilled in their children a profound love for the Catholic faith. The seed of faith that was sown and nurtured in him bore fruits abundantly. After completing his formal education, he embarked on a ministry as an educator and teacher.
In 1837, Father Moreau established the Congregation of Holy Cross in Sainte-Croix, France. Twenty years later, in 1857, the Holy See officially recognised this group as a religious congregation, naming it the Congregation of Holy Cross. The village Church in Sainte-Croix was dedicated to Our Lady of Sorrows, which led Blessed Moreau to select her as the patroness of the Congregation. As the Congregation of Holy Cross celebrates its patronal feast day, it is a fitting moment to reflect on several examples of Blessed Moreau's governance style and principles from the past.
Concept of synodality
In just a few days, a historic synodal gathering will take place in Rome, bringing together leaders from diverse backgrounds to discuss and prepare a synodal document for the Church. The concept of synodality has deep roots in the early Church, with significant development during the First Vatican Council (1869-1870), which laid the foundational principles. However, it was during the Second Vatican Council (1962-1965) that synodality truly gained momentum, highlighting the importance of collegiality and consultation within the Church.
In 2021, a multi-layered synodal process began, involving various stages of discussion and discernment. This process led to the first session of the Vatican Assembly on Synodality in Rome in October 2023. The next worldwide Synod of Bishops is scheduled to take place in Rome from October 2 to October 27, 2024. This session will focus on the theme of ‘Synodality’ and aims to enhance the Church’s participation, communion, and mission. As we anticipate this important document on Synodality, it is worth reflecting on how Blessed Moreau implemented these principles, perhaps unknowingly, long before the Church’s current focus on synodality.
Blessed Moreau and the principles of Synodality
In many respects, Blessed Moreau can be seen as a precursor of the synodal path that the modern Church is now emphasising globally. From its founding, its inception, the Congregation's model of governance embodied the principles of synodality. In his circular letter, (January 5, 1844), The three core dimensions of synodality—communion, participation, and mission—are fundamental to the Church’s approach today. Although these dimensions are interrelated rather than hierarchical, each one enhances and directs the others. Did Blessed Moreau, in fact, ahead of his time, effectively implement these three essential dimensions of synodality?
Communion
The first principle of Synodality is Communion. The church tells us that God gathers together as diverse peoples of one faith. It furthers states,’ the communion we share finds its deepest root in the love and unity of the trinity. Blessed Moreau envisioned this principle as central to the Congregation of Holy Cross, which brought together priests, brothers, and sisters. In every ministry center, these three communities—brothers, priests, and sisters—worked collaboratively, embodying a shared mission that fostered mutual support and teamwork. These three establishments though separated by dwelling places, and separate rules, will always be united among themselves like the Holy Family. This collective effort became a cornerstone of the Congregation. Blessed Moreau emphasised the importance of unity in mind and heart among the members, referring to it as a “spirit of union.” Motivating these diverse communities to live and work together as one united family, similar to the Holy Family of Nazareth, was a significant challenge. He urged his members to operate with the strength, unity, and understanding that comes from mutual cooperation and shared resources.
Moreau believed that true communion involved not just spiritual solidarity but also practical collaboration. He encouraged listening, dialogue, and shared responsibility among the communities. His approach to leadership was participatory, inviting members to contribute to decision-making and work together toward common goals. This collaborative spirit continues to inspire contemporary discussions on embodying the principles of synodality. Blessed Moreau’s vision for community life and a shared mission reflects a crucial aspect of ecclesial communion, aligning closely with the Church’s modern understanding of unity and collaboration. His forward-thinking approach to governance within the Congregation of Holy Cross demonstrates that he was ahead of his time in embracing the synodal way of leadership.
Participation
The second principle of Synodality is Participation, which involves the engagement of all members of the Church—laity, consecrated persons, and the ordained. It requires honest dialogue and respectful listening among all participants. Blessed Moreau exemplified this principle by fostering an environment where members could actively engage and collaborate. He consistently encouraged participation in decision-making processes and promoted a shared vision within the Congregation. For example, in his circular letter, Blessed Moreau emphasised that "community work" was the collective responsibility of all members, reflecting a shared sense of solidarity. This approach aligns with the synodal understanding that values the active involvement of everyone in the Church. He introduced a collegial structure within his community, delegating decision-making authority at every level—a progressive move that was uncommon in the Church of his era.
Mission
The third principle is Mission. The Church’s foundational document on synodality emphasises that the Church exists to evangelise and must not be self-centered. Its mission is to bear witness to God’s love throughout the human family, especially reaching out to those on the spiritual, social,economic, political, geographical, and existential peripheries. Blessed Moreau echoed this vision, describing Holy Cross as a mighty tree that continually grows and extends its branches, nourished by the same life-giving sap (Circular Letter, June 15, 1854). He urged his members to be adaptable and ready to go anywhere to spread God’s love on earth. By the time he made this prophecy, the Congregation had already expanded its reach across four continents. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he prioritised sending missionaries to establish new centers that addressed the needs of those at the peripheries. In October 2024, Holy Cross will further its global mission by establishing two new centers in Papua New Guinea. Today, the congregation’s ministries span a wide range, including schools, colleges, universities, parishes, orphanages, and more.
