One day a man had a dream: Oh! If only a Congregation of Priests could be formed whose program was the same as the Heart of Jesus: absolute dedication and obedience, perfect simplicity, unalterable gentleness! These priests would be a veritable flying camp of elite soldiers, ready to rush at the first sign wherever they are called, even and especially to the most difficult ministries, those rejected by others!
For him, it all boiled down to a "here I am" said out of love, a concrete and trusting life choice.
His name was Michel Garicoïts, and he lived in the 19th century in a Marian shrine in southern France. His spiritual insight gave rise to the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Betharram. Even today, his Congregation rests on three pillars:
- a spiritual life rooted in union with Christ, totally offered to the Father, totally offered to men;
- a community life that bears witness to the radiant goodness and humble audacity of the "first act of the Sacred Heart: Here I am!"
- an apostolic life that seeks to respond to the calls of the Church and of men.
Since 1835, the small community has spread its branches throughout the world. It has become an international family, present on four continents. The 330 religious, priests, and brothers have recently been joined by lay people who work alongside the religious and "drink from the same source."
Chom Thong Church - Thailand
Wherever they are present, the Betharramites strive to foster the human and spiritual growth of those to whom they are sent. Religious or lay, they strive to place their faith, skills, and energy at the service of others, in the spirit of the Gospel, and in various fields.
- education and training of young people;
- animation of parishes, chaplaincies, places of welcome and spirituality;
- support for human development and promotion projects.
Whatever their activity, their reason for being is one: to share with others the joy of following Christ in a "Here I am, without delay, without calculations, without regrets, for love!"