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Legion HANDBOOK D10944_1 26/02/2014 15:53 Page 176

176 FUNCTIONS CHAPTER 30
life was attuned to this basic note of joy. With imperturbable
calmness, and cheerfulness of mind he sang to himself and to God
songs of joy in his heart. His ceaseless endeavour was to keep himself
interiorly and exteriorly in a joyous mood. In the intimate circle of
his brothers he likewise knew how to sound the pure key-note of
joyfulness, and to make it swell to such full harmony that they felt
themselves raised to an almost heavenly atmosphere. The same joyful
note pervaded the converse of the Saint with his fellow-men. Even his
sermons in spite of their burden of penance became hymns of
gladness, and his mere appearance was an occasion of festive joy for
all classes of people.” (Felder: The Ideals of St. Francis of Assisi)

3. AN OUTDOOR FUNCTION
The holding of this function dates back to the earliest days
of the Legion. It is not obligatory, but it is recommended. It
may take the form of an excursion, pilgrimage, or outdoor
function. As deter mined by the Curia, this may be either a
Curia or a praesidium function. In the latter event, two or
more praesidia may combine for the function.

4. THE PRAESIDIUM FUNCTION
It is strongly recommended that each praesidium will hold
a social function about the feast of the Nativity of Our Lady.
In centres where there are many praesidia, several praesidia
may, if they desire, combine to hold such a festival.
Suitable persons, who are not legionaries, may be invited to
attend, with a view to inducing them to undertake member -
ship.
It is recommended that the full Legion prayers (including
the rosary) be said, divided into three parts as at a praesidium
meeting. The time thus taken from the social part of the
evening does not amount to many minutes, but this tribute
to Our Lady will be more than repaid by the enhanced success
of the function. The Queen of the Legion is the “Cause of Our
Joy,” and she will reply by making the occasion one of special
happiness.
Interspersed among the musical items should be at least
one short Legion talk. All will, thereby, learn a little more
about the Legion, and incidentally the programme will be
diversi fied. Mere entertainment tends to pall.