Page 298 - 聖母軍團員手冊（英文版，2014年5月-2022年1月更新版）

Legion HANDBOOK D10944_1 26/02/2014 15:53 Page 293

CHAPTER 39 CARDINAL POINTS OF THE LEGION APOSTOLATE 293
Legionaries must not, however, be indifferent to the cases
of poverty and want which they will inevitably find in their
visitation, and they should bring them to the notice of other
organisations suited to the type of need which is in question.
But should all efforts by the Legion fail to secure the desired
help, the Legion is not itself to step into the gap. That is not
its work, and it is impossible to conceive that in any modern
community no other individuals or agency can be found
which will look to the relief of a deserving case.
“Unquestionably, the pity which we show to the poor by
relieving their needs is highly commended by God. But who
will deny that a far higher place is held by that zeal and effort
which applies itself to the work of instruction and persuasion,
and thereby bestows on souls not the passing benefits of earth
but the goods that last forever.” (AN)
As many instances have shown that this rule can be
interpreted too narrowly, it is necessary to state that works of
service do not constitute material relief. On the contrary they
are recommended. They turn aside the accusation that
legionaries confine themselves to talking religion and are
indifferent about people’s needs. Legionaries should prove the
sincerity of their words by pouring out their love and service
in every permitted form.

11. THE COLLECTING OF MONEY
Much in the same category as relief-giving, and coming
under the same ban, would lie the regular utilisation of the
legionary visitation for the purpose of collecting money.
Such might secure the money, but never the atmosphere
for the accomplishment of spiritual good and would represent
a supreme example of the policy known as “penny-wise,
pound foolish.”

12. NO POLITICS IN THE LEGION
No legionary body shall allow its influence or its premises
to be used for any political purpose or to aid any political
party.