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Legion HANDBOOK D10944_1 26/02/2014 15:53 Page 328

328 “THE GREATEST OF THESE IS LOVE” CHAPTER 41
2. Within its own ranks there should be an unaffected
simplic ity and sincere mutual charity among the members, all
distinctions being non-existent. If love is due to those whom
the legionary serves, it is no less due to one’s fellow-members.
The spirit of distinc tion is evidence of the absence of the first
qualification for member ship, which is the spirit of love. The
whole idea and spirit of the Legion is one of intense charity
and sympathy, which before radiating its warmth outside must
first of all burn brightly and strongly on the domestic hearth
of the Legion itself. “By this everyone will know you are my
disciples, if you have love for one another.” (Jn 13:35)
Charity practised in its ranks will soon be practised at large.
Divisions removed by membership are on the way to being
removed from people outside.

3. Towards other organisations, whose aims are compatible
with the Church’s mission, there should be a spirit of readiness
to give co-operation and assistance whenever possible. Not all
Catholics can be brought into the Legion’s own ranks, for its
requirements are far from easy. However, all should be
encouraged to participate in some way in the work of the
Church. Legionaries can further this through their apostolate
and personal contacts. It should be noted, however, that
whatever co-operation is given should not place additional
burdens on legionaries to the detriment of their own aposto -
late. It is important, also, that there be discernment in regard to
the degree and type of assistance which is given and to whom
it is given. In this connection, reference should also be made to
the sections ‘Control of the work by the Praesidium’ (ch 39, no.
6) and ‘The intimate nature of the legionary work must be
safeguarded’ (ch. 39, no. 8).

4. Towards the Pastors of the Church there should be
shown the filial love due to them as spiritual fathers and
shepherds. Legion aries should share their anxieties and help
them by prayer and, as far as possible, by active work so that
they may be better able to over come difficulties and carry out
their duties with greater success.
Since pastors of the Church have the God-given role of
com muni ca ting divine truth and graces of the sacraments, it
should be the legionaries’ concern to keep people in touch