Basilian Fathers Celebrate their Bicentennial

The Basilians’ founders’ decision to formalize their commitment to Catholic education and community life was based on necessity, a response to the increasingly secularized climate of post-revolution France.

In 1822, on November 21, the Feast of the Presentation, the 10 founders came together to form an Association of Priests. The times didn’t allow for reflection on their vision for the future of this Association. Instead, they were simply acting on how they thought best to ensure their charism, their work in education and evangelization, in the small town of Annonay, France endured.

The Basilian charism has endured. For 200 years, Basilians have continued their founders’ work, each Basilian offering his gift for education and evangelization in his own distinct style. Their ability to adapt to the changing times has allowed the Congregation to flourish. The Basilians’ ministry has expanded to five countries on three continents, founding schools and staffing parishes along the way.

Today, the Basilian charism expands to all those who share in their ministry. “Our founders did not see themselves as the owners, but rather the workers in the vineyard. It compels Basilians to recognize our lay associates, staff, parishioners, students, and alumni as fellow caretakers of the Basilian charism, with the Holy Spirit as the sole proprietor,” said Father Kevin Storey, CSB, superior general of the Congregation.

The past year has been a time for Basilians to gather and thank God for the gifts He has bestowed on the community. Bicentennial celebrations culminated this weekend with gatherings taking place in local Basilian houses and special Masses held at Basilian parishes and schools. These celebrations were as diverse as the Congregation itself.

Check out photos from across the community.

St. Basil’s Church, Toronto, Ontario