P. Sylvester Heereman, LC

In the spring of 2017, the Legion of Christ published its first “Ratio Institutionis.” It is a guide on the life and formation of a Legionary of Christ. Father Sylvester Heereman, LC, worked with the team that developed the “Ratio.” Below, Father responds to an interview where he offers an analysis of the document and how it will be used in the Congregation, along with all the implications also present in Regnum Christi.

What is the goal of the “Ratio Institutionis”?

This document shows what a Legionary should be like, from the start of his discernment process until his passing, how he is formed, and how he lives the charism in its fullness.

How is the document organized?

It consists of two main parts. The first describes the purpose of formation and the general means to achieve this: the identity and lifestyle of a Legionary priest. The second part focuses on the stages of formation.

According to the document, what is the identity of a Legionary?

First, a Legionary is primarily called to:

• Passionately love Jesus Christ
• Participate in Christ’s mission, according to his own charism
• Be a priest and religious

If someone develops a clear sense of identification according to the Heart of Christ, they will enjoy certain fruits:

• Inner peace
• Joy
• Inner freedom
• Determination

This is more than mere rules and disciplines…

Indeed. First, I would like to emphasize that formation is not something that happens only in the seminary and nothing else. No, rather it is something that continues throughout the years in the life of each Legionary of Christ.

The goal of formation is to have a clear sense of identity, so that one knows who he is and is happy to be who he is. It’s not just about acquiring knowledge or learning how to behave.

Doesn’t formation also have to do with behavior?

Yes, also, but not primarily and not as the main means. Formation is not just about “hammering” or simple repetitions. Good behavior, a good living of the charism, is not the consequence of following rules. Good behavior springs from within, going from the internal to the external, and results from personal conviction. For each Legionary of Christ, a clear and essential understanding of who he is and to what he is called is necessary. And this derives from a personal decision.

For those called to this vocation, there is no conflict between Legionary identity and personal identity. A Legionary can only be himself if he is completely a Legionary, because that is what God calls him to. Conversely, only if I am fully myself can I be fully a Legionary. Formation does not eliminate personality; it springs from within the person.

The Legion of Christ revised its Constitutions as part of the renewal. In fact, they have significant differences. Did something similar happen with the “Ratio”?

No, because this is our first “Ratio,” and as such, it is not a re-elaboration or modernization of a pre-existing document. It certainly takes into account many valid elements of our formative tradition.

What is the most significant change in seminary life from your point of view?

The essential elements remain: Prayer, study, apostolate, disciplined and demanding community life. But they are focused on personal responsibility, conviction, and generally are less regulated, or perhaps I could say less strictly controlled. There is more flexibility to accommodate personal convictions and decisions. Not to make things easier or more pleasant, but to build on a solid foundation and to reap more lasting fruits.

What can you tell us about discernment?

There are changes in vocational discernment that some might consider significant, and I believe they reflect our maturation as a Congregation and, of course, our process of renewal. First, it is clear that discernment is a personal decision. The superior and spiritual director are there to support and guide, but not to decide for the individual. The stages of formation/discernment are clearer, and we ensure that the person is in each stage for at least two full years so he can discern, and his superiors can be confident that he is ready to move forward. Also, perpetual vows can be made after the religious has completed his apostolic practices so he has a clear idea of what his life as a Legionary will be like, rather than making perpetual profession in a merely seminary environment.

When does this document start to apply in the life of a Legionary?

From day one. In fact, I just gave a lecture on this to young people in Cheshire.

Did the Vatican approve this document?

The Vatican approved our new Constitutions published in 2014 (also translated into English), but that was not necessary for the “Ratio,” which is considered a document of practical application, albeit with a spiritual style and content. Each Congregation can approve its own “Ratio.” That said, we have external and internal experts who participated in the draft, and it was extensively reviewed within the Legion. Additionally, last year the Vatican published the “Ratio Fundamentalis” most updated for dioceses, and we reviewed that document with great interest, which also helped us make some final edits.

What differences will members of Regnum Christi notice in the Legionaries as a result of this document?

The noticeable changes may seem superficial. They will see a greater variety of clothing styles among Legionaries, as it is less regulated. But despite this diversity, I believe they will still recognize Legionaries.

Is this a confidential document?

Not at all. It consists of 400 pages and is not difficult to read. You can even purchase a copy on Amazon, in Spanish, the official language of the Congregation. A translation into English is in progress.

Is there any plan for a further revision of the document?

We are using it ad experimentum. It will be presented for final approval at our next Ordinary General Chapter in 2020. I am confident that we will learn ways to improve it and will continue adding what we learn.