Fr Chanel left France -- his home, his friends, all that he knew -- in December of 1836 with several other Marists of the newly approved Society of Mary. Their desire was to bring the Gospel to the people of Oceania by living among them in the spirit of Mary. Fr. Chanel and Brother Nizier ended up on the Island of Futuna. Chanel spent his life for the Gospel because on 28 April 1841 he was killed. Fr. Chanel's ministry wasn't what we would call successful. While on the island there were very few converts to the faith. However, a short time after his martrydom practically the whole island was Baptized. In death comes life!
Marists look up to Peter Chanel as a brother to emulate. He reminds us that we don't always see the success of our work, yet, God works success through all our efforts.
Tomorrow's visit to Fourviere will echo with the footsteps of Chanel, Colin, Champagnat, and the others who dedicated themselves to founding the Society of Mary.
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