FRATERNUS is about virtue.  Virtue is the firm and habitual choosing of the good.  Notice the word habit in that definition.  A habit is something we do almost without thinking - its a reaction - not quite knee jerk but not quite rational.  We just do it.  If they’re good they’re good, and if they’re bad they’re bad.  To grow in virtue is to grow in those habits that are towards the good.  Often times they simply replace the bad, but sometimes a removal of bad habits are the focus.  Particularly in lent.

FRATERNUS men, I think, are vital in bringing back a good habit - trusting men.  By being trustworthy, we show that not only is this possible, but its the norm for men not the exception.  Most of us reading this can instantly think of a time when our trust of a man was violated - perhaps even a very painful experience.  Unfortunately that can cause us to apply that (un)trustworthiness to most men we encounter, especially if it was painful before (we don’t want that pain to come back, right?).

But a lack in trust causes mistrust of trust.  Mistrust rarely stays in one heart.  We begin to keep an eye over our shoulder.  Suspicion takes over.  Communication breaks down.  Then the monster of anger is born.  He begins to break our bonds of trust in the most vital areas.  The habit of not trusting becomes a downfall for many - not just the one.

Our prayer is that the men working with FRATERNUS be an example of one to be trusted in their community.  Only a good old fashioned handshake is needed.  This is of course monitored closely by our friend prudence, the cheif of the cardinal virtues.  But hopefully we can propogate a posture of trust amongst men.  After all, we are brothers.

J Michael Craig