Tuitio Fidei, one of the historical charisms of the Order of Malta, is a duty which is frequently misunderstood. People often say "but how can I teach the Faith, I don't know enough?" Notwithstanding our duty as Catholics to inform ourselves about the Faith so that we can offer arguments when challenged (apologetics), Tuitio Fidei does not, necessarily or even primarily, mean active proselytizing (though sometimes it can), but for most of us may be done daily in living our lives as God would wish. We are watched by others all the time, whatever we do, and simply doing it well is a powerful tool for evangelisation.
In this short film of prisoners in Dachau we see the most moving example of Tuitio Fidei in the piety and silent devotion of these men, in the very jaws of death.
We are told simply that these men are all priests, survivors in the Dachau camp. It is not known what exactly is happening, seemingly some form of devotion after Mass, but this lack of detail adds to its mystical quality. The sight of these men, intent upon their devotions, making the sign of the Cross in unison and with great care, is incredibly beautiful. This is how to pray. The film was made days after the liberation of Germany.
Let us pray that we too may learn to offer our own prayer with this attention: this is Tuitio Fidei.
All holy men and women, pray for us.
Film courtesy of Gloria TV (and hat-tip to Fr Blake of Brighton).
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