Founded by the Venerable Louis Querbes, the Congregation of the Clerics of Saint Viator was approved by Archbishop Gaston de Pins (Lyon) in 1831, and subsequently by Pope Gregory XVI in 1838. Today, the identity and spirit of our community are defined by a Constitution, supported by general and particular regulations.
Under Church law, we are an apostolic, clerical religious congregation of pontifical right. Viatorian life is characterized by active apostolate that can be exercised within the universal Church.
The Congregation is represented by a seal designed according to the wishes of the Venerable Louis Querbes: the monogram "IHS" topped by a cross, surrounded by the motto "Sinite parvulos venire ad me" (Let the children come to me) and inscribed in the heart of a crown of thorns.
To fulfill their vocation, the Clerics of Saint Viator prioritize five main orientations in the choice of their apostolic commitments:
Faithful to the thought of the Venerable Louis Querbes, the Viatorians cultivate a community life marked by mutual harmony founded on charity. This authentic fraternity excludes all privileges and relies on the participation of each one.
Members generally reside in local communities to foster fraternal communion. Each religious is personally responsible for his presence and involvement, which are indispensable pillars of local dynamism. Under the responsibility of a local superior, the community is encouraged to develop its religious life and strengthen its fraternal bonds.
In the Congregation, the pastoral service of authority is organized according to different levels of government:
In a spirit of co-responsibility, every Cleric of Saint Viator collaborates with the authorities according to his competencies. This commitment from all ensures the unity and growth of the Congregation, allowing it to fully accomplish its mission in the world.
