The approbations of 1902/1903 took place in a period of strife and difficulties of every kind. But the Congregation – from now on this is the term we must use – was thriving. In such a situation weak organisations do not survive. The history of the Church is full of examples of this type. Although it was never made the object of a special study, it is evident that the expulsions of 1901 had a profoundly adverse effect on certain communities. This was not the case with the Holy Family. Not only did it survive, it actually flourished. At the start that was not evident. The fact remains, however, that the Roman approbations placed the community in a delicate situation juridically. It is not surprising either that the consequences should be felt for a long time. In transforming the Association into a Congregation, there was the risk of a progressive institutionalisation, of an alignment with the prevailing law. That is exactly what happened.

Like the previous chapter, this one must be read with respect for the persons concerned and without passing judgment on them. People are not always in a position to do what they wish, and situations are not always clear. That does not, of course, rule out an assessment of the events and their consequences.