At the moment of his episcopal consecration Eugene, who was in Rome would be united with all his loved ones, separated from him in France. They would be united, however, in the most intimate way through prayer.
So, removing itself from the crowd of curious onlookers my eyes may see, my soul absorbed in God will see you in Him,
you, my darling sister, her children, my venerable uncle and the whole family, my children in Jesus Christ, my friends worthy of that title that it is not my habit to give lightly.
If, as I hope, my letter of the 4th arrived in time, tomorrow morning we shall all be united in Jesus Christ in the most intimate way, as you will all be united with the Sacrifice during which I shall be consecrated, by communion and by the Masses that will be said for my intention. And this is how I shall find consolation for my isolation from all whom I love…
I go on my knees to ask your maternal blessing, and hug you with all the affection that you know I have for you. Hugs too for Eugenie and her children.
Letter to his mother, 13 October 1832, EO XV n 167
Looking at the strong bond between Eugene and his mother we can understand the origin of his strong bond with Mary Immaculate, his heavenly mother, which he shared with “my children in Jesus Christ,” his Oblate family.
“…my soul absorbed in God will see you in Him…” “…my children in Jesus Christ…” “I …hug you with all the affection that you know I have for you.” “…you will all be united with the Sacrifice during which I will shall be consecrated…”
Glimpses of unrestrained love – a heart over-flowing. This is most intimate love – this joining of hearts in God.
To be free enough to love – without restraints. A couple of weeks ago a friend of mine returned from being on retreat and told me that his life-long dream and desire had been met – he had ‘met’ Jesus. I was filled with joy for him, in gratitude to Him – a joy so wonderful that I was able to recognize the gift of love from God. It eclipsed my morning.
Eugene, I am immersed this morning – my courses are like a retreat that I am taking part in everyday – my daily life around it only enhanced by my heart’s ongoing transformation. God began it all, and chose you to share with me what life in Him looks like. Love that is so much more than affectation, more than being maudlin, it becomes our deepest reality as our very beings are saturated with it. The dawn is beginning and like a flower in the field I will open fully as I lean up and out towards the light. My heart opens so that it can share God’s gifts like the coming dawn.