Author Archives: franksantucci

Eugene recalls and prays for the deceased members of his family. He also refers here to his older sister, Charlotte Élisabeth Eugénie, who died at the age of 5 in 1784 when Eugene was only two years old. Today again … Continue reading →

A rather realistic description of a funeral wake which was a stark reminder to Eugene of the Ash Wednesday words: “Remember that you are dust and unto dust you shall return.” I was busy at home all morning. After dinner, … Continue reading →

In the evening of the beatification, Eugene participated in a jubilee pilgrimage walk to St Peter’s. The Monsignor Dean of the Rota, in his prelate’s garb, carried the crucifix, I was beside wearing my soutane and long coat. As we … Continue reading →

Third Sunday of Advent: I have an insatiable appetite for seeing Church ceremonies when they are carried out with dignity. That’s why I gladly returned to the papal chapel. The Sovereign Pontiff did not attend so a Cardinal officiated once … Continue reading →

After many weeks of absence from the Oblates in France, Eugene expressed his frustration at hw slowly things moved in Rome, and how much he missed his community. Were I to pay attention to myself, I now have had my … Continue reading →

The Vatican officials were not hopeful that the Pope would give his approbation to the Oblates as this was not the custom at this time of the foundation of so many religious societies in France. In this atmosphere of lack … Continue reading →

In his petition to the Pope, Eugene stressed the benefits which their Rule had brought to the Missionaries. Now he asked that the Pope fortify their mission by giving the Rule his approval. Now this family of which Your Holiness … Continue reading →

Once the missionaries had started to work outside of Provence, it became necessary to change their name. They had adopted “Oblates of St Charles,” no doubt to honor the Founder’s patron saint. Eugene, however, did not like this name. Of … Continue reading →

Eugene’s petition to the Pope included the letters of support for the Oblate Rule that he had received from seven bishops. Pope Pius VII granted liberal indulgences to the Society of Missionaries and the Bishops have not ceased to encourage … Continue reading →

Eugene’s petition to the Pope included a summary of the work and achievements of the Oblates since their foundation ten years before: They have devoted themselves mainly to the missions, which is the principal end of their Institute and this … Continue reading →