Author Archives: franksantucci

First let it be understood that you must never be disquieted or annoyed over the observations that I will sometimes have occasion to make. Be well aware it is never my intention to offend, even when I may speak a … Continue reading →

Thirty-five year old Fr. Jean Baudrand had been appointed superior of the community in Longueuil, Canada, and did not feel capable. In the past he had shown an independent spirit but had come to his senses. Yes, my dear son, … Continue reading →

I have been sorrowfully afflicted on learning that the two young Fathers do not get along with each other as two good brothers should, especially when they find themselves so far from their common father. Oh, that is insupportable! What … Continue reading →

The Oblates in Canada did not have an easy time. Externally, they met with opposition from the local clergy who felt threatened by this group of zealous French missionaries who were having much success in their missions and attracting people. … Continue reading →

I see by your letters that in Canada all trace of the first notions of the religious state has been lost…. It is time to call a halt for the disorder has gone too far. Such are the sorrows which … Continue reading →

Eugene returned to the same theme of young Oblates being sent to missions and not being sufficiently prepared in Western Canada. They were doing primary evangelization with people who had not heard the Christian Gospel before, and mistakenly thought that … Continue reading →

As the Canadian missions were increasing, so was the demand for Oblate missionaries. Eugene had agreed to send scholastics to Canada to fulfil this need, but on condition that they finish their studies in Canada. The demands of the missions … Continue reading →

The arrival and work of the Oblates was not met with joy by some of the Canadian clergy. It had been the same in France when Eugene had founded the Oblates. Writing to Bishop Bourget of Montreal, Eugene quoted some … Continue reading →

In February 1849, Pope Pius IX had consulted all the bishops of the world asking their opinion on possibly proclaiming the dogma of the Immaculate Conception What do you have to say about the beautiful decision to be taken concerning … Continue reading →

Oh no! my dear friend, you could not make your letters long enough nor enter into too many details on the subject of your painfully difficult mission. You cannot imagine the anxiety which I feel about you all. Not to … Continue reading →