Author Archives: franksantucci

Today then, I did the ordination to the diaconate of Brother d’Herbomez with a great sadness in my heart. I left the altar of the ordination and went to the seminary to assist at the requiem Mass which was sung … Continue reading →

27 year-old Fr. Jean François Mounier had got typhoid fever and had died. He was a much-appreciated spiritual director, firstly as a deacon at the novitiate, and then as a newly-ordained priest at the seminary in Marseilles. Eugene loved and … Continue reading →

Within days of his priestly ordination, Fr Grenier received his first mission assignment. My very dear Fr. Grenier, I have been wanting to write to you for several days. I have been prevented from doing so by my activities which … Continue reading →

Eugene’s visit to the Nancy area was to have included the ordination to the priesthood of Ferdinand Grenier, but Eugene had to cut short his visit to rush back to Marseilles because of the outbreak of cholera You would have … Continue reading →

The Shrine of Notre Dame de la Garde is on a hill dominating the city of Marseilles where the “Good Mother” (as Mary is referred to by the inhabitants of the city) watches over everyone. As soon as Eugene returned … Continue reading →

Now that the work that God has called me to has been achieved, what could be a more happy event for me than to die, especially if the sacrifice of my life were to be accepted not only as expiation … Continue reading →

I have all my life desired to die a victim of charity. You know that this crown was withheld from me right from the first days of my ministry. The Lord had his designs since He wanted to trust me … Continue reading →

We are here under the fatal influence of cholera, which takes from us some 40, or 30, 20, or 25 people each day. Those who come here are in danger. Yesterday a whole family of five people died on coming … Continue reading →

Eugene had been visiting the Oblate communities in the center of France and while in the area had also taken the opportunity to do the baptism of the child of his niece, who was about to give birth. News reached … Continue reading →

Second of August, anniversary of my Baptism. Mass with the Capuchin Sisters. This Mass has become an institution on this day. I can think of no greater help than the prayers of these holy ladies to thank God for a … Continue reading →