Author Archives: franksantucci

Eugene was ecstatic about the experience of the gathering of Oblates at the General Chapter. In his diary he wrote: I will describe nothing about all that has happened in this memorable chapter. The register in which these acts are … Continue reading →

With these words, Eugene as Superior General, pointed to the situation of the Congregation: “These are the wonders of Providence upon us and an ever more pressing reason to thank the Lord who has given us such a vocation and … Continue reading →

Every six years the Missionary Oblates gather for an important meeting, called a General Chapter. Here, representatives from each province come together to review the state of the Congregation and to evaluate its responses to the needs of the world … Continue reading →

Pertinent advice for all of us who are tempted not to read the signs that God sends us regarding the responsibility of self-care. I have learned with extreme pleasure by your letter that you have recovered from your illness; but … Continue reading →

Continuing his letter to the Society of the Propagation of the Faith, Eugene boasts about the Oblate achievements in England and Wales and their hopes for the conversion of many to Catholicism. The vocabulary is of that time – bear … Continue reading →

Establishing Oblate missions outside of France required personnel and funds. The Society for the Propagation of the Faith was generous in giving financial assistance. In order to receive a grant each year, Eugene had to write to them to give … Continue reading →

One of Eugene’s greatest joys was to receive news from his Oblates about themselves and their missionary work. The length of time that letters from Canada took was a source of frustration for him, thus making it a special occasion … Continue reading →

Young Father Lucien Lagier was 27 years old when he arrived in Canada. He was impressionable and had been unduly influenced by the negativity of Fr. Baudrand. Now that the latter had been removed, Lagier was able to come to … Continue reading →

An important method of maintaining the Congregation faithful to its charism and spirit was by the regular correspondence between Eugene and the local community superiors. This was especially the case with Father Honorat, the Canadian mission superior, and father Aubert … Continue reading →

Eugene as Bishop of the second-largest city of France and Superior General of a growing missionary Congregation, had very little time for himself. These two extracts give an example. I let myself go, my dear Father Honorat, and wrote an … Continue reading →