Category Archives: WRITINGS

As we look at our troubled and suffering world, what an experience of the Cross it is, and what an invitation to see things in a new light! From the Cross, our Savior reminds us that he is present every … Continue reading →

This reflection was prepared a while ago. As I reread it today, in the context of our current world situation, the question comes to mind: “How can I proclaim this to those most in need today?” Firstly, by spending time … Continue reading →

(These reflections have been adapted from those published in 2021) Former Superior General, Wilhelm Steckling OMI, wrote in 2007: “It was probably in 1807, on Good Friday of that year, that Saint Eugene had a special encounter with the Crucified … Continue reading →

Two years later, Bishop Eugene wrote a Pastoral Letter to his diocese about the works of mercy that were active in his diocese. It shows an amazing grasp of the human needs of the second largest city of France, and of … Continue reading →

To respond to the needs of the poor domestic servants, Bishop Eugene had been instrumental in the founding of the Sisters of Compassion in collaboration with Fr. Jean François Barthès, S.J. I visited the establishment of the new Dames de … Continue reading →

“Seeing the world through the eyes of the Crucified Christ” as a Missionary Oblate, Eugene was always close to the people of his diocese and aware of their needs. He responded by establishing various Works of Charity to meet the … Continue reading →

I fell from the clouds, my dear Father Martin, on receiving your letter. I was hundreds of miles removed from suspecting your dislike for the position I have placed you in. Eugene had given Father Martin a change of community … Continue reading →

“When Bishop Hippolyte Guibert arrived in the diocese of Viviers in 1842, the Abbé Deschanels, chaplain at the shrine, was asking for help. Furthermore, the Jesuits of the house of Lalouvesc were no longer able to respond to all the … Continue reading →

The Founder, as Superior General, regularly held decision-making Oblate council meetings. The minutes of January 1845 start off with a long statement on the poverty of the Congregation, which had hardly any funds but spent large amounts to feed and … Continue reading →

In France it is customary to exchange greetings at New Year. Eugene wrote to Father Courtès to express his good wishes. So that things won’t happen to me today as they do every day, my dear Courtès, that I don’t … Continue reading →