Category Archives: LETTERS

THE POPE LOVES THE OBLATES

The day came for Eugene to go to the Under-secreatry Adinolfi, to find out the reaction of the Pope. The Archpriest had recommended to the Pope that he give a decree of praise (laudanda) the Oblates and not a formal … Continue reading

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A MATTER OF THE LIFE OR DEATH OF THE OBLATES

In the letter that Eugene had written to the Archpriest (but never delivered) he set out very clearly why the Papal approbation of the Oblate Congregation was essential for their future survival. Now we find ourselves in a very critical … Continue reading

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PREOCCUPIED FOR THE WHOLE OF THAT DAY WITH THIS MATTER, I WAS PERTURBED

The following day, knowing that the Archpriest was going to make his recommendations to the Pope, Eugene was tense and restless. Nevertheless, preoccupied for the whole of that day with this matter, I composed a letter for M. the Archpriest, … Continue reading

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I LEAVE THIS MATTER IN YOUR HANDS; I ASK NOTHING BUT THE FULFILMENT OF THE PLANS OF GOD

December 21 was the anniversary of Eugene’s ordination to the priesthood. I had really wanted to spend this day on retreat, but I had to go to see the person indicated to me by the Holy Father. Roman Diary, 21 … Continue reading

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ENTRUSTING THE OBLATE RULE TO SAINT PETER AND HIS SUCCESSOR

The next morning, the 14th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood, Eugene celebrated Mass at the tomb of Saint Peter. The previous day he had been with Pope Leo, the successor of Peter to ask his approbation of the … Continue reading

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I HAD THE POPE BLESS MY CRUCIFIX AND ASKED HIM FOR HIS APOSTOLIC BLESSING

Eugene continues the narrative of his first meeting with Pope Leo XII: When the Pope took trouble to explain at length to me the formalities which necessarily require much time, he said to me: “You will not leave so soon, … Continue reading

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HE GRANTED ME EVERYTHING I REQUESTED

Pope Leo had indicated how Eugene should proceed with his request for approbation. Lest I did not retain the name of the secretary whom he designated to me, he extended his kindness to the point of looking in his desk … Continue reading

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BEING DIRECT WITH THE POPE

When I had finished speaking, he took up the discourse and spoke for quite a long time himself on this same subject. One would have said that he wished to make excuses for not doing with a stroke of his … Continue reading

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A MOMENT OF DIVINE INSPIRATION

When any new religious congregation comes into existence in the Church, it is necessary for the Church to study it so as to evaluate whether it is the human invention of a charismatic person or whether it comes from God. … Continue reading

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YOU SHOULD HAVE SEEN WITH WHAT INTEREST THE POPE LISTENED TO THE GOOD OPERATED BY OUR MISSIONARIES.

Eugene describes the contents of his interview with Pope Leo: I handed him with respect the letter from my uncle which he placed before him on his desk. Then began our interview, which ran on several subjects, and lasted nearly … Continue reading

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