DO NOT FORGET THAT YOUR HEALTH IS FRAGILE AND THAT IT HAS TO BE TREATED WITH CAUTION

Eugene had ordained Joseph Arnoux to the priesthood in the Marseilles cathedral on 8 April 1848 and sent him to Notre-Dame de Lumières to minister to the pilgrims. During one of his first Masses after ordination he had coughed blood, usually a sign of tuberculosis which had already killed many Oblates. Shrine ministry was demanding, and Eugene worried about this 23 year-old.

I was pleased to learn that you have given yourself courageously to the holy ministry of serving pilgrims; my only fear is that your health may have suffered. Do not forget that your health is fragile and that it has to be treated with caution. So, no matter how large the crowds, never risk staying up the whole night. Go to bed when it is time, and rest as much as you need. By wanting to do too much, you risk pushing yourself to the grave. Do not fear to tell this to the superior who does not know your temperament and who could judge you on appearances only.

I congratulate you on putting forth your first efforts on the occasion of the great feast of our good Mother. You will have gathered your good share of the graces she distributes profusely on all who have recourse to her powerful protection… the dinner bell calls me elsewhere. I leave you then, my dear Father Arnoux, and press you to my heart, which. as you know, loves you tenderly. Do not forget me when you are at the feet of our good Mother at your shrine.

Letter to Fr. Joseph Arnoux at Notre Dame de Lumières, 20 August 1848, EO X n 985

REFLECTION

“The power of youth is the common wealth for the entire world. The faces of young people are the faces of our past, our present and our future. No segment in the society can match with the power, idealism, enthusiasm and courage of the young people.” (Kailash Satyarthi)