THERE ARE ALWAYS NEW TRIALS

Father Viala’s health could not withstand the difficult relationship he had with the Bishop of Algiers and he was recalled to France. In November two more Oblates were sent to Algeria. Despite the difficulties, the evangelization of the Arabs always remained close to Eugene’s heart and he did not abandon the project. Along with two newly-ordained Oblates he sent Fr. Tempier to make new arrangements with the Bishop.

Apart from the external relations with the Bishop of Algiers, Fr Tempier had an urgent issue to resolve within the Oblate community.

Fr, Tempier has returned from his travels to Algiers. Never has a journey been more necessary. He arrived in time to unmask Fr. Bellanger who unworthily betrayed the Congregation by calumniating the intentions of his superiors to the bishop… There are always new trials. Judas must always get himself mixed up in the matter to spoil it.

Eugene de Mazenod’s Diary, 23 December 1849, EO XXII

Yvon Beaudoin narrates: “on February 4, 1850, Father Bellanger was expelled from the Congregation for serious reasons described that day in the General Council’s report and in a long letter of the Founder to Bishop L. A. Pavy, Bishop of Algeria. Father Bellanger had broadcast far and wide the false claims that he came from a rich and noble family. He spent a lot of money and contracted large debts, had falsely advised Father Viala that the bishop no longer wanted him in Algeria, etc. In an old register of the personnel, we read after his name: “This priest’s life was nothing other than a hoax from beginning to end. Nevertheless, he succeeded in winning our full confidence. But once he was sent to Algeria, he was unmasked and was dishonourably discharged.” (https://www.omiworld.org/lemma/bellanger-jean-baptiste/)