Vatican approval was necessary for this new mission, which Cardinal Fransoni granted. In responding to him, Eugene described the qualities of Fr. Semeria.<\/p>\n
In keeping with the views of the Sacred Congregation, it has been my concern to select three very good men. This was not a very difficult task since our Oblates of the Most Holy Mary Immaculate, by the grace of God, are all good and all ready to sacrifice their lives for the glory of God to and work for the conversion and sanctification of souls. That is the precise goal of their vocation. <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n I have selected the best from among these good men: Fr. Etienne Semeria. He is still rather young, only 34 years old, but does possess the required maturity as far as virtues and all religious qualities are concerned. He has been the superior of the Corsican missions for a number of years. It is unbelievable with what success, with what blessings of God, even bandits have come to prostrate themselves before him; and marvelous indeed are the cases of reconciliation in this land we all know due to his zeal and goodness. <\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n When the bishop learns of this theft I am about to perpetrate, I don\u2019t know if he will forgive me. The Congregation, however, loans its members, it does not donate them. It is of utmost importance that there be a religious such as Fr. Semeria at the head of this first small community.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n Letter to Cardinal Fransoni, Prefect of the S. Cong, of Propaganda Fide, 25 September 1847. EO 5 n 6<\/em><\/p>\n REFLECTION<\/strong><\/p>\n Etienne Semeria was a good choice and was eventually to become Bishop of Jaffna. (See: https:\/\/www.omiworld.org\/lemma\/semeria-bishop-etienne\/<\/a>)<\/p>\n “A true leader has the confidence to stand alone, the courage to make tough decisions, and the compassion to listen to the needs of others. He does not set out to be a leader, but becomes one by the equality of his actions and the integrity of his intent.” (Douglas MacArthur)<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" Vatican approval was necessary for this new mission, which Cardinal Fransoni granted. In responding to him, Eugene described the qualities of Fr. Semeria. In keeping with the views of the Sacred Congregation, it has been my concern to select three … Continue reading