Congregation of the Mission. Circular Letters. Pierre De Wailly and Dominique Salhorgne, 1827-1835 John E Rybolt

DePaul University

From the SelectedWorks of John E Rybolt

2016

Congregation of the Mission. Circular letters. Pierre de Wailly and Dominique Salhorgne, 1827-1835 John E Rybolt

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons CC_BY International License.

Available at: https://works.bepress.com/john_rybolt/90/ Congregation of the Mission, Circular Letters

Antoine Fiat, 1878-1914

A Topical Outline

John E. Rybolt, C.M.

Introduction

Saint Vincent de Paul wrote several general letters to each of the houses of the Congregation. Called circular letters, they help give modern readers a sense of his care for the whole Community. His successors, too, carried on this practice. Their letters were published in three volumes, ceasing with the generalate of Jean-Baptiste Étienne, who died in 1874. This outline reviews the circular letters of Father Antoine Fiat, superior general from 1878 to 1914. Fiat had seen to the publication of the original three volumes, and it is ironic that his letters were never published in that official collection. He evidently intended to have them published, since they were numbered and paged consecutively for the most part. The advent of the First World War probably delayed and then derailed the project. Fiat served longer than any superior general, including Saint Vincent himself. With Jean- Baptiste Étienne, Fiat stands as one of the two pillars of the Congregation of the Mission in the century following the French Revolution. The impact of both of them on the Community was great greater detail, but the drift of the Vincentians from a community of secular clergy to a religious congregation is at least one point to be seen in these letters, which Fiat spoke of as his spiritual testament. These letters might continue the title of the three volumes, Recueil des Principales Circulaires des Supérieurs Généraux de la Congrégation de la Mission [“Collection of the Principal Circulars of the Superiors General of the Congregation of the Mission”]. Those volumes contained the letters and biographical information about Fiat's predecessors, beginning with Vincent de Paul. The emphasis in those volumes, as well as here, is on “Principal Circulars,” since many letters were not published. Nevertheless, besides the 79 officially numbered letters which were directed to the entire Community, Fiat’s principal circulars, many others, unnumbered, have been included here as they have come to light in the collections of various archives. Although they were circular letters, they generally had a more restricted audience, such as an individual province. They were usually printed on letter press or lithographed from a fine manuscript hand. The enormous body of Fiat’s general correspondence, although largely unknown, helps to explain the inner life and interests of the Congregation of the Mission, probably up to the Second Vatican Council. Each circular letter has been analyzed, with salient points summarized. More attention has been given here to news from the United States than to news from elsewhere. These other provinces are often passed over simply by mentioning them. Those persons mentioned are mainly members of the general curia or other noteworthy Vincentians; unmentioned are the many visitors [provincial superiors], and others nominated to various offices. (All the letters were written from Paris, and in French, unless noted otherwise.) For those interested in pursuing the legacy of Antoine Fiat, the originals or copies of the letters summarized here are available in some Vincentian archives, and in certain libraries, such as at DePaul University, Chicago.

Circular Letters of Antoine Fiat

1878, 4 May, #1, pp. 1-2. As vicar general, he announces the death of Eugène Boré, superior general, and requests specified prayers and masses. Asks for prayers for himself in his delicate role.

1878, undated, #2, pp. 4-10. He reports on Boré’s funeral, and the plans for a general assembly on 1 September to elect a successor. Read Jean-Baptiste Étienne on the subject of provincial assemblies, and elect a man who will keep to the old rules. To gain divine help, observe our rules, and pray. He cites Fathers Edme Jolly and René Alméras against electioneering.

1878, 1 November, #3, pp. 12-23. Fiat's election, and his unworthiness. He reports on various decisions made by the general assembly (8 - 22 September). (1) Confessors for confreres are to come only from the Community; motives for this decision. Observe rules on confessors. (2) Cases of conscience are to be held, since they have been recommended for religious orders. He recalls Saint Vincent's example at Saint Lazare.1 (3) The assembly renewed the old rules on visits to parents. He will write more about this later. (4) He revokes all former general permissions, on writing and sending letters without permission. He asks the superiors to open and read letters. (5) Another internal seminary will be opened in France. Observe the rules, especially poverty. Pray for the primitive spirit. He asks for men willing to be foreign missioners. He grants permission for reading books on the Index, allows imposition of the three scapulars, and closes with a note on stipends.

1879, 1 January, #4, pp. 24-38. He sends best wishes for the new year, especially for participation in the spirit of Saint Vincent and his first companions. He asks that the confreres follow the Little Method in preaching. He recommends reliance on providence, suffering calumny in silence, avoidance of political talk. We are Carthusians at home, apostles abroad. Confreres should ask permission from local pastors to give missions in their parishes. Read the Memoire (Circulars I, p. 96 ff) yearly about prayer for the primitive spirit. Practice the rules, especially the hour for rising, common prayer. Read the life of Saint Vincent. NEWS: France, Algeria—progress. “Missions are the first and principal function.” Italy—the causes of Francis Regis Clet and John Gabriel Perboyre are advancing. Spain—vocations are growing, and missions like the Philippines are advancing. Portugal—the province is beginning again with the help of the pope. Ireland—all right. Prussia—some progress. Poland—problems still. Austria—fervent, some priests are entering the novitiate. Orient (Near East)—good reputation. Persia—a new press begun. Syria—schools are good, and collaboration with Daughters of Charity is progressing. Ethiopia—famine and death, but new recruits. China—good progress. USA: many parishes, but conversions offset the number of them and attest to their utility. Mexico—the Daughters of Charity are forced to leave. Central America—revolutions, but hope remains. Chile—doing well. Brazil—missions and seminary are going well. Argentina— vocations, hopes for the future. He reports on changes in personnel in the curia. He lists the missioners sent out. Pray for vocations. The letter closes with the necrology.

1879, 15 May, #5, pp. 39-45. He met with the pope. The Community will open a house in Perugia. He had a good reception from cardinals and others. Thus, confreres should recognize the supreme authority of the pope. The pope erected the Confraternity of the Holy Agony. Our proper ordo and calendar should be reviewed

2 and rearranged. He calls the Community to know the liturgy and to be exact. He recommends private prayer for a half hour after mass.

1879, 22 May, #6, pp. 46-55. He writes about trips taken by confreres. On this, he refers to a document of 1659 containing rules of the Internal Seminary. It has a series of questions to be asked before taking vows, especially about never returning home according to the example of Saint Vincent and other superiors general (René Alméras, Edme Jolly) and assemblies. He makes comparisons with other communities. As a result, he sends rules on the subject. He cites further examples from Saint Vincent, Perboyre and others.

1879, 4 September, #7, pp. 56-69. (For Superiors only.) He addresses them on their duties on the anniversary of his election. God will bless our efforts. He asks for superiors to follow mutual unity, unity of spirits, unity of hearts through charity. (1) These principles are furnished by reason and experience. (2) They come from faith. We are responsible to God, to the Community, to our inferiors. All authority comes from God. Our response to him should be proper: e.g., divine office, mass, conferences, repetitions of prayer, other obligations. The superiors are responsible to the Community: you are appointed by the superior general, representing the Community. You are a column destined to support this part of the edifice. Do not abuse that confidence. Watch over observance of small rules. Also be careful about the rule of silence, reading at table, care of temporal goods. You should love your confreres first, as a mother loves her children (as Saint Bernard teaches.) This love will cause vigilance. Superiors should also instruct their inferiors on the duties of their state. Also, carry on paternal correction, your third main obligation. (3) There are also principles furnished by Saint Vincent, i.e., his spiritual maxims. These include vigilance, weakness and strength, humility and meekness, correction. He urges superiors to work for the correction of the Congregation, the sanctification of its members. Superiors are to be observant of the rule. They preach by their good example, and should be men of God, loving his glory, lovers of prayer, etc.

1879, 25 December, #8, pp. 69 [bis]-82. He sends Christmas wishes, especially for charity for the confreres. He cites the example of Saint Vincent, and offers motives. Problems and faults will be encountered, but let us love the Congregation, since it is honored by the Church. Do not deprecate other communities. NEWS: France—new houses are opened and missions progress. He recommends the restoration of the philosophy of Saint Thomas Aquinas. He gives a rapid review of other countries. Spain—good growth, the confreres receive support from the bishops. Portugal—he visited there, and saw developments. There are problems in Ethiopia, Persia, and China. Central and South America— conversions, including those of captive Indians in Argentina. Many missioners have been sent out. He concludes with the necrology.

1880, 15 February, unnumbered, 4 pp. (To members of the Spanish province, in Latin.) He is planning to visit the Spanish province, with its long history and brilliant members. He will begin 20 October, traveling with Stella. He thanks God for the fervor of the province. The only matter that bothered him was the Spanish preference for their own way of celebrating the Divine Office and Mass according to the Spanish calendar, in view of papal briefs of 1570 and 1575. Pius IX wanted them all to follow the Roman style. A recent response to a petition about this led the Holy See to say that Spain was to follow the decrees of 1850 and 1854. Fiat expects them to show their dependence on the Holy See by following these directives.

1880, 1 March, 8 pp., printed; for visitors Reviews reason for having visitors and history. – Plurality of internal seminaries, but in the history of France, some did not work out, despite the wish to have one per province. Despite the fact that

3 Etienne was against having many, the assemblies did not agree; Fiat accepts their views. He wants to encourage vocations and good preparations. He hopes to increase the work of popular missions, as well as seminaries. – Visitors should also support foreign missions where needed. Those who go should study the local languages. There should be regularly formed CM houses in these foreign missions. Each house should have its own liberty of action under its officers. Even in France, where visitors cannot provide everything for their provinces, they should be receiving good information. Hold council meetings regularly. Be humble and modest about conduct of these meetings. Follow the directories and ordinances of the superiors general in executing the decisions of the councils. – Prudent financial administration; make regular visitations; hold conferences on cases of conscience; read Common Rules. Report to the superior general on the visitations made.

1880, 5 March; for apostolic vicars in China [Summarized from Annales CM 123 (1958): 465] On the major question of the organization of the China provinces. He told them of his intention to organize regular houses in each vicariate, at least two or three. He cited the example of the Jesuits and the Capuchins who organize this way in their vicariates. In addition, there is a decree from a general assembly that prescribes this. We have to give an example of obedience. Through this organization, the district heads, who will have the title and authority of a Community superior, will make sure that the rule is observed; they will not be there only for the works. – People object that the apostolic vicars will not have more authority than previously; for example, they will not be able to change superiors without having recourse to the superior general. Fiat answered that, in urgent cases, when recourse to the superior general is impossible, they may have the visitor change the superiors. Fiat noted that the Jesuit apostolic vicars do not have the absolute power of changing the residence of their confreres, a fortiori, changing superiors. Fiat added that he consulted the Prefect of Propaganda, and he did not object to this measure, since he did not see that it was counter to the good of the Mission. As a result, Fiat asked each apostolic vicar to establish regular houses in their vicariate. Fiat added another reason: “We agree with the confreres from foreign provinces who complain of this multiplication of visitors who have no house to visit.” Fiat will receive their observations on this matter. “There is no reason to ask for pardon. I just ask to be enlightened, and I am very happy if people speak to me frankly.”

1880, 6 March, unnumbered, unpaged. (Autographed; to missioners giving missions.) Missions are the first work of the Congregation, and are still necessary. He asks for information, and sends a questionnaire on the state of missions, how they are conducted, what happens between times for missions, the obstacles to conducting them, and means to do better.

1880, 7 March, 4 pp., signed, lithographed; for those giving missions. He is planning a meeting of missionaries; asks questions about conduct of missions for discussion in this meeting.

1880, 4 September, #9, pp. 83-93. This is the fiftieth anniversary of the apparitions to Catherine Labouré. The Congregation should prepare for this celebration, and recall the prophecy about dangers to come. He speaks of the mission of the Medal. The medal was struck, and graces flowed on both communities. The Congregation was spared problems in many places. He plans now for celebration of the anniversary with prayers. The Blessed Mother will put an end to heresies. Two meetings have been held on minor seminaries and mission houses. There was general agreement on the value of seminaries. There is need to establish more of them, and to use Christian authors in teaching. Concerning cases of conscience, in France, each house is to send the results in to Paris, and they will be judged. He also plans to consecrate the Congregation to the Sacred Heart: should we do so?

4 1880, 13 October, unnumbered, unpaged A request to Leo XIII to celebrate the feast of the Immaculate Conception on 27 November; the pope’s positive response, dated 12 October 1880.

1881, 1 January, #10, pp. 83 [bis]-98. He sends best wishes for the new year. The theme of the letter is missions. He refers to the circular of 6 March 1880, which gives the reasons for missions: this is our main work. The seminaries should not conflict with the missions. There is an obligation on everyone through our vows. It is possible to spend times in both seminaries and missions. Missions give life to the Congregation. He cites Saint Vincent on the subject. The demon tries to turn us away, e.g., to take on colleges, parishes, other establishments. He reviews the following reasons for doing so, and refutes them. “The country people are indifferent. Shorten the time of the mission. Restrict the number of missioners to one or two. Do not fall victim to too much zeal. Take a vacation.” Our missions have a special character, with general confessions, the Little Method, and they offered gratuitously. NEWS: He offers brief remarks about problems in Persia, and the good number of vocations in Spain. Some men have been elevated to the episcopacy. The new bishop in Costa Rica still wants to be listed as a Vincentian. Several men have been sent out on mission. There is a new apostolic school in Belgium. Pray for the Congregation. He concludes with the necrology.

1881, 21 January, 2 pp., signed, lithographed; an appendix to the foregoing. To resolve some doubts about the gratuity of missions, following his circular of 1 January 1881. He was not imposing any new obligation, but recalling what the obligations are. Especially clear about receiving income from the Sisters for any services rendered to them. Many details about accepting funds to cover the costs of travel.

1881, 25 January, unpaged, small letter paper, lithographed, 1 sheet. Concerning a proposed book of meditations, based on writings of St. Vincent. He proposes that individuals select their favorite passages and compose meditations; these could be assembled as a book. – Sends also the fifth volume of the letters of St. Vincent.

1881, 2 February, #11, pp. 99-114. He plans for the consecration of the Congregation to the Sacred Heart. The motives are taken from the life of Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque. We have the Red Scapular and can see proofs of the love of Jesus. He recalls the two hearts on the Miraculous Medal. The consecration is to be celebrated on 25 June with the prayer of consecration, and mass. Preach on it in the missions. The fruits from this consecration will be perfect union, and help to revere the passion, as with the Scapular of the Passion (see general assembly of 1867.) Devotion to the Eucharist will lead to frequent communions, to mortifications (he recalls new practice at the Maison Mère [Mother House in Paris]: no meat at breakfast, but only chocolate or coffee with milk, instead of the bread and wine formerly used.) Other houses have to judge for themselves. Do not eat out with externs. He includes a copy of the Act of Consecration. [This was published separately, 6 pp., undated.]

1881, 25 April [Announced, but not located]

1881, 19 July, #11 bis, pp. 115-124. He announces the appointment of a new consultor. There has been a meeting of major seminaries (in France) to consider the Internal Seminary. The meeting had a good spirit, especially about a “complete return to primitive traditions.” The program dealt with the second year of novitiate, and studies. They decided not to allow studies, with only rare exceptions. He calls on all to obey the rules and decrees.

5 He then presents various questions and answers on issues of studies for the Community, e.g., which textbooks to employ. The Maison Mère prefers San Severino; others prefer Valet, Zigliara, or Brin.

1881, 25 August, undated, unnumbered, unpaged. He writes on the prohibition of smoking, based on the decree of the assembly of 1861, and sends a questionnaire: e.g., did a physician recommend smoking as an “indispensable remedy?” Only the superior general can permanently dispense from the prohibition. Confreres cannot use a sum of money (given monthly) for something already forbidden (i.e., tobacco).

1881, 8 September, 7 pp., lithographed; for France Concerning application of law on taxation, dated 28 December 1880. For the purposes of the law, all local houses in France should be regarded as succursales [branches] of the mother house in Paris.

1881, 15 October, 4 pp., printed, unnumbered. (Written only for provincials and superiors of major seminaries in France.) He reestablished the rule of a two-year internal seminary, in circular of 19 July 1881. Other questions arose about the rule of the internal seminary. Nothing new need be done, only return to the old rule. We have looked at the copies of the old rules and have reestablished the rule as it was more or less everywhere before the Revolution. He is sending the results. There are to be no changes or adaptations without the express permission of the superior general, as Etienne ordered in 1867. However, there can be certain additions or explanations if the director sends them into the provincial. These can be discussed next year in a meeting. – Explains certain difficulties about corporal exercises; about priests making their novitiate with others; study of the catechism of the Council of Trent plus theology; study of St. Vincent; reinstituting the "conversation," on scripture, as a "pious discussion." Other details explained. Hopes the rules will be carefully observed everywhere.

1881, 25 October, unnumbered, unpaged. He writes on the rules of the internal seminary. He wishes to return to the traditions going back to Saint Vincent. He has reviewed the manuscripts at Saint Lazare, and at seminaries from the old provinces, and has restored the ancient order of the day. This order should be followed everywhere, but individual provinces may add their own particular local practices where these are specified in the French version used in Paris. To solve difficulties in the new text, make a list of these and discuss them with the visitor. Confreres should send them to him for next year's meeting. He offers special explanations of individual rules: corporal exercise; evening meditation for those in sacred orders; study of Catechism of Trent in Latin; study of Saint Vincent; common recreation (which should have study and conversation about the Bible.) Evening recreation has been granted. He explains the use of titles, and kneeling down on entering and leaving.

1882, 1 January, #12, pp. 125-142. He sends wishes for the new year, and especially encourages reading the life and works of Saint Vincent recently made available. Other old customs have been reintroduced at the Maison Mère. He announces deaths among confreres, and other losses, such as naming men to the episcopacy. NEWS: There are persecutions in Ethiopia and in China. Good news in France, at the Maison Mère, and at the internal seminary at Dax. In Colombia, missioners were sent out. He offers testimonies of the benevolence of the Holy See toward the Congregation. He adds documents at the end of the letter, without comment, concerning the rights of Vincentian vicars and prefects apostolic, confessors, the calendar, etc. He concludes with the necrology.

6 1882, 25 January, #13, pp. 143-146. He writes on philosophy and theology studies. There should be two years of philosophy and four years of theology.

1882, 23 April, #14, pp. 147-156. (To Visitors.) He follows up on his letter of 1880, directed exclusively to visitors. (1) Examine candidates to the internal seminary well and have testimonial letters, following Roman documents. (2) Observe the official Community directories, and inspire others with respect for them. Our rules demand religious esteem and exact docility. Be vigilant on visitations. (3) In matters of poverty, renew permissions regularly. Be careful about trips, tours, etc. (4) Concerning temporal administration, have official papers. Also, be vigilant about accepting founded masses, etc. (He includes Roman documents mentioned previously.)

1882, 8 July, 7 pp., unsigned. [The date is the date of the petition to the pope.] Sends a copy in French of his petition to the pope about the authority of the superior general of the Congregation of the Mission over the Daughters of Charity; the pope’s reply, in French and Latin confirming this authority; and some conclusions, principally about certain bishops who wanted to assume this authority to themselves, concerning election of the superioress general, visitation of houses, appointment of confessors, internal government of the Company, and the resolution of conflicts between the Sisters and dioceses.

1882, 11 November, unnumbered, unpaged. (Autographed; to Directors of the Daughters of Charity.) He gives information to the directors on their role, annual permissions, presiding at councils. Some confusion has existed in the appointment of directors and extraordinary commissaries. He also comments on personal property and permission. A directory for the directors is being prepared.

1883, 1 January, #15, pp. 157-170. He sends his best wishes for new year. Follow Saint Vincent. He calls superiors to practice goodness, discernment, and firmness. NEWS: He opens with news of deaths and other disasters, such as the burning of the college in Alexandria, and persecution in China. He cannot send enough men to the Americas to respond to the bishops. Pray for the primitive spirit. Minor seminaries should be founded in every province. Under Mariano Maller, the internal seminaries were reviewed in Europe. Studies have been made of the old notebooks from the early provinces. The result has included the re-establishment of a two-year novitiate, and “separation” (of novices from others.) Many colleges exist, but they are useful in mission lands to carry on evangelization. He comments on major seminaries, especially one for Bulgarians in Salonika. He asks for volunteers. We now have twenty-four parishes in the whole Community. Usually they are places of pilgrimage or for missions. There will be a directory of parishes, as the last assembly decreed. Confreres in parishes should also give missions. The missions are doing well. We need workers for foreign missions, and he includes a list of the men recently sent out. The Daughters of Charity are doing well. Be loyal to the Holy See. He concludes with the necrology.

1883, 30 August, #16, pp. 171-185. Leo XIII has named Thomas Aquinas patron of universities. This is useful amid so many errors. There is a good connection of Thomas with Saint Vincent, and with the Saint Vincent de Paul Society. The Society worked on having Saint Vincent named as the patron of works of charity. This has been helped by the Jesuits and the archbishop of Paris. It was decreed by the pope on 26 April 1883, with positive results. A medal was struck for the event.

7 The General Curia is adapting a new title on official papers: “Congrégation de la Mission, dite des Lazaristes.” New documents are being prepared for the testimonial letters required for postulants. He is also interested in information on the bodies of reputed saints in various locations. The process for the canonization of Mademoiselle le Gras has begun. He concludes with official documents.

1884, 1 January, #17, pp. 187-198. He writes he annual New Year's letter on his way to Syria. He calls for obedience to superiors. He cites the example of Muslims at prayer, and recommends that superiors and visitors watch over the recitation of our prayers. He describes his recent visits. In Salzburg, a community joined the Daughters of Charity. He also visited Austrian houses, Poland, and Ireland, which has a plan to send men to Australia. In the Near East, the schools there help with evangelization. He gives a history of the Bulgarian mission, and notes their need for more confreres. He announces the deaths of men in the Community, and lists the bishops recently named. Niagara has been named a university. He comments on Apostolic Schools. He concludes with a list of men sent out on overseas missions, and with the necrology.

1884, 31 May, unnumbered, unpaged, 1 p. Some confreres are sorry that France does not have written histories of its houses, such as the Italians do. He asks that someone be appointed to work during their vacations to reconstitute the history of the Congregation in France. Gabriel Perboyre has gathered important documents already. We cannot wait any longer for this work.

1884, 20 August, #18, pp. 199-210. [Marked “Très important” by hand on one copy.] This letter marks the close of the eleventh sexennial assembly (5-7 May). Some delegates did not attend because of travel difficulties. They were free not to come. He recounts many successes and developments, such as with the Bulgarians. New apostolic schools have been opened. He communicates the results of the assembly. Confreres should work to have university degrees. Rules are sent out for cases of conscience. Genuflections are regulated,2 and Community privileges are explained. The assembly also regulated the designation of our own members to hear confessions. As to mass intentions and stipends, all concessions from the past have been revoked. He sends reprints of the decisions of the assembly of 1849 on the primitive spirit.

1885, 1 January, #19, pp. 211-224. He sends best wishes for the new year. The issues for the letter are: (1) The practice of poverty. Confreres should be detached and observe rules. (2) The directory on missions: these missions should be our first function. (3) Fraternal charity. NEWS: The causes of Perboyre and Mademoiselle le Gras are proceeding. There are some problems concerning the ownership of the Maison Mère. Vocations are increasing. He comments on France, Italy, Spain (where they suffer imprisonment), the Philippines, China, Portugal, Ireland (where the confreres are working with Daughters of Charity), Prussia, Krakow, the Orient (where the men are working with the Maronites in Lebanon, and in colleges), Persia, Egypt, and China (where there are some persecutions.) USA: God's blessings are evident. The confreres are working with Daughters of Charity. Mexico is suffering. In Latin America, there is much suffering by the Congregation and our bishops. He includes a list of missioners sent out. He recommends prayer for vocations, and concludes with the necrology.

1885, 24 February, to the priests of the Irish province; 7 pp., unnumbered. The superioress general has acquired an important house in Mill Hill to establish a central house for the British Isles. The confreres should help them in their work of service according to the

8 rules and decrees in force. He has appointed William Gavin as director of the new province of the Sisters. He wanted to appoint Duff, but could not because of the distance from Ireland. Instructions for giving conferences, and a reference to the Monita issues by the 1874 assembly concerning relations with the Sisters. Such services are unpaid.

1885, 13 June, #20, pp. 225-238. On his trip to Rome, the pope received him. Saint Vincent was declared universal patron of works of charity. The cause of Perboyre is advancing. We enjoy the good will of bishops. There were six major characteristics of Saint Vincent's charity: (1) to gain souls; (2) many journeys; (3) teacher and organizer; (4) all over the world; (5) its fecundity, leading to new works derived from the Congregation and the Daughters of Charity, like the Oblates of Mary Immaculate and the Marist community; (6) preservation against sectarianism, like Jansenism. He sends a copy of the decree.

1885, 9 July (#20 bis), 14 pp. Sends two rescripts about indulgences for the Patronage of St. Vincent. These need the approval of the local ordinaries to be published

1885, 27 November, unnumbered, unpaged. (Probably to French confreres.) He writes on a law governing taxation passed by the French government, and speaks of the new features of the Loi Brisson. He explains how to handle it. There are differences between our own property (listed) and the property that we simply occupy (also listed.) How to deal with tax collectors. There is a tax on gains. An inventory of property is needed, with special and accurate accounting, and a good account of gains.

1886, 1 January, #21, pp. 233 [bis]-246. He sends best wishes for the new year, even amid many uncertainties. (1) He sends out directories and particular rules. Their basis is found in the Common Rules, 11:1,12; 12:14, in the tradition of the Community and in Saint Vincent. (He quotes the circular from the assembly of 1867. [See Vol. III, p. 402].) (2) The Confraternity of Charity was called for by Saint Vincent, by assemblies, and by Pope Leo XIII (at least in general terms.) The provinces should try to reestablish it. NEWS: There are many new vocations. Problems in China; Ireland sending missioners to Australia. There are wars in the Near East and in Persia. The Chaldean breviary is to be printed by our confrere Paul Bedjan. News from Europe: Cardinal Charles M.A. Lavigerie approves of the Community, and reveres our martyr, Jean le Vacher. USA: progress is noted, and an apostolic school is planned. Americas—few in numbers, but progress is made. In France—the situation is very problematic. However, be cautious, and discreet. Missions and apostolic schools are doing well. As usual, he concludes with a list of missioners sent out, and the necrology for the past year.

1886, 25 January, #22, pp. 247-256. (For superiors, also consultors, procurators, and directors of the internal seminary.) A new general consultor has been appointed. The rules are to be reviewed, such as early rising, and terms for visitors and superiors (something requested for a long time.) No decision has been made on this, but visitors and superiors should exercise their authority modestly. In financial dealings, the visitors are obliged in conscience to be watchful. Take care not to have secret funds. The superior is to keep house money to himself, and to spend it wisely and carefully. Watch over income sources, also over the property of the house when a confrere moves, mass stipends, and the ability to help poor houses and provinces. Each province is to work on its own directory for Confraternities of Charity.

9 1887, 1 January, #23, pp. 257-270. He offers his wishes for the new year against the background of social problems. Thus, observe the rules, such as prayer, our duties, the problem of rushing through vocal prayers, following the spirit of the world. (He quotes Étienne extensively on this.) NEWS: In France we have lost two seminaries, and the minor seminary at Tours, but other opportunities exist. Some problems are resolved in China. Vocations are doing well. Our students at Dax are using the new text Nouvelle Théologie de Clermont. Take care to follow the new emphasis on higher studies coming from Leo XIII. The missions are doing well. A manual for the Ladies of Charity will be published. He concludes with a list of missioners sent out, and with the necrology for the year.

1887, 19 March, 2 pp., unpaged; lithographed. Requests participation of individuals to send a financial gift to Leo XIII for his golden jubilee of priesthood. Reasons: confirmed jurisdiction of superiors general over Daughters of Charity, proclaimed Vincent as patron of works of charity. Means: how to collect funds.

1888, 1 January, #24, pp. 271-286. He sends best wishes for the new year, and hopes for the beatification of the martyr, John Gabriel Perboyre, during the year. He cites Perboyre's example as a novice, student, young priest, teacher, parish priest, director of the internal seminary, and then missionary to China. He calls the present confreres to follow Perboyre's example, such as the celebration of mass, modest demeanor, and mutual charity. NEWS: Several confreres have been named bishops. This is an honor to the Community. Many confreres are pursuing degrees in Rome and Lyons. He gives brief notices on Italy, Spain, Portugal, Ireland (where confreres will be spiritual directors at Maynooth), Prussia (which has new vocations), Poland, Australia, the Bulgarian mission, Near East, Persia, Ethiopia (which is undergoing persecution), China. The Community in the USA is doing well. He mentions the house at Bordentown, N.J. Mexico has problems since there are only a few confreres. Hopes are high in South America. He concludes with a list of missioners sent out, and with the necrology.

1888, 4 September, unnumbered, unpaged. He announces the erection of the two American provinces, and describes their territories and visitors.

1889, 1 January, #25, pp. 287-302. The cause of Perboyre toward beatification is progressing. He develops the lessons to be learned from him, and recalls Chinese and other heroic missioners. He hopes for a spiritual flowering from this. Every province has good men, so the confreres should not speak against anyone. The missions are progressing. Superiors should read to their confreres his circular of 1 January 1881, and that of Étienne of 1 November 1862. Follow the simplicity of the directories. Concerning the practice of poverty, the confreres should be watchful over expenses, and useless touring. He cites the example of Perboyre in this regard. NEWS: There is not much news. We will have a house of studies in Rome. He went to Rome recently, and met cardinals, etc. USA: The nation is now divided into two provinces, and he hopes that De Andreis will bless the new provinces. Seminaries have been accepted in Australia, and Brazil. Good work is being done in Ethiopia and Lebanon. He concludes with the annual list of missioners sent out, and the necrology. He includes the decree on the martyrdom of Perboyre.

1889, 14 October, unpaged, lithographed.

10 Announces beatification of Perboyre for 10 November.

1889, 29 November, #26, pp. 303-309 (+2). He announces the beatification of John Gabriel Perboyre. He participated in the ceremonies at Saint Peter's and Monte Citorio. Perboyre is the first Vincentian martyr to be beatified. He could have been beatified as a confessor, so virtuous was his life. He sends out regulations for the celebration of a triduum, and annual feast, with special celebration in the refectory. He hopes this event will influence the Double Family well, and will lead to virtue after Perboyre's example, and in imitation of the passion of Jesus, as confreres have been urging.

1889 [not dated otherwise], 2 pp., lithographed Deals with issue of Communion in religious communities, here about Daughters of Charity. Reviews the history of this. The issue is that the Daughters are not allowed to receive communion, by their rules, except when they have permission from superiors, on other days than those prescribed by the rules. He and his council believe that the Holy See did not intend to change this point of the rule given by a saint, Vincent de Paul.

1890, 1 January, #27, pp. 310-320 (+2). He writes more on Perboyre, and hopes for graces for the Congregation, and growth in virtue. Thus, the confreres should observe the rules, be obedient, show priestly spirit, interior spirit, piety, and exactness. The Community houses should grow in virtue, to show good dispositions, and mutual charity. He gives rules about the Daughters of Charity, on how to give conferences, and to hear their confessions. Preparations are also being made for a general assembly this year. NEWS: There is not much to report, but universal military service in France is obligatory for all. There is a new visitor of China for all houses (this was the wish of the Holy See.) Good progress is perceived elsewhere, such as Mexico, Brazil (after its revolution), USA, Persia. He concludes with the usual list of missioners sent out and the annual necrology.

1890, 16 April, unnumbered, unpaged, signed, in Spanish, for confreres in Spain. Objections to appendices in the Spanish translation of Arthur Loth dealing with Vincent’s birthplace in Spain, the Armengol case, and the Daughters of Charity.

1890, [June/July], unpaged, 2 pp. Concession of indulgences for the prayer O Mary, conceived without sin, etc. (Dated Rome, 19 July 1890).

1890, 20 October, #28, pp. 321-332 (+4). The general assembly has closed (28 July - 6 August). He had hoped to resign in view of his infirmities, but could not. He relates the work of the assembly. Commissioners were selected to review the postulata submitted. He reports on the causes of confreres for beatification, Clet, François, Folchi, Jean le Vacher, Justin de Jacobis. The assembly made a few changes in the rules of offices, and dealt with the issue of confessions. The assembly recommended apostolic schools and missions. We should not accept other smaller works, like retreats, Forty Hours devotions, etc. It also discussed the Confraternity of Charity. Our parishes must have missions given in them, too. Studies for the priesthood should include two years of philosophy, four of theology. The assembly called especially for the study of holy scripture. For seminaries the confreres should know the students and be with them. There is to be reading at table, even on vacations. Reading of newspapers is restricted to priests, and only one paper, but not a political or literary one (for which he quotes Étienne.) Be careful to observe poverty concerning trips, tours, books, gifts. He adds a copy of the decrees of the assembly.

11 1890, 7 November, #29, pp. 333-342. (For superiors and consultors.) He recommends that the confreres study the decrees of the general assembly, his own circulars, and the letter of 1673 on how to remedy faults in inferiors. They should read the rules and maxims of Saint Vincent occasionally, especially about the hour of rising, reading the letters of confreres, granting permission for travels and visits, walks for novices, work of the brothers, and temporal administration. They should write regularly to major superiors with reports. Also, they should be careful and exact in these reports. At the death of a confrere, write about his virtues. He concludes with more on poverty issues.

1891, 1 January, #30, pp. 343-353. Blessings and honors came to the Congregation in the last year, and he hopes for growth in virtue, like that of Perboyre. He urges observance of the rules, such as the hour of rising, daily prayer, and spiritual reading. In France, there are problems with the government about military conscription for students. In Algeria, there is progress. The causes of various Vincentians and of Mademoiselle le Gras are progressing. A bibliography has been prepared for a Vincentian library. NEWS: In Spain, the issue of the real birthplace of Saint Vincent is much discussed. Prussia has helped Mexico. There are new bishops in Persia and China. He concludes with the list of missioners sent out, and with the annual necrology.

1891, 4 May, #31, pp. 354-357. He writes about the treatment of the Daughters of Charity by confreres, now that the decree Quemadmodum has come out. It deals with internal forum matters and confessors.

1891, 4 September [Announced, but not located]

1892, 1 January, #32, pp. 358-370. For the new year, he calls for observance of the rules, citing Saint Vincent and others (including Community directories). He recalls past Community heroes. He also comments on particular rules, such as saving the reputations of others, trips, using goods as one's own, purchasing of special items, and maintaining poverty in one's own room. NEWS: In France, many missions are given, but too many men are involved in other works to give missions. He makes recommendations about the work of the missions, such as being informed about them, etc. The number of seminarians is growing. In Ireland, a new seminary for the foreign missions is to be accepted [All Hallows]. He relates news of other seminaries in Australia and Ecuador (we had been forced to withdraw, but now will stay), Italy, Spain, the Philippines. Our colleges are progressing. The work with Daughters of Charity is good, especially South America in view of epidemics and other crises. The causes of our beati are progressing. He concludes with the annual list of missioners sent out. New bishops have been chosen from among our confreres. There are problems in China, Macedonia, and Syria. He adds the annual necrology.

1892, 1 January, printed, unsigned, unnumbered, 2 pp., entitled “Avis de Monsieur Notre Très Honoré Père.” In view of difficult times, he urges observance of the traditional devotions of the Red Scapular and the Holy Agony. Suggests meetings to animate the members and/or to have a formal establishment of these works.

1892, 29 June, #33, pp. 371-376. He writes on vacations, particularly for missioners and teachers. These are good, but there are many dangers. (1) Take vacations within the Community. (2) Maintain common spiritual exercises in the houses, and thus either the superior or assistant superior has to be at home. (3) Concerning finances, confreres never have a right to Community money. (4) There is to be no touring, since this

12 is against poverty. (5) Maintain early rising; this is our rule. (6) Maintain reading at table. Étienne wanted this, too. There are some financial problems in France.

1892, 20 September, #34, pp. 377-380. The jubilee of Pope Leo XIII is approaching. He reflects on the role of the pope in the Church, according to Bernard of Clairvaux. We are indebted to Leo XIII for proclamation of Saint Vincent as patron of works of charity. He recommends masses, prayers, and financial gifts for the pope. He is making the same recommendation to the Daughters of Charity.

1893, 1 January, #35, pp. 381-396 (+4). God's providence is operative for the new year. We should love the Lord, and rely on God alone. Let us attach ourselves to the maxims of Jesus Christ, and thus be mortified, and deny ourselves. The Maison Mère needs money. This has not been sent from some places. He sends a document about the ordination and dismissal of scholastics. There is a new secretary general, Alfred Milon. He recalls the three previous secretaries, Vincent Terrasson, Jean-Baptiste Pémartin, and Joseph Doumerq. He recommends that provinces use local men to give seminary retreats. NEWS: There is a new house in Toulouse. Progress is being made in the missions. Do not accept other works, especially on one's own initiative. Algeria—death of Cardinal Lavigerie. Italy— problems with the military conscription law. Spain—death of Mariano Maller. Portugal—fruits are appearing from the apostolic school. Ireland—All Hallows College coming to the Congregation; the confreres also work in Australia. Germany—they have begun a new work in Costa Rica. In Austria- Hungary, progress is noted. Turkey—progress in the schools, but the Bulgarian mission is suffering. Ethiopia, Persia, China—progress amid difficulties. The Philippines experience progress. USA—the death of Alexius Mandine is noted. Central America—growth in the seminaries. In South America and Brazil there are few confreres, but growth is seen. The list of missioners sent out is added, as is the annual necrology. He concludes with the decree (in Latin) on students.

1894, 1 January, #36, pp. 397-412. He sends his best wishes for the new year. The Congregation is the work of a saint. He sends best wishes also for all the provinces. They are like so many branches of a tree, each with its own “autonomy, and patriotic love.” Likewise, he offers best wishes for the houses and for individual members, and to all the many Vincentian works, including schools, seminaries (the confreres should be models of Christ to the seminarians), missions, confessors of the Daughters of Charity. NEWS: He had a papal audience last 25 January. The pope seems content with our work. Fiat wants the Annales de la Congrégation de la Mission to appear in several languages. The first to do so was Spain; then Italy and Austria. He hopes for English-speaking countries. Confreres should also be sure to read them. France is progressing. China—many difficulties. Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay—difficulties from civil wars and other problems. This is true also in Spanish-speaking provinces, like Central America, and Mexico. USA—There is a good number of vocations. The seminaries are good, also the parishes and missions; a new seminary to be opened in Saint Louis [Kenrick Seminary]. Spain has vocations. Portugal, Poland, Prussia—government approval has been given; they may begin new missions in the Americas. Ireland has confreres working in Australia. In Italy there are three provinces, with new houses. Good progress in colleges in the near east. There are many problems in Ethiopia. In summary, he mentions “the considerable [number of] parishes which we have, particularly in the United States.” He offers praise for the brothers. He concludes with the annual necrology.

13 1894, 11 February, #36 bis, unpaged. He calls for the superiors of the major seminaries in France and Algeria to a meeting, 8 July, in Paris. They will study the directory, and invite others elsewhere to study it as well. He renews his call for reading at table, to be done during the whole time of the meal, in all houses, and always.

1894, 11 February, #36 bis (2), printed, unpaged, 2 pp.; (perhaps an appendix to the foregoing). Program for the meeting: questions about piety, discipline, teaching, works of zeal.

1894, 15 August, #36 ter, unpaged. He reports on the seminary meeting with French and Algerian confreres. Their work dealt with questions and answers and discussions on the following areas: (1) Teaching: (a) Could daily class periods be lengthened to one hour and a half? (b) Are seminarians well enough trained in argumentation? (c) Is there written work at times? (d) Are written exams held along with oral exams? (e) Is public argumentation held monthly as the directory prescribes? (f) Should any modification be made about training of professors in Bible? (g) Is canon law given sufficient prominence? (h) How to handle the relationship between philosophy and theology when students have military service? (i) What about music and chant? (2) Discipline: (a) Should the time for ordination be specified as the Ember Days? (b) Do seminarians persevere while on their military service? (3) Piety and works of zeal: (a) Should a manual of piety be published? (b) Should there be monthly days of recollection? (c) Should there be public forums on social questions? (d) How to help priests persevere especially in dechristianized parishes? He mentions his own work, such as beginning the International House in Rome.

1894, 20 August, #36 quater, officially unnumbered, unpaged. This is a special letter on issues about Vincentian seminaries. (1) There has been some negligence in attending seminarians' recreation. For this, he refers to the decree of the assembly of 1774. Observe the rule, and give conferences on this subject. (2) Changes were suggested by the meeting of French and Algerian confreres on seminaries, 11 February 1894. (a) Some changes are to be made, with respect. (b) Some others were suggested. (c) The superior general was asked to do so. The next assembly will decide on this finally. Seminaries will be asked to send suggestions. (3) Questions on help for younger professors. (a) Continue to send to Rome; (b) He recommends that they be diffident in themselves and docile. (c) Superiors should help young professors to read and follow the rules. For success with young professors, have them do proper studies, study, and meditate on the directory, know the rules, have a good manual for teaching. Professors are also to care for newly ordained priests. Some changes are needed here, but show them affability. There is no need to have a daily walk with students if this is not serviceable. Deo gratias at table3 may be needed to help the students, but silence should be kept when they are absent. The Common Rules are very clear on this. He cites other motives. In conclusion, he asks for prayer.

1894, 7 September [Date of the rescript], 1 p. Petition to celebrate the proper mass of the Miraculous Medal in the churches and oratories of the Daughters of Charity. Granted. (Texts in French and Latin)

1894, 27 September, #37, pp. 413-424. (To Vincentians and Daughters.) He announces the establishment of the feast of the Miraculous Medal for 27 November. There is a special feast and office, from official recognition by the Holy See of the Medal, and its supernatural origins. The medal is symbolic, embodying lessons from scripture. It encourages prayer, and the Rosary.

14 Consider the reverse of the face. It portrays the cross of Christ, and many graces flow from it. He calls for faith in the Immaculate Conception. He offers procedures for the celebrations in Paris and elsewhere. The Blessed Virgin Mary has preserved the Double Family, especially after the French Revolution. Fruits from this celebration should be greater devotion to the passion, with emphasis on the scapular of the passion, and the Holy Agony devotion. This came from the general assembly of 1867. Personal holiness and discipline are called for.

1894, 15 November, #38, pp. 425-432. (To Vincentians and Daughters.) There are new spiritual favors connected with the feast of the Miraculous Medal and with a triduum. Indulgences have been granted. He sends copies of the pertinent Roman decrees.

1894, 14 December, #38 bis, 1 p., to superiors of major seminaries Sends proposal for revision of the directory for major seminaries, and asks input, hoping for replies by 1 May.

1895, 1 January, #39, pp. 433-444. He offers his best wishes for the new year, and recalls the feast of the Miraculous Medal. He writes some reflections on the Immaculate Conception and its meaning. This event led to the veneration of Mary, the new Eve. These considerations should lead us to obey our rules, all the rules. Confreres should obey superiors, especially about leaving the house, visiting others, and sending letters. Long trips (tours) are against poverty. NEWS: Good results are noted from the recent meeting on seminaries. Ethiopia—a new vicariate is ours. Eastern Churches and China have new Roman rules. Elsewhere, all is proceeding well. He concludes with the annual necrology.

1895, 7 January 1895, #39 bis, unpaged, 2 pp. (To superiors of mission houses in France) Summons a meeting on the missions, a reflection of the directory of missions, for 16 June.

1895, 19 July, #39 ter, unpaged, 21 pp. Reflects on meeting on missions: (1) about the directory and a proposed revision, plus a manual of missions, with prayers, canticles, etc. (2) Obstacles to the missions, coming from clergy, laity and the missioners, such as lack of preparation, of mortification, mutual understanding on the mission team, and lack of obedience. How to overcome these problems. The role of the smaller works accepted between the larger missions. (3) Missioners and missions: problems encountered, especially for the young; conflict between solitude at home and public ministry on the missions; at least two missioners, never only one. Handling different categories of attendees; various general communions; dialogue conferences?; too much ceremony at times? (4) Works of zeal. Preaching to local clergy? Founding a Confraternity of Charity? Other works? Promote frequent communion? Open our houses to others to make retreats?

1895, 26 September, #39 quater, unpaged, 4 pp. Deals with a Vincentian response to the French “loi d’abonnement” (involving taxation on recognized religious congregations). Discusses the possibility of resistance, judicially or extrajudicially. This will reduce our ability to serve the poor and the French foreign missions. This is probably just the beginning of worse times.

1895, 5 September, unnumbered, unpaged. (Autographed; apparently to European visitors.) He discusses more problems about French tax laws (see 27 November 1885.) The issues need to be decided by the majority. Should we or should we not submit ourselves to this law? He gives reasons both for and against resistance. There is real danger of being forced to abandon our French seminaries. He discusses the role of the bishops and the public press. There are reasons for being passive, waiting out the situation. He recalls Saint Vincent's attitudes. Should we be passive?

1896, 1 January, #40, pp. 445-460. This has been a difficult year, but do good works, and keep the rules. This is a source of blessings. There are many problems in the world, but these have been held in check by divine grace. Keep the rules and they will keep you. This is the heritage of Saint Vincent, and the wish of the Blessed Virgin Mary to restore our Community and its fervor. He cites the advantages in this. NEWS: There is not too much big news, but some problems have been avoided. France—the meeting of missioners led to good results. The same is true in Ireland. Seminaries are making good progress. A manual for seminarians has been prepared. In Rome, a new house has been bought, Nicolo da Tolentino. It will be used for the International House. Each province should send more men to study in Rome. Turkey and Syria—revolutions. Persia—financial problems. Ethiopia—many difficulties, and the vicariate there is almost non-existent. We will take one in Madagascar. He recalls the former mission there. China is improving. In South America, there is good progress, but it is hard work for only a few men. Ecuador—revolution. Colombia has helped refugees from Ecuador. USA: The provinces have hopes for more work on the missions. They will send men to Rome. He also reviews other works, such as the Holy Agony devotion. He encourages the visitors to send in accounts of the life and virtues of deceased confreres. In conclusion, the annual necrology.

1896, 4 September, #41, pp. 461-472. The twelfth sexennial assembly has taken place (28-30 July). It made no big decisions, apart from deciding on the postulata from the provinces, which he lists and then answers. (1) There are financial problems in the Maison Mère. (2) Decisions have been made on the curriculum of the apostolic schools based on new laws in force in France; he calls for a meeting of interested parties for the following summer. (3) He discusses confreres going over the heads of their superior to the visitor, and of the visitor to the superior general. (4) Better training is needed for brothers. (5) He asks for a collection of the writings of Saint Vincent for retreat readings. (6) A new edition of our privileges is called for. (7) The Jesuits and Redemptorists have received more indulgences for their missions. He has hopes for the mission, and calls for strict observance of rules, such as exercises of piety, meditation in common, eight days retreat, reading at table, mortification at meals. He offers motives for the use of the Scapular of the Passion, and the Holy Agony devotion. He recalls rules of poverty, and touring. Charity is to be shown to all. Visitors should send in written reports. Work with the Daughters and keep the rules.

1897, 1 January, #42, pp. 473-488. He offers his best wishes for the new year. He hopes for close links with the head of the Congregation by individual confreres, “that they all be one.” Thus, be submissive and charitable. He offers motives and means for this, particularly the example of Jesus, “He was subject to them.” NEWS: Maison Mère and Dax—vocations. Germany. There was a gift of a royal palace to the Community in Hungary. New provinces have been erected for the Antilles, similar to the Philippines. Italy—losses of men in death, and to the episcopacy. Apostolic schools are working to produce vocations, as in Poland and Portugal. Men have been sent to the province of the Orient, and to Madagascar, and new men are to be sent to China. USA: There are many vocations. He hopes that more men can do mission work. Mexico, Central and South America, and Brazil—many problems in these countries with revolutions, etc. He returns to the theme of unity through obedience, and concludes with the regular necrology.

1897, 25 February, unnumbered, 2 pp., manuscript, signed. He is going to purchase property in Rome for an international house of studies for Vincentians going to work for the formation of the clergy, as Leo XIII wishes. It has been purchased

16 in the name of several members from different countries, as a way to avoid possible confiscation. He relies on the generosity of provinces to support the purchase and maintenance of the house.

1897, 7 November, #43, pp. 489-492. There is an obligation to write to the superior general, and to the visitor. He cites motives and means for this. All those with offices are required to write, giving notes and information on personnel.

1898, 1 January, #44, pp. 493-508. This is his twentieth anniversary letter. Beware of “naturalism,” i.e., living according to the flesh and modern life. He quotes Étienne on this subject. Immoderate love of parents and too much visiting lead to bad results. NEWS: Maison Mère—the confreres celebrated the solemn coronation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The meeting of minor seminary directors led to a good exchange of ideas. He summarizes the results. Good growth is noted elsewhere in Europe. We have been allowed to return to Ethiopia. There is also good news from Madagascar. In the Americas, there has been good progress, even amid revolutions. Therefore all should try to avoid political discussions in houses. He concludes with a list of missioners sent out, and with the necrology.

1898, 11 February, 2 pp., signed; lithographed. For CM in Brazil. Giving some paternal advice, in addition to the news of the new visitor [Clavelin]. Problems caused by the hot climate in Brazil: murmuring and criticism; and too much relaxation and search for comfort. Too much blame of superiors because you have too much work to do. Inform major superiors of problems, and support them. – About the climate: do not adopt what the local clergy do to tolerate the heat.

1898, 4 September, unnumbered, unpaged, 6 pp. (To Daughters, Vincentians in Italy.) Reports on a letter received from pope, Leo XIII. His Holiness was disturbed by "a certain agitation which seemed to be dividing the spirits of our members in certain parts of Italy," i.e., Rome and Naples. Text of letter in Latin, dated 1 August 1898, with French translation. Issue deals with some members who objected to the center being in France, although this was "the will of Saint Vincent and with assent of the Roman Pontiffs." Bases unrest of the devil. Urges peace and unity. The superior general represents [takes the place of] Jesus Christ in the Congregation. Provincials have a similar responsibility as do local superiors. Authority is paternal. This is the same for the Daughters of Charity. Orders prayers for this intention.

1898, 7 November, unnumbered, 4 pp. Sends meditation book, “composed exclusively for us.” Refers to his circular of 25 January 1881 calling for input and suggestions, and which was generously answered. Found a confrere to write the book, made revisions, finally approved it for printing. He hopes it will be well used and useful for the promotion of piety.

1898, 27 November, unnumbered, unpaged, 4 pp. He sends a meditation book to the Community. He describes how the work was done, written, and reviewed. He hopes for translations to be done in other countries. The text made use of Saint Vincent, the decrees of assemblies, directories, etc.

1899, 1 January, #45, pp. 509-522. He writes on mental prayer. Keep the rule in this regard. Everyone has urged it in the past. He offers motives and advantages for doing so, and cites the example of John Gabriel Perboyre for our betterment, as well as the example of the passion of Christ. He likewise recalls the Scapular of the Passion, the Holy Agony devotion, etc.

17 NEWS: He reports on the letter of Leo XIII about the cessation of troubles in the provinces of Rome and Naples against Paris. He reports, too, on the nomination of several confreres as bishops. The house of studies in Rome now has seventeen men. There have been positive results from the summer meetings held on seminaries, and apostolic schools. He has high hopes for the missions. In Spain, there are problems with the government. Other calamities elsewhere: Greece, Persia, Ethiopia. Madagascar and China are improving. He concludes with a list of the missioners sent out, and with the necrology.

1899, 1 January, unnumbered, unpaged. (Lithographed.) 3 pp. He calls to mind some abuses about money. Accountability is demanded, particularly towards the superior general. He sends standard forms to help in this.

1899, 12 April, 2 pp., signed; lithographed. For CM, concerning Toursainte, and the recent death of Salvayre. Appointing François Valette as visitor of Provence.

1899, 15 May, #46, pp. 523-530. He announces the death of Jules Chevalier, and speaks of his life, virtues, work on the Miraculous Medal, and for the Children of Mary. Bishops and clergy respected him. He was a model of service to the Daughters. All confreres should be generous to them, but not too close, especially with spiritual direction. Thus, all should observe rules drawn up about them. He quotes Étienne on this subject.

1899, 1 August, #47, pp. 531 bis-536 bis. After the death of Jules Chevalier, he names Philippe Meugniot as his assistant and admonitor. He also calls for regular meetings of domestic and provincial councils, and cites the advantages of having an admonitor.

1900, 1 January, #48, pp. 537-552. He sends his best wishes for the new year. This year marks the anniversary of the priestly ordinations of Saint Vincent and Clet. Confreres should show respect for the holy rules. The motive is that they help us to arrive at perfection. The rules will keep us. They call down God's blessings on us. Have a love for the Community (as Pius IX called for.) Ways to keep the rules include reading, reflection, and not changing them. NEWS: There is war in the Philippines. Astonishing progress is noted in China. Conversions take place in Madagascar and Persia. He offers notes on the Turkish Empire, Greece, and the Bulgarian mission. Polish confreres will go to Brazil. He concludes with notes on other European provinces, and Central and South America. USA: The provinces have been prosperous, and have sent students to Rome. Papal approval of the Congregation continues. The causes of our confreres are progressing: Perboyre, Clet, de Jacobis, and also Louise de Marillac, and Catherine Labouré. He concludes with notes on the Italian provinces and France.

1900, 25 January, #48 bis, pp. 1-6 (but unpaged in the series). He writes of the results of the council's deliberations about the apostolic schools. We need to be careful about funds, administration, etc. Thus, there are several new rules: about admission of students, and charges. A study of the health of the students should be undertaken, since too much crowding fosters tuberculosis. There should be medical certificates of their health. If tuberculosis is present, send the student home. These reports are also needed for the internal seminary. To handle tuberculosis cases, insist on cleanliness, a good laundry, etc. (He quotes Leo XIII at length.) He includes procedures for disinfection.

1900, 3 April, unnumbered, unpaged, small format, lithographed.

18 Announces beatification of François-Regis Clet, scheduled for 27 May 1900. Special triduum planned for Paris, 26-28 June. Recommends prayer for zeal like Clet’s.

1900, 24 April, 3 pp., signed; lithographed. For CM in Brazil. About resignation of Clavelin, in office since 11 February 1898. Appoints Pierre Dehaene, superior in Angers seminary. – Several nationalities working in Brazil; the men should not say anything that would wound patriotism of other countries. Brazil is your second homeland now, and you should have love for it. – Recalls obedience to rules, respect for authority, fraternal charity; avoid relaxations caused by the hot weather.

1900, 29 June, #49, pp. 553-564. He reports on the beatification of Francis Regis Clet. Clet was sent as delegate to the general assembly from Lyons, 1788. Confreres gave recognition of his hard work and virtue. He worked in China for thirty years, and underwent heroic sufferings. Feasts were held in his honor in Rome and elsewhere. Clet observed the rules carefully, and we should do the same. He concludes with the texts of the relevant papal documents.

1900, 20 August, #50, unpaged. (To superiors and consultors.) There are many problems in the Congregation, but God's providence remains. He calls for an end to “naturalism” and for a return to devotion, and observance of rules. He calls also for an end to nationalism. Thus, we should observe the rules, and be detached from families. The authorized reading of newspapers (in 1849) has led to some abuses. Permission of the superior general will be needed to subscribe to political journals. Confreres should avoid exclusive nationalism and murmuring against authority. The rules will safeguard the Congregation, especially daily meditation, general examen, office in common, and silence. Other obligations are weekly, monthly, and yearly. Superiors should hold domestic councils, and keep good financial records.

1900, 14 September, unnumbered, unpaged. (Autographed.) This letter concerns vacations for missioners. Traditionally the vacation season ran from Saint John's day to All Saints. Confreres were Carthusians at home in that period. He gives other suggestions about good conduct of missions: be modest in ceremonies, especially for the jubilee. Leave the papal jubilee celebrations to the pastors. Be prudent in preaching and in dealing with the press. Also, communicate this letter to the diocesan bishop.

1900, 21 November, #51, unpaged. (To visitors, superiors, consultors, directors of the internal seminaries.) We should observe the rules, hierarchy, and order, and not act out of any personal whim. (He quotes the rules to this effect.) We should not allow relaxations in them or give permission for changes. He wants the superiors and others to observe practice of writing to the superior general officially. He has now reviewed the problems and has determined exactly when and how to write for visitors, superiors, directors of the internal seminary, consultors, admonitors, and provincial consultors. He wants information from each house.

1901, 1 January, #52, pp. 565-580. He sends best wishes for the new century and the new year. He hopes that the Community will place its hope in God, and will observe the pure intention of serving God. The duties to God should be well observed: daily prayers, office in common. There are also duties to self: observe safeguards, such as the permission to leave the house, to go on journeys, mortifications, murmuring against superiors (quoting Étienne, 1845), and against each other. NEWS: There have been disasters in China, and deaths of several confreres in Peking. He hopes for God's blessings in return. There have been deaths at Pe-Tang as well. Ethiopia—many problems despite some royal approval. Madagascar and elsewhere—avoid political entanglements, as

19 the directory for the missions states. He discusses how to deal with Protestants and other heretics. The causes of our people are progressing: Perboyre, Louise de Marillac, Catherine Labouré, Clet, de Jacobis, De Andreis, and Elizabeth Seton. He concludes with the annual list of missioners sent out.

1901, 27 March, #53, pp. 581 bis-582 bis. He announces the resignation of his consultor, Salvatore Stella, a man respected by all. Stella wrote a history of the Congregation in Italy. Vincent Tasso is his replacement.

1901, 15 May, unnumbered; decree of Congregation of the Inquisition (Probably sent with another document). Concerns power and obligation of superiors to denounce to the Holy Office immediately their confreres guilty of crimes.

1901 (?), undated, unsigned, 3 pp. For French provinces and/or houses. Sends information about responding to the requirements of the French law of 1 July 1901 concerning the properties owned by individual houses. [Perhaps from secretary general or econome general, not superior general.]

1902, 1 January, #54, pp. 583-594. He sends his best wishes for the new year, and his prayer for peace. There are powerful forces arrayed against the Church. Peace is necessary, and will be a defense against the breakdown of the moral order. A general assembly is planned, with domestic and provincial assemblies in preparation. He calls for the observance of the rules, and of the primitive spirit. Consequently, follow the decrees of previous assemblies. For the new assembly, try to avoid drafting new rules, and follow the old ones. Also try to keep peace and the spirit of prayer. He also calls for financial reports. NEWS: The Community has had to give up some parishes in France. Elsewhere, we are doing well. Portugal is improving. There are anti-clerical problems in Austria and Hungary. Spain is doing well, despite laws against communities. Italy, too. In Ethiopia, missioners have been expelled from some places. In the Near East, the colleges are prospering. Good beginnings are being made in Madagascar. China is recovering [from the Boxer rebellion]. In Central America, there are some problems because of the war in Colombia. He concludes with the usual list of missioners sent out, and the necrology for the past year.

1902, 15 September, #55, pp. 595-608. He reports good results from the general assembly (27 July - 3 August), despite some agitation in the preparatory steps. Unity and zeal were renewed. The assembly agreed to keep him as superior general, although he tried to resign because of his health. New assistants were named. The main issues were the institution of a mass for the primitive spirit, and regulations on mass for deceased confreres. Otherwise, make no changes in published directories, but refer questions on them to the superior general. The assembly called for the renewal of the Confraternity of Charity. Spread the devotion of the Miraculous Medal. On the “new opinions,” beware; observe Catholic truth and papal teaching. “I wish that the pope's words may be for us like the words of the Gospel.” He also discusses the role of the director of students and his relationship with other superiors. In difficult political situations, decisions are to be made about money, spending, and contracts. The permission of the superior general is needed for confreres to publish. Regular correspondence with superior general is formalized by a decree. He adds items taken from some provincial assemblies: on students, on bad magazines (contrary to faith). He warns of using postal cards, and speaks of confessions and the proper screening of postulants. He closes by calling for respect for the hierarchy and our rules. Visitors are to be vigilant.

1903, 1 January, #56, pp. 609-624.

20 There are many problems on the horizon, but we should be confident. This was the message of the Blessed Virgin Mary to Catherine Labouré. NEWS: This section is devoted to the visitors and the provinces. The confreres in France had to leave the minor seminaries, and could work only in foreign missions. There may be some relaxations in this governmental decree, and bishops are working for us (against our having to leave seminaries.) We have written to various government ministers, and we rely on God alone. Work in Germany itself is impeded. In Austria-Hungary, there is imperial favor toward the Congregation. Poland is prospering. Spain, too, but there are some problems in the war with the USA. He has decided to divide Spain into two provinces. In Ireland, the confreres are carrying on consoling work in seminaries. Italy is progressing. Portugal is calm. In Turkey, the confreres are being helped by French protection against Muslims, especially about schools. In Ethiopia there is a new calm. In China, some problems remain; maybe we will open a house of studies. USA: There is prosperity and many vocations. The cause of Felix De Andreis will be introduced. For Mexico and other provinces in Central and South America, there is prosperity amid some problems, and the loss of some men to the episcopacy. Many missioners have been sent out (as a result of the houses closed in France.) The Maison Mère is the “rule and model of all the houses of the Congregation.” He includes letters to and from Leo XIII on the results of the assembly, and concludes with the annual necrology.

1903, 14 April, unnumbered, unpaged. (Autographed; probably to French confreres.) He asks what is to be done do with our personnel in France [now that houses have been closed]. Some can go to foreign missions, but these are very difficult assignments. Other places need help. Confreres should remain obedient to the rules and to divine providence.

1903, 26 July, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, to the province of Austria, 2 pp. The many nationalities in the province have led to some problems brought about by nationalism, lack of charity, etc.

1904, 1 January, #57, pp. 625-638. He sends his best wishes amid many trials and losses. He hopes for a great devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary as a result of the fiftieth anniversary of the proclamation of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception. He recommends certain practices to commemorate it, such as communion on the eighth of each month, an act of consecration (on 8 December), and the regular invocation of Mary: “O Mary conceived without sin . . . .” He hopes for greater attention to common prayer, and its manner of recitation, likewise in the divine office. NEWS: France—almost all the houses are closed, and the men have been sent elsewhere for missions and for work in other countries. This has left the Maison Mère without money. He recalls the death of Leo XIII, and reviews the pope's care for the Double Family. He is much taken with Pius X. Other provinces are prosperous: Germany, Austria-Hungary, Spain, Catalonia, Ireland, Italy (new houses are possible in Italy), Poland (and Brazil). In Portugal there are problems. The Bulgarian mission is facing some dangers. In China, there is progress in baptisms and vocations. Progress, too, in Ethiopia and Madagascar. He reports the death of the Baroness de Gargan, a great benefactress. USA: He comments on the visitation by his extraordinary commissary or representative, Constant Demion. Demion attests to progress in the two provinces. He reports on Mexico, the Antilles, the Philippines, Colombia (which received some faculty from Angoulême to teach in their seminary.) Other men came from France to the province of the Pacific. New houses were opened in Holland (including Panningen), and he gives reasons. He adds an appendix on confessions by our members, who are now permitted to go to any confessor. He concludes with the annual necrology.

1904, 23 January, unnumbered, lithographed, 1 p., incomplete

21 The forced closure of Vincentian houses in France has left many men with little work. For this reason, Fiat reorganized the houses of the Daughters of Charity to be visited by the confreres to give conferences and hear confessions.

1904, 23 January, unnumbered, lithographed, 2 pp., signed. [In view of recent decisions by the French government] Concerns ministry to the Daughters of Charity, parishes, eating with the Sisters, etc., in reference to the Monita recently issued.

1904, 13 April, unnumbered, handwritten and signed Announces the creation of the province of Belgium-Holland; Mr. Celestin Duez is named visitor. The reason is the increase of houses in these two countries following the closure of French houses.

1904, 6 July, unnumbered, lithographed, 2 pp., to province of Argentina M. Bettembourg, former econome general, is named visitor of the province of Argentina, after resignation for health reasons of M. Révellière. Fiat hopes that contacts with the Daughters of Charity will be rare, outside of ministry that brings them into contact with the confreres.

1904, 5 December, unnumbered, handwritten and signed Announces the division of the Province of the Pacific into two, Ecuador and Pacific (with Chile and Peru). Fargues is named visitor of the Pacific, with seat at Santiago.

1905, 1 January, #58, pp. 639-654. He reflects on the fiftieth anniversary of the dogma of the Immaculate Conception, and on the role of Mary. Rely on her to help us out of our problems; we as Vincentians should take the lead in promotion of Marian devotion. NEWS: with the help of French clergy, we have opened houses in Belgium and erected the province of Holland. There are also foreign houses in England, Denmark, the Maronite seminary in Rome, and two other seminaries in Italy. We were asked to do so by the pope. He recalls the directory of seminaries and its major points: all Vincentians are to have a part in spiritual direction, in general discipline, in conferences and retreats, and in vocational decisions. The call to orders is based on the student evaluation by the rector. He covers news from Germany, Austria-Hungary, Poland (which will erect house in the USA.) Spain has many vocations, and is giving help in Mexico, the Philippines, the Antilles and elsewhere. Portugal is calm. Ireland, too. The near east has a house in Jerusalem. Persia is showing growth. In Ethiopia there are many problems. In Madagascar, there are problems with finances, following the death of the Baroness de Gargan. In China, the emphasis is on converts. There are Chinese vocations. USA: He reports the death of Anthony Verrina, the last of the old group of Italian missioners who knew De Andreis and Joseph Rosati. Central America is experiencing some problems. He has rearranged the boundaries of the province of the Pacific; remarks on the provinces of Argentina and Brazil. He concludes with the usual list of missioners sent out because of the expulsions from France, and comments on the deaths of Stella and Gustave Foing. Stella was the Italian assistant (in the seat reserved for Italians.) There are now more clergy at the Maison Mère, but fewer candidates. The last item is the annual necrology.

1905, 2 March, handwritten, 2 pp. (In French, unsigned; and Spanish, signed) Manuel Orriols is appointed provincial of Barcelona in place of Jaume, who has generously resigned. The health of Orriols has improved enough to allow this to happen. He had been for many years in the Philippines.

1905, 29 August, unnumbered, unpaged. (To missioners in China.)

22 He writes a special letter to them on the occasion of the new visitor, Claude-Marie Guilloux, “our representative among you.” He recalls the work of the former visitor. As missioners you have a special vocation (beyond being Vincentians.) There have been many hardships in the past, but many admirable men were in China. He cites Luigi Antonio Appiani, Johann Mullener, Teodorico Pedrini, and more recent confreres. Their virtues were especially: (1) preparing native vocations of which he cites some examples; confreres should work hard to form both diocesan and Vincentian vocations, since this is the wish of the Holy See; (2) loving the Community, and observing the rules. This should be practical love for the Congregation.

1905, 25 October, unnumbered, handwritten and signed, 3 pp. (French, undated; and English, dated.) Comments on the death of Thomas Smith, after a long illness. It was he who requested the division of the province to aid the development of the works. “I venerated him, I loved him. I regret him.” Barnwell is the new provincial, already prepared by Smith to have a large part in the administration of the province.

1906, 1 January, #59, pp. 655-670. There are continuing problems in France, but he still sends his best wishes. Observe the rules. The principle of our prosperity is observance of the rules. Each superior is to be watchful, as this is the main obligation of their offices; likewise the visitors, the superior general, the assemblies. The rules are observed totally at Saint Lazare. Be faithful in all things, but especially to the hour of prayer in common. NEWS: He offers a brief review of events in Central and South America. USA: He announces the death of Thomas Smith, the visitor. In Mexico and the Philippines, many works are being offered to the Congregation. In Italy, the work of seminaries is progressing, especially with the help of exiled French confreres. The Community has taken over two seminaries this year. A bishop was taken from the province of Turin. There is progress amid problems in the rest of Europe, especially in Poland and Russia. Turkey and Syria are progressing; likewise Persia, and Ethiopia. There was a costly uprising in Madagascar. More conversions have taken place in China. The press there is doing well. He concludes with a list of missioners sent out, and with the necrology.

1906, 1 January, #59 bis, unpaged. (To visitors, superiors, professors of apostolic schools.) Our apostolic schools are flourishing, especially since the general assembly of 1890. He sends along rules for the admission and formation of students prepared by that assembly. He recalls his circular of 25 January 1900. In regard to admissions and dismissals, testing is important to determine the students' vocational choice. This will save us from scandals and other evils.

1906, 1 March, #60, pp. 671-676 (+10). He comments on the recent papal decree on frequent communion. This has been neglected because of Jansenism. He gives the example of Saint Vincent. He also studies the background and effects of infrequent communion, especially in schools and communities. We should teach and instruct the faithful. He includes the text in French and Latin (dated 20 December 1905).

1906, 5 March, unnumbered, unpaged, signed, typed, mimeographed. 3 pp., to Western province (in English) Thomas Finney to replace the suddenly deceased William Barnwell as visitor. Offers words of consolation, recalling early death of popes and Dewailly. Finney is young but talented. Asks for prayers.

1906, 6 April, unnumbered, unpaged, manuscript, unsigned, 1 p., to province of Germany A general letter about Duplan and Kreutzer’s resignation, connected to following letter.

1906, 6 April, unnumbered, unpaged, manuscript, unsigned, 3 pp., to province of Germany

23 Nomination of M. Charles Duplan as visitor of Germany and superior of Theux, and the administrative reorganization of this house, replacing Pierre Kreutzer, who resigned for health reasons. Urges the members not to lightly be discussing these matters, “sans avoir ni la grâce d’état, ni la connaissance suffisante des personnes et des ménagements à prendre à l’égard de certain nombre de missionnaires ou même les administrations…” [since they have neither the grace of office, nor sufficient knowledge of persons and arrangements to make concerning a certain number of Missioners or even administration].

1906, 24 April, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, unsigned, 2 pp., to province of Krakow Announces retirement of M. Kiedrowski as visitor and replacement, M. Kominski, as visitor and director of the Daughters of Charity. Reviews activities of the province of Krakow: the apostolic school, many new houses, missioners in the Americas, increase among the Sisters.

1906, 21 May, to visitors, 1 p. Concerning planned closing of house of Savona.

1906, 15 August, unnumbered, unpaged, 6 pp, to province of Ireland Recalls history and present works. You have asked me to help. Some disaffected persons among you, disrespectful of authority, and infected with modern ideas. – Wants confreres to make regular internal communication to superiors. Neglect none of the rules. Be exact in poverty. Give missions and other works without remuneration, but all right to receive something from pastors.

1907, 1 January, #61 (incorrectly marked as #60,) pp. 671-686. There are constant anxieties in France, which he hopes will be purified. The role of founders in heaven is to watch over their communities. Saint Vincent will do so, too; consequently, follow his lead. The Blessed Virgin Mary in 1830 said that the Community would be saved. Saint Vincent wants us to observe the rules, and to go to the sources of their traditions. Pray for the salvation of the Company. He is anxious about France. Read the rules and observe them. Sacrifice for the good of the Community as Saint Vincent did in public calamities. He wants the rest of the Congregation to forgo the use of cookies and other liquids along with feast-day coffee. Has offered this as a sacrifice to Saint Vincent. He also calls for more rigor for reading at table. Talking can be done before or after if needed. NEWS: There is not too much to report. Confreres can read the news of the Congregation in the Annales or newspapers. There are good numbers of students in the internal seminaries of Dax, Panningen, and Paris. The rest of Europe is doing fine. Two more seminaries have been taken in Italy. Our International House in Rome is good. We have colleges in the Near East, and an apostolic school in Jerusalem. In China, progress has been rooted in the blood of martyrs. There have been some disasters in Nanchang: two confreres died, along with others. Some progress is noted in Ethiopia, Madagascar, and Persia. USA: There has been good development in the work of missions in both East and West. He notes the sudden death of the provincial, William Barnwell. In South America, the development of the work of the Propagation of the Faith in each diocese of Chile has been entrusted to us. He concludes with the annual list of missioners sent, and with the necrology.

1907, 25 April, #62, pp. 687-698. He writes on Modernism. He sees background in scripture, which speaks of false Christs, and evil effects. New opinions have arisen. The Holy See denounces errors, as in the Council of Trent. He comments on the role of the Holy See in teaching: the pope and the congregations are all owed obedience. Saint Vincent was very attached to the Holy See, and likewise to our general assemblies. He then lists new and dangerous opinions, such as exaggerated criticism, a tendency to rationalism, the acceptance of new biblical theories (we have to watch out for these in seminaries; use a good manual.)

24 There are rules to be followed: no Modernist professors should be allowed. Take out professors who use their own teaching and reject the manuals. Inform the superior general of the manuals in use, the professors, etc.

1907, June, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, signed, 2 pp. “Note on frequent and even daily communion.” Repeats this in the following letter to the province of Syria.

1907, 12 June, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, signed, 4 pp., to province of Syria. After the death of Bouvy, visitor, proposes M. Emile Romon in his place as visitor and director of the Daughters of Charity, not changing the traditional arrangement of offices. Adds thoughts about frequent and even daily communion among the youth in the Sisters’ schools. Confessors and teachers should work toward this practice.

1907, 21 June, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, signed, 2 pp., to province of Ecuador Recalls the founder of the Double Family in Ecuador, Jean Claverie, who answered the call of “the illustrious and immortal García Moreno.” Proposes Cyprien Hermet in Claverie’s place as visitor and director of the Daughters of Charity in Ecuador. Asks for specified prayers.

1907, 16 July, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, signed, 2 pp. Announces the resignation of Amédée Allou for health reasons as assistant general. Proposes Pierre Méout in his place. Asks the approval of the visitors of Europe, to whom he sent the circular.

1907, 9 August, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, unsigned, 2 pp. Announces the suppression of the house of Saruki Dolne in the province of Krakow; reasons: the difficulties of taking on this small parish, lack of resources.

1907, 15 August, #63, pp. 699-707. He sends the text of Lamentabili, his response to the pope, and the response of Cardinal Raphael Merry del Val. Each confrere should sign the text, signifying their agreement with the letter. This document is to be kept in the archives of the house.

1907, undated, typed, 1 p. He reminds the visitors that each superior should have Lamentabili read in the house and each confrere should sign it and send the document to him as soon as possible.

1907, 15 August, #63 bis, unpaged. He announces a change of assistant: Pierre Méout replaces Amédée Allou.

1907, 25 December, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, signed, 3 pp., in Spanish, to province of Mexico. Bruno Alvarez is named visitor in the place the late Fr. Ildefonso Moral, who worked so hard for the CM and Sisters, even without much personnel. Spain has helped with new recruits. Hopes for an apostolic school as a source of vocations.

1908, 1 January, #64, pp. 707-722. He sends his best wishes for the new year. He reflects on fidelity, particularly Saint Vincent's example. The Congregation will last if is faithful, especially to the primitive spirit and to the observance of rules, if it lives in good order, and if it is faithful to the Holy See, especially about frequent communion. Be faithful to giving missions, our first work; also to the Confraternity of Charity. NEWS: The thirteenth sexennial assembly has been scheduled for 30 July. This will be preceded by domestic and provincial assemblies, but they should not disturb the confreres. The

25 Blessed Virgin Mary watches over the Congregation. We are coming through the Modernist crisis. We have taken on more seminaries. New bishops have been taken from the Community. Germany has new houses in Holland. Portugal—progress. Americas—peace and prosperity. The colleges in the Orient are crowded. China—progress and conversions. There have been some problems with the Boxers, leading to deaths, and the massacres of Vincentians and the faithful. In Madagascar, there has been some suffering, the closing of schools, and the death of a young confrere. Persia—new problems with Turkish soldiers; he quotes a letter from the apostolic delegate with details. He concludes with the annual list of missioners sent out. There are, however, fewer vocations in France. The annual necrology follows.

1908, 1 January, unnumbered, unpaged, 3 pp. Announces the golden jubilee of priesthood of Pius X in the coming September, and asks for prayers and financial offerings for the pope, still a prisoner and undergoing violent attacks.

1908, 17 April, #65, pp. 723-736. “Sacerdotal Reparation” is a new work put by Pius X under the care of the Congregation, to give stability to this pious work. The superior general is to name the director general. Its purpose is to offer reparation to God for wounds made to the heart of Jesus, and to promote a deeper consecration of priests and religious. There are only few obligations. Members should offer one day a week in reparation. Reparation can be affective, effective, and afflictive (i.e., voluntary sufferings.) He offers background from the history of piety, especially in the example of Saint Vincent. He sends a copy of the rescript and the response of the pope, in Latin and French.

1908, 20 August, #66, pp. 737-748. This letter marks the end of the sexennial assembly (30 July - 3 August), which decided that there was no need for a general assembly. The superior general asked to be relieved. There is a problem with the vicar-general, since there are fears that the French government would have problems. The assembly agreed that there would be no vicar general. As a result, two new assistants were chosen. The main issues from postulata were: (1) staying only in Community houses; (2) neglect of chapter, and how to ask for charity; (3) divine office is to be said in common; (4) the lack of due obedience; (5) relations with the Daughters of Charity; (6) publication of books by confreres without requisite permissions; (7) visiting relatives.

1908, 24 September, 3 p., typed, to visitors of Europe. Damè cannot take on the office of assistant; Fiat attaches his letter on the subject. Asks for their approval of appointing Veneziani.

1908, 24 October, #67, pp. 749-752. There is a problem with replacing a recently named assistant who resigned, Joseph Damé. He has appointed Agostino Veneziani. There is a legal issue here [with the French government]. On other issues, send in reports to superior general regularly. Superiors should also report to visitors regularly.

1908, October, typed, 1 p., unsigned, to visitors. Some confreres are living outside their houses, and the visitors want something done. Fiat asks for detailed information, if any.

1908, October, typed, 3 pp., to visitors. A second version of the previous letter. The confreres live apart because they had to leave the community houses because of the “persecution.” Fiat includes comments from the Holy See about judging the cases. They weigh on his conscience.

26 1908, 15 December, 4 pp., typed, addressed to Guilloux, Shanghai Lays out his legal authority to interpret constitutions, Common Rules, and decrees [of the general assemblies] in relation to the appointment of the “directors” of the districts in China. The superior general may also issue obligatory ordinances. He clarifies that the “directors” have all the powers of the directors of missions in France, as spelled out in the circular of Bishop Sarthou (21 November 1898). The members of the district owe the “directors” their obedience “in all the points indicated in the circular [of Sarthou], and in whatever concerns domestic life.” His circular remains in force.

1908, undated, typed 1 p., in French and Latin. Concerning prohibition about smoking: with a doctor’s recommendation, a visitor, with the consent of his council, may allow a confrere to smoke for medical reasons, but only in his own room, never in public. – A longer letter, 3 pp., follows, in French, on the same subject; with “Réflexions,” typed, 3 pp.

1908 (?), undated, typed, 4 pp. On when the breviary can be recited in the country during vacation period in the three houses of formation: Mother house, Dax, Panningen.

1909, 1 January, #68, pp. 753-770. He sends best wishes for all. We should have a love for our vocation, for Saint Vincent, and for the rules which he left and which the Community has made. We should be alert to the respon- sibilities of superiors. The observance of rules is the road to holiness: “exact, integral, and perfect” obedience. The demon causes us not to observe them, as does Modernism. Without rules we will have no grace to resist. NEWS: The Miraculous Medal Association has been erected at the request of some Polish bishops. The Community has charge of it. In Italy, there is a new visitor. Germany is facing the problem of the Kulturkampf. In Austria-Hungary, conditions are good. The French in Belgium have good houses of formation. In Spain, their prosperity comes from observance of the rules. In the provinces of Barcelona, Portugal, Ireland and Australia, progress is good. In Italy, there are not enough men for the works offered. Poland is prosperous, and has sent men to the USA and to Brazil. The Levant has undergone a bloodless revolution. In Persia, there are problems and suffering. In China, there is a consoling number of converts. In Ethiopia, there is very hard work, but some progress; the same in Madagascar. USA: There is prosperity in both provinces; cause of De Andreis is being introduced. In Colombia and elsewhere in South America good progress is being made. He sends a list of the missioners sent out. France is relatively calm, but there are fewer vocations. He recalls the Miraculous Medal. He concludes with documents in Latin about masses celebrated in Daughter of Charity oratories, and about the Miraculous Medal Association. He sends the annual necrology.

1909, 13 June, #69, pp. 771-780. He is recovering from an illness. An illness likewise faces the Congregation and the Daughters of Charity, lack of vocations. God has not withdrawn his love and protection from the Congregation. Do not doubt the promises of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Miraculous Medal. Also, do not use human means to attract vocations, such as shortening the time of formation. In France, “out of sight, out of mind,” because of our withdrawal from seminaries. Also, irregularity in our observance of the rules lessens our ability to attract vocations. We must attend to even the smallest details of the rules. The means to do this are to turn to God, and to humble ourselves. Let us give thanks for the vocations we have, and practice patience and prayer. Also, he is establishing the prayer “Expectatio Israel” for vocations, in honor of Saint Joseph. This is to be recited regularly. Visitors and superiors are to be vigilant about the rules, as well as about frequent communion among the youth.

1909, 12 July, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, signed, 2 pp., to province of Ireland. M. Morrissey, visitor, asked to resign; Joseph Walsh will replace him. Warns the province in the words of Pius X about “practical modernism.” Asks for prayers.

1909, 27 September, #70, pp. 781-792. He writes on the practice of silence, a means of regularity. Silence has two types: humility, like that practiced by Saint Joseph; and that prescribed by rule. This was Saint Vincent's idea and experience, and that of the Jesuits too. Saint Vincent gave good example in the former Saint Lazare, and silence reigned there. It impressed even de Rancé himself. The virtue of silence is even more fundamental. Exceptions are possible, especially in cases of need or usefulness, but then they should be made only rarely and done in a few words. The advantages of this rule are that it is easy, and it fosters recollection. There are many disadvantages from an undisciplined tongue, since it leads to excesses. He asks everyone to work on revitalizing silence. The use of Deo gratias at meals is an abuse. This was not done in pre-Revolutionary France, and in other provinces. We will gain divine protection this way. We need the help of Saint Joseph.

1909, 22 October, unnumbered, unpaged. (Typed, autographed; to Visitors and Directors of Daughters of Charity.) He asks for information about the new decree on frequent communion. How well is it going? He has also suppressed the special calendars for communion days for Daughters of Charity and for Vincentian students.

1910, 1 January, #71, pp. 793-814. He offers best wishes, both spiritual and corporal, for the new year. Our only good is in our sanctification. The decree on frequent communion is in operation in our schools. The Congregation of Religious has published three decrees: on unworthy candidates, on studies, and on financial obligations. He sends copies at the end of the circular. He comments on candidates, and who can and cannot be admitted, and what our response should be; on studies before orders and our response (he recalls the International House in Rome); and on finances and debts. There are other items to be noted: observe the rules; work on the missions; and note that our own rules of abstinence are not dispensed by any general ecclesiastical dispensation. NEWS: In France there are some vocations. In Europe, there is nothing special to report. There are, however, problems in some places, such as in Lisbon, where the house was bombed. There are health problems for the men in China, Madagascar, and Brazil. There is hard work to be done in the near east. China is our largest mission. There are some conversions there, and a new novitiate has opened in Cha-La near Peking. USA: He notes the visit of Émile Villette, the econome general, and he has hopes for the future. The work on missions grows. There is a new visitor in the east, Patrick McHale. In Central and South America, there are new seminaries and mission work. The letter concludes with a list of missioners sent out, documents from Rome, and the annual necrology.

1910, 7 March, #72, pp. 815-826. He writes on poverty. He worries about this as his age advances. This was an issue for previous superiors general, and a concern of Saint Vincent. He then discusses the legal documents concerning poverty, and their meaning. There are some specific issues to be noted: (1) Money and its use. He explains the issues regarding keeping it, i.e., regarding its administration. There are many rules in the rules of office and in the various directories and decrees. (2) Furniture in our rooms: he calls for simplicity and poverty, nothing superfluous. He admits his personal failings here, and regrets the use of easy chairs in place of straight chairs. This is an abuse. Another abuse is the presence of gold edges on our breviaries. (3) Trips and touring: he lists items that are indispensable; take nothing

28 else. Also, take nothing from one house to another, even books, since each house has what one needs. Be vigilant about touring on vacation. He asks for watchfulness.

1910, 8 June, 2 pp., typed, unsigned, unnumbered A questionnaire on studies, referring to document of previous 7 September.

1910, 27 September, #73, pp. 827-838. There are many problems in France. He calls now for a return to Saint Vincent and his ideas, as he has done in various circulars. He turns to the subject of obedience and observance of rules. The bases for observance are found in the scriptures, the life of Christ, Eucharist, and Saint Paul. Obedience should be a habitual virtue. He cites the example of Saint Vincent and the lives of the earliest confreres. God blesses obedient communities, but the demon tries to turn us away. He mentions both good and bad examples. Our vow of obedience involves death to self. Be exact about rising, prayer, examens, common meals, divine office in common, and other spiritual obligations. He comments on Saint Bonaventure's treatise on obedience. It should be simple, universal, prompt, willing, blind. Confreres should regard these circulars as his spiritual testament.

1910, 20 October, #74, pp. 839-850. He writes on the Motu Proprio of Pius X against Modernism. Our response involves who should take the oath, when, and how. All in the house should now do so, as well as those assuming new offices, such as students before ordination. He sends the text of the regulations about the oath (in Latin) and profession of faith of Pius IV, (with additions of Pius IX), and the text of the oath.

1910, 24 October, unnumbered, unpaged, 2 pp., to China missionaries Concerning the division of the China province. Its foundation caused many difficulties and these made Fiat hesitant, but the confreres wanted it. The Holy See did not object. Hence he has erected provinces of North China and South China. Headquarters (Cha-la and Kia-Shing-Fou) and territories. The Shanghai procure remains as it was, attached to the mother house. Visitors named: Guilloux (south), Desrumaux (north).

[1910?], undated, 1 p., typed, unsigned. Mentions fall of prime minister Briand’s government, (1910?). Fears attacks on the confreres giving missions. Hence, information on them will not be sent by mail, but in some other way. Nor will two confreres give missions together.

1911, 1 January, #75, pp. 851-866. This is the thirty-third year of these circulars. There have been many problems in those years, but we had the protection of the Blessed Virgin Mary. We must live piously (as Étienne often said). Are we now as pious? The meaning of piety for us is filial piety (i.e., obedience), and fidelity to our rules and practices. In prayer, we should beware of mere repetition of formulas. Examine the structure of the divine office to see the piety there. This should lead to edification for ourselves and others. Beware of dissipation. NEWS: France is no better, no worse than last year. There has been some growth of vocations in Europe. Spain and Italy—progress, and honors to our confreres. Our causes are stationary, but some hopes exist for the progress of Louise de Marillac. Poland—progress. Portugal— problems. There were two martyrs in their revolution. In the colleges in the Near East, there is some competition from civil schools. There has been some progress on studying the tomb of Mary (Panaghia Capouli), which has been entrusted to us. China has seen the death of a bishop, but there are abundant fruits. Two full provinces have been erected there, North and South China. Persia, Syria, Ethiopia, Madagascar—the usual issues and struggles.

29 USA: good reports have been received, especially about the missions. East better in this than the West. Mexico—work in seminaries and missions. South America—bishops favor the Congregation, despite problems and losses. The letter concludes with the usual list of the missioners sent out and the necrology.

1911, 28 March, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, signed, 2 pp., to province of Belgium-Holland. After death of M. Duez, visitor; appoints M. Alphonse Vandamme, with residence at Liège. This good and pleasant house was recently purchased. He will also be director of the Daughters of Charity.

1911, 31 March, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, signed, 4 pp., to Vincentians and Daughters of Charity in Ecuador. After several deaths, he needs to appoint someone as visitor and director of the Sisters, and so names Abel Devrière, superior of the seminary in Oran. Calls the recipients to prayer and observance of the rules.

1911, 30 August, unnumbered, unpaged (7 pp.) (To Western Province, USA) in French. This letter follows several commissaries, the last being Joseph Walshe from Ireland. There are many good houses, confreres, and works. There are many parishes, but fewer missions and seminaries; this condition is not right. He reviews the history of the work in parishes, beginning with De Andreis in Sainte Genevieve. These parishes are not needed today. The confreres should observe the counsels about Modernism. Other points to be noted: (1) Rising at 4 a.m., and prayer. This is the most important of our rules. Do not stay up so late; this is an abuse. Visitors can change schedules if need be. Also, observe the rules concerning (2) letter writing, (3) vacations and touring, and (4) relationships with externs. There is a lengthy treatment on this in the directories, the works of Saint Vincent, and the documents of the superiors general. Local superiors are to be vigilant. Repetition of prayer and weekly conferences are also important, as well as reading at table.

1911, 18 September, unnumbered, unpaged (To visitors). Sends circular from Consistorial Congregation, forbidding the use in seminaries of the book by Duchesne: Histoire ancienne de l’église.

1912, 1 January, #76, pp. [867-882]. He sends best wishes for the new year, and prays for the confreres, especially for the spirit of grace and the spirit of prayer. As Jesus prayed in his life, so we should pray and insist, even when prayer is unanswered. Psalms are good means of prayer. The Holy Spirit helps us pray. We should pray well, and without distractions. Work can become a prayer. Observe rules governing office in common. The Association of the Holy Agony began fifty years ago. There is even more reason to pray now, with dissident sects and secret societies invading even Rome itself. Pray for the pope's deliverance through the Holy Agony devotion. NEWS: There is not much to give. Things are going well. He is happy for the progress of frequent communion. The missions progress. The cause of Mademoiselle le Gras proceeds. New bishops have been named from the Congregation. There is war and unrest in China, and not many vocations, but missioners are being sent out. Our apostolic schools in France are doing fine.

1912, 17 February, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, unsigned, 2 pp., to a CM bishop in China. Writes on feast of Bd. Clet. Our candidates want a common life, but it is difficult to have this in China. Asks the bishop (who is also a visitor) to avoid having missioners living alone, and wants them to establish regional houses.

30 1912, 2 March, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, signed, 1 p. Asks for financial aid for the province of Barcelona following a recent revolution. It cannot support its apostolic school or seminary.

1912, 16 March, unnumbered, typed, signed, 1 p. Announces death of Dehaene and names Pasquier to replace him as vice-visitor [of Brazil].

1912, 15 July, unnumbered, unpaged, lithographed, signed, 2 pp., to Vincentians and Daughters of Charity in Brazil. After death of M. Dehaene, visitor and director of the Daughters of Charity. Has appointed Eugène Pasquier, already interim visitor and director. Asks for prayers.

1912, 15 August, #77, pp. 883-898. He recalls the work of Pius X on frequent communion, and against Modernism. Now two books are to be banned, especially from seminaries. He also calls the Congregation to prayer and regularity. Concerning prayer, he asks the confreres to pray for the Community itself, especially in view of disasters. God has struck the Congregation, but we experience the help of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Prayer for the Community is requested once a month, as an act of piety, but not as a requirement. Superiors should pray for their houses and works; God is especially moved thereby. Do so in the Memento at mass. He gives the example of Mademoiselle le Gras. Regularity is the authentic mark of true religious. This is a sacrifice pleasing to God. The rules will keep us if we keep them, since they bring down God's blessings. Pius IX called for a return to rules and constitutions. If we do so, we can call down God's blessings on the Congregation. The assembly of 1867 called for such observance, and visitors should introduce no relaxations. There are other points. Keep students working only on classes, not on other works such as teaching or monitoring classes, etc. Also, visits without permission outside the house are an abuse. As to missions, be vigilant, and do not accept other works. Establish the Confraternity of Charity. Abstain from tobacco (following the assembly of 1861.) On poverty, accepting gifts and taking them to another house is an abuse. Be vigilant. He adds documents on the books by Karl Holzhey, Fritz Tillmann, and Marie-Joseph Lagrange.

1912, 8 September, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, signed, 1 p. To Vincentians in France. Asks for list of houses of the Daughters of Charity that confreres could visit for confessions, conferences, etc.

1912, 9 September, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, unsigned, to province of Barcelona. Confreres want the vice-visitor, Vilanova, named as visitor. He agrees, and hopes that the appointment will be accepted peacefully.

1912, 15 September, #77 bis, pp. 899-906. (To visitors and superiors.) This letter concerns the unity of the Congregation. He asks superiors and visitors to be sure to send in their official correspondence. They should be docile to the instructions of the superior general. Consultors are to write, too. Be watchful about the decree of the Holy See on finances, and other issues of Community poverty. Superiors should examine the books. There are other obligations. Love your confreres in God, and you will gain their affection. He enumerates the advantages of this. Work for their spiritual advantages. Watch over common exercises, vocal prayers, and vacations. Have care for the brothers.

1912, 28 October, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, signed, 2 pp., to French confessors of Daughters of Charity. Sends his ideas about issues concerning the visits to the Sisters, taken from the Monita.

1913, 1 January, #78, pp. 907-922. He sends his best wishes and love for the confreres. He calls for love of the Community by its members, despite its weaknesses. The Congregation is a work of God, God will have pity on us. God established the Community. Saint Vincent nourished it, and put superiors and visitors over houses and provinces. Other rules are also available, but beware of relaxations. Many martyrs, scholars, and others are the adornment of the Congregation, such as young missioners taken in death. Love the Community. Keep away from visits to externs without permission and without a companion. Correspondence is to be reviewed. Superiors and visitors are to be watchful. Concerning frequent communion, it is all right to say mass and to receive communion on all the days of the annual retreat (not as we had it before.) NEWS: There are many problems with cholera and wars in the Balkans, but our colleges in the near east still prosper. In China, there has been a revolution and the establishment of a republic. There are new bishops there. In Persia, Russia has invaded, and there are problems with the Orthodox church being installed. In Ethiopia, there are many problems and sacrifices, as in Madagascar. USA: In the East there are many blessings; in the West, the province is trying to deepen the work of missions. Mexico is suffering from civil war. The Antilles and South America are flourishing, especially with the help of the Daughters of Charity. In the Philippines, the people are welcoming the new American bishops, and the work of the missions is developing. Spain is very prosperous. Italy has new houses, but is anxious for the future. Progress has been made in the cause of Louise de Marillac. Germany is exiled still in Belgium, and in Austria there are some problems with being unable to do mission work. Poland has opened a new college in Erie, Pennsylvania. In Ireland and Australia, good work is being accomplished. There has been some progress in our houses of formation. The letter concludes with the annual list of missioners sent out, and with the necrology.

1913, 21 January, 3 pp., typed, signed. Refers to a circular sent from the Consistorial Congregation, dated 7 January 1913, about ministry to Catholic immigrants in various provinces. Asks for a response about what is being done.

1913, 10 February, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, signed, 2 pp., to Barcelona (“Province of Catalonia.”) Follows up on a visit by the procurator general. Wants to place M. François Vilanova as visitor of the province, with full powers, in place of M. Gelabert. Warns about “practical modernism,” as in 1909. Asks for prayers.

1913 [incorrectly has date 1915], 7 August, typed, unnumbered, 2 pp,, in a volume with Fiat’s circulars; for confreres in Central America. Announces that, because of great distances from Colombia, the establishment of a province of Central America, with Durou as the first visitor and director of Daughters of Charity.

1913, 9 August, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, unsigned, 3 pp., to province of Central America. Announces the erection of the new province in Central America. Admits that the province is small and weak, but counsels confidence in God, fidelity to common prayer and meditation, spiritual reading, interior communication every three months, missions done according to the Directory. During the missions, look for youngsters with indications of a vocation, with the goal of founding an apostolic school.

1913, 15 September, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, unsigned, 2 pp., to directors of the Daughters of Charity. Responds to doubts about whether the confessions of the Sisters were regulated by the decree Quemadmodum of 1891.

32 1913, 25 September, unnumbered, unpaged, typed, unsigned, 1 p., to directors of the Daughters of Charity. Although no official reply has been received, he is certain that we must observe this decree. Includes a sample letter written to the Sister Servants of France on the subject.

1914, 1 January, #79, pp. 923-936. He offers his best wishes. He has made plans for a general assembly, 27 July 1914, preceded by a novena, and by domestic and provincial assemblies. The purpose will be to work on regularity and the primitive spirit. Thus, provinces should not send delegates who do not want to preserve regularity and the primitive spirit. There should be absolute respect for the rule, and zeal for the glory of God. Examine your consciences, keep the rules. He prescribed and calls the confreres to avoid liqueurs in their coffee, and to avoid giving Deo gratias at table. They have avoided this at the Maison Mère. Also avoid contact with the world, especially with women. Honor the poverty of Christ. NEWS: The news is relatively good. Vocations are satisfactory. There is a new house in Tunis (he recalls the slavery of Saint Vincent, and the life of Jean le Vacher.) Saint Apollinare in Rome is ours, but we have to leave Monte Citorio. The Balkan war is bringing many problems; the Bulgarian mission is in ruins, but we will not leave. Persia, too. Ethiopia is a small but fervent mission. In Syria, the colleges are prospering. China is flourishing, and we are going to open a college in Peking. The Philippines province is celebrating the fiftieth anniversary of its foundation. Madagascar is fine. In the Americas, the confreres are happy with the apostolic schools. USA: There has been good progress on giving missions. In Mexico, the civil war has forced us to leave our seminaries. In the Antilles and South America, there are many vocations. There is progress and good hope for the future. He finishes with a list of the missioners sent out, recommends other works of the Community, and presents the necrology for the previous year.

1914, 17 January, unnumbered, typed. (To visitors). “This letter addressed to the visitors is not to be read in public.” Italian government expropriated the remainder of Montecitorio and the Church of the Holy Trinity. Pope giving us Apollinare as a substitute, with all rights and privileges. Rehabilitating the building will be expensive; asks for financial help.

1914, 22 January, unnumbered, paged erroneously as 1-2, unsigned. (To directors of the Daughters of Charity.) He has received an official interpretation of a regulation from the Sacred Congregation of Religious concerning the confessors of nuns and sisters. This decree applies also to the Daughters of Charity. He has written to the French bishops on this, and the directors are to write to their own local bishops. As to the period of the appointment of their ordinary and extraordinary confessors, the Daughters are to express their opinions in writing for each renewal of the priest's term. The director himself cannot be the ordinary or extraordinary confessor without an indult from Rome. He calls for obedience. – Issues on the same day a similar letter to bishops, specifying his responsibility to appoint confessors for non-parochial institutions, and other priests whom the Sisters can call on occasionally.

1914, 17 February, unnumbered, signed, 2 pp. Asks for financial help to put the Apollinare in order after the expropriation of the rest of the Montecitorio house. Gives motives, such as CM history in Rome from the time of the founder.

+++++

Antoine Fiat submitted his resignation, already accepted by the pope, to the general assembly on 29 July 1914. The assembly bowed to the inevitable, and elected Émile Villette. Fiat died in Paris

33 1 September 1915, at age eighty-four. His successor survived him scarcely a year, dying in Paris 7 November 1916.

DePaul University August 2016

Notes

1 Cases of conscience were hypothetical cases dealing with matters of moral theology. The practice of the Community was to discuss difficult cases to prepare priests to handle the problems which they might encounter while giving missions or doing other works of the Congregation.

2 The issue referred to here was how to interpret the rule taken from the Common Rules 10:20.

3 This refers to the permission given by the superior or his delegate to speak during meals. The superior intoned “Tu autem, Domine, miserere nobis,” and the diners responded “Deo gratias.”