BISHOP PERIOD (1888 - 1895) Letters 130-282
140
TO THE OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH
Good trip
Prayers at the tombs of the Saints
Proceedings for the episcopal consecration
[Rome, February 5, 1889]
Omnibus et singulis praesentem litteram inspecturis salutem in Domino.
How many things there
are to say et omnia bona.
St. Joseph watched over our trip and brought us safe and sound to the eternal
City. Yesterday after a little rest and bodily nourishment, we went to thank God for the good trip and to
pay our initial pilgrims’ respects to the Holy Apostles, Princes of the area, or actually of the whole world.
Before their tomb I began the litany of invocations pro me et carissimis meis,
and I continued it at the
tombs of other great Saints. What a beautiful kiss I planted on the tomb of St. Pancras, the martyred
youth, also in the name of the youth of our family! The litany will not end so soon, for this city has
hundreds of Saints whose patronage I’m to claim, and then I have to keep the promise I made. I’ve been
here little more than twenty-four hours and it already seems like a month. The sights and dealings with so
many people have wrenched my thoughts away from St. Clare’s. This morning we were in the Vatican for
a couple of hours and we have already taken care of matters relating to the Consistory: visited the
Chamber Master,
requested the audience with the Holy Father, made the Profession of Faith and taken
the oath orally and in writing before the Most Holy Auditor,
began the arrangements with the Bishop-elect of San Severino for the Consecration,
perhaps in the Church of the Oblate Sisters of St. Frances of
Rome.
We also paid a visit to the Piedmontese Cardinal, Oreglia, who welcomed us most graciously
—
Hodie sufficit.
If I will do my best to keep our bargain, may the Brothers do the same on their end; Deus
autem nos adiuvet et exaudiat semper—Iterum salutat omnes qui in Hospitio Clariano serviunt Deo.
Joseph una cum comite peregrinationis
So that all may rest at ease and especially the good Mother, I should add that Knight Aicardi is
treating us just like brothers and has even arranged for Msgr. Torchio to sleep at his house.
142
TO THE OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH
Continuation of pilgrimage to the Saints’ tombs
Sistine Chapel for anniversary of Pius IX’s death
Papal Audience. Multiple Greetings
[Rome, February 9, 1889]
Litteras vestras accepi, fratres in Christo carissimi, et hisce litteris meis venio ad vos.
I am
taking advantage of all available time to continue my pilgrimage to the tombs of the Saints. In these few
days how many gracious audiences I have already had with many of them! It’s so much easier to meet
with Heaven’s Princes than with the earthly ones. While I must wait permission for access to the
dignitaries of the Church militant and be content for now at least with seeing the Pope and Cardinals from
afar, I go with complete freedom to visit St. Peter at the Mamertime Prison, St. Paul at his underground
dwelling, St. Ignatius and St. Stephen in the resting place they share, St. Ignatius in his cell, St. Leonard
of Port Maurice at the scene of his rigorous penances, the Sanctos qui consummati in brevi expleverunt
tempora multa
in the small rooms where they lived (at St. Aloysius’ we celebrated Holy Mass and
stayed for a couple of hours), St. Catherine of Siena, St. Frances of Rome, St. Felix of Cantalice, St.
Philip and James, St. Leo and St. Gregory the Great, etc., etc. to cease belaboring the point. Also worthy
of extensive comment was Thursday’s service in the Sistine Chapel for the deceased Pius IX of blessed
memory. The Holy Father participated in the service in the company of Cardinals, Bishops, Roman
Princes, and Dignitaries of every religious and civic rank.
The singing probed every recess of the heart
and it seems like I can still hear Pope Leo’s voice blessing and entreating eternal rest for the soul of his
Predecessor. I am still moved beyond what words can describe.
February 10, morning hours. Yesterday evening I was finally able to see the Holy Father up close,
to kiss his foot, to shake his hand, to talk with him from 5:30 to 6:15 and to hear verba vitae
from the
mouth of the Vicar of Christ. We formed around the Successor of the Prince of the Apostles a crown of
seven designates for the apostolic mission, and oh what courage the presence of that holy old man
instilled in our hearts! What salutary counsel, what wise guidelines for the life of a Bishop! What
encouragement to charity, meekness, constancy of will, and above all to Gospel prudence. He wished to
insist on this, commenting on St. Gregory’s words which call this virtue the Abbess of all others, and on
the saying of a Pontiff I believe: “si sanctus est oret pro nobis si doctus est doceat nos, si prudens est
regat nos.”
but it’s impossible to even mention all that we heard in that unforgettable audience which
opened with fatherly encouragement for each one individually and closed with an apostolic blessing for
all. Tomorrow evening we are invited to a second audience and I will request renewed blessings pro
omnibus meis iuxta singulorum vota.
Now I give many thanks to the Lord for all the assistance I’m
receiving these days through the prayers of my beloved brethren and all the good young rascals of St.
Clare’s. The Saints of Rome will give them their recompense for me. An individual reply for each
individual question. Fr. Cortona will be satisfied with the tasks delegated to him from my part.
To him I
entrust the missions of greeting all the Vincentian Sisters and particularly the Mother Superior whom he
will inform that every day at the usual time I have my good bread crumbs;
of returning affectionate
greetings to our dearest Rector;
of remembering me to Canon Cantino, Canon Mussi, Fr. Rossetti, Fr.
Vergano,
Fr. Raimondo, and the other worthy Priests of St. Clare’s; of saying a special nice word to Fr.
Ferrero;
of communicating my news to the borders at the Milliavacca Institute
and through Canon
Cantino to the Sisters of Charity; in short, of greeting omnes salutandos.
February 10, afternoon hours. Since I went to dinner with Cardinal Oreglia, I couldn’t put
everything I wanted in this letter. It’s already pretty long anyway, and so as to be able to get it into the
mail right away, I’ll have to save the individual replies for an other day. Fr. Cortona will interpret my
responses for me and will tell each one who wrote a part of the collective letter that I hold their
affectionate words (including those of Fr. John)
and all the dear families they represent very deep in my
heart. Tomorrow they will surround me at the Holy Father’s feet and will receive the same blessing as the
Bishop of Acqui
—Joseph S. Clarae
To Bros. Leo and Benedict:
I need nothing else, all is going well.
145
TO MSGR. JOSEPH PAGELLA
[Rome, February 17, 1889]
....I’ve just now been betrothed with the sacred ring.......
146
TO THE OBLATES OF ST. JOSEPH
Indescribable Joys of the Consecration as Bishop
Farewell Visits and Return
Blessing of the Holy Father
Thanks and First Bishop’s Blessing
[Rome, February 18, 1889]
Yesterday I was unable to travel by letter among my most beloved at St. Clare’s, but oh how
many times I found myself in their midst in spirit! The entire day was spent in heartfelt but indescribable
joys: the first part with the Holy Spirit from whom I had to seek and receive so many favors; the second
part in fraternal agape with my four Apostolic companions joined together around our common father
who had laid hands on us and anointed us Bishops;
the final part at the feet of Jesus Christ’s Vicar to
take leave of him and listen to his comforting words of farewell. The Lord must have secretly
communicated to my most beloved Brothers of St. Joseph the consolations that overwhelmed my soul on
this memorable day. I will still have to use this week for farewell visits: to Cardinal Oreglia who showed
us so much kindness; to Cardinal Massaia, venerable Apostle of Africa, with whom we enjoyed a holy
hour and a half conversation admiring his charity and simplicity as a great Servant of the Lord; to our
consecrating Cardinal, also a holy man, Grand Penitentiary by title and penitent by virtue; to the
Archbishops assisting in the Consecration,
of the Capuchin Order, both so deserving of reward for
having suffered such persecution, working in such far away countries; to all the Cardinals in a word for it
is only right to personally pay my humble respect to all. I still have a considerable number of visits to
make to other dignitaries on earth and many more to Heaven’s Dignitaries. I will budget my time to make
all those I previously planned for this trip. The visits to be received, the letters to be sent and the various
errands to be carried out could only cause a delay in my departure, but in any case by the end of this
month I’ll be Deo favente, in medio eorum qui me diligunt.
The Holy Father has deigned to assure me
of his help in this expression of thanks by blessing all with a special apostolic blessing. Holy old Man!
How he took consolation along with me from the affectionate testimonies that I received on this occasion,
as if he experienced in his own heart the same feeling of gratitude that moved my heart. That’s enough.
When I arrive in person, I will have plentiful material to relate for our conversations during the recreation
periods. For now I charge the Priests with expressing my thanks to Fr. Rossetti, Fr. Vergano, Fr. Gamba,
Fr. Ponzio, and Good dear Felice (see note below) who had the graciousness to send me a kind telegram
yesterday.
May they also receive through this letter an expression of my gratitude for their kindness. A
warm greeting to all who inquire about me. To the Mother Superior, the Sisters and aspirants, to the big
and little Brothers, carissimisque omnibus,
to both the beginning and the more advanced Latin students,
including those who aspire to it from the desks of the liberal arts, in short to everyone in the House etiam
parvulis a benedicat vos
with all the force of that charity that must inflame the heart of a new Bishop.
And for their part may they continue to pray for him who has now become father to another numerous
family and must sign off with a cross
+Joseph, Bishop of Acqui
(see appendix)
153
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, July 2, 1889]
......Protector noster adiuvet eos semper. May the aid of this great protector be extended also to
all the students and may they do well in their examinations and receive an abundance of divine graces in
exchange for the consolation I received from their affectionate letter ... All will surely join in thanking the
Lord with me for the good health and peace of soul He has been granting me during these extraordinarily
busy first weeks. Yes, Deo Gratias for the way He guides me in my study of so many matters and in long
conferences with the vicar general and in patient reading of the letters piled high on the chancery desk.
Deo Gratias for comforting me with the multiple expressions of affection from the good citizens of
Acqui. Visits by the hundreds, personal greetings by the thousands, ceremonies in the various churches,
addresses of various lengths, and examination of the clerics all tire the body, but Deo adiuvante they
energize the spirit ... May my dearest ones at St. Clare’s always beseech this divine aid for me, and I will
not fail to invoke upon the beloved brothers of St. Joseph omne datum optimum quod de sursum est.
159
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, September 23, 1889]
Dear Fr. Cortona,
This time your problems are more numerous than ever and a lot more difficult to solve. Let me
try to solve at least some of them, beginning with the most intricate, humanly speaking: how to get
money. Fr. John should continue to insist economize, economize, but not to the point of depriving the
table of the food needed to keep a bag of bones going. One can practice thrift in regard to so many
superfluous things: turning off the lights when not needed, buying only what is strictly necessary,
imitating a little of the spirit of St. Francis by foregoing costly paraphernalia for the Church; and in so
many other ways that don’t come to my mind but which the keen and observant mind of our industrious
treasurer, (Fr. John) is so quick to discover. With all these cuts you will already be saving a good
thousand francs a year. Another thousand might be saved this year by doing without wine. In these times
there are few communities that consume so much of this expensive beverage as our own, while some
institutions don’t use it at all. With the scanty tuitions that we charge, one cannot claim what is not even
provided in other places where the tuition is higher. See what you can do about this. An increase in
tuition and a larger enrollment could almost double the income. The wealthy should have no trouble
giving a few more lire a month; those of moderate means may continue on the present rate, with the
condition that they forego full rations. In the diocesan seminary those who cannot afford 25 lire monthly
are charged 18, but they get no more than bread or soup. Do you suppose we are being too strict by
giving the same treatment to those who pay only 15 lire? As for the little ones who have been sheltered
for two years in St. Clare’s, would it not be advisable to request something in addition to the admission
fee? At least those who still have relatives could be offered the choice either to renew the fee or to return
home, since our institution can no longer afford to give them free room and board....And couldn’t the
Mombarcelli debt be squared off with a load of grapes in this bountiful season? And another load could
come from the harvest of Casa Medico and Casa Baratta, to be paid off later.
Couldn’t you collect wheat from sow debtors and from people who are short of cash for tuition?
And still, with all these sources of income there remains a large void to fill. Deus providebit. In the
meantime use up what Providence has already supplied for us: the income from legacies... the funds
deposited by that benefactress... in the sum of 2,000 francs. And if you have to furnish collateral for a
larger sum, you can depend on the credit of the Bishop of Acqui for 5,000 lire, etc.... If in spite of all
these transactions you still need to get a loan, look for a kind and reasonable lender and, for the time
being, ask for a few thousand lire.
The question of money has kept us grounded long enough, and it is now time to say Sursum
corda. Lift up your hearts, and on the occasion of the annual retreat may God fill them with the trust that
strengthened St. Joseph in all the circumstances of his life. During these holy days, with the spirit of
piety may the spirit of counsel and fortitude descend upon the Brothers of St. Joseph. May the divine
light make them see what they must do, and may the divine grace help them do what is right........
+Joseph, Episcopus
161
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, October 12, 1889]
Dear Fr. Cortona:
..... I am happily anticipating the fruits of the annual retreat. May the spiritual harvest make up
for the scarcity of other harvests. These will follow once we have gathered in the former: Adiicentur
vobis.
With the news about the retreat, I expect to hear about so many other good things: for example,
that the enrollment of our pupils is nearing the hundred mark; that the two teachers have received their
credentials; that Bro. Vincenzo has won his laurels; that the Inspector is well disposed toward St. Clare’s;
that Father Carandino is busy preparing for the new school year; that the Bursar is beginning to sail in
smooth waters; that Father Baratta has regained peace of mind; that Father Cortona is at the helm and is
going ahead day by day with invincible courage and with fearless assurance that he will overcome every
difficulty; that the Brothers of St. Joseph are more that ever serene and at ease under the protective mantle
of their Patron where Divine Providence has gathered them together; that a chorus of thanksgiving goes
up to heaven for the plentiful graces showered on the community.
This is the good news that will reach me within a few days. For my part, there is nothing new
when I say that I keep the family of St. Clare’s in my heart together with my spiritual family of
Acqui........
+Joseph, Episcopus
167
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, November 8, 1889]
Dear Fr. Cortona:
The letter that I have just received bears good news mixed with the bad. I should say there is
good news that satisfies our human feelings, mingled with news that looks bad if reason did not consider
it in the light of faith. The illness of Bro. Paul would make me very sad indeed if I did not realize that St.
Joseph is the infirmarian, and that, while suffering by God’s will in one of its members the Congregation
will enjoy better health in the whole body. Let us always repeat that omnia cooperantur in bonum
...
even in the smallest things, as we have learned from long experience....
84!!!! Now that’s a handsome number, and the four exclamation points fit right where they are.
But St. Joseph wants the number to go even higher. Before getting acquainted with them personally and
knowing their names, the newly arrived pupils are already dear and familiar to me in the Lord. And
which of the older boys failed to answer the roll call? And how about the latest ones? Has Piana already
found his way? What about Basso, Sovente, Spinelli? And the nephews of the two Mothers Superior. I
would like to ask more questions on matters financial, but the conclusion of your letter throws cold water
on all my question marks: Veni et narrabo tibi. So then I’ll have to go for an answer by word of mouth.
The many items that are hard to explain in writing will be more easily explained by word of mouth, and
so I’ll reserve my questions for the occasion of my semi-pastoral visit....
Have Father Carandino, the secretary, get himself an assistant secretary to give me news about Bro. Paul
and the increase in the enrollment. I am also sending a stamp to Fr. Baratta so that he’ll write to me, at
least from his Casabianca. Many regards to Mother Superior and all her charges; a special greeting to
each member of our folds, even the least....
+Joseph, Episcopus pauperrimus
168
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, November 8, 1889]
I am forwarding to you a letter from Msgr. Bertagna where one can easily discover the names of
the persons who are making this offer.
The sixty year old is Monsignor himself, and the eighty year old
is his mother. We shall take time together to reflect and prepare by word of mouth the reply that is called
for. In case a fourteen year old boy of promise from this diocese calls on you, I think you should accept
him. He cannot afford more than fifteen lire a month, but there will be some way to supply the
difference. The garden of the episcopal residence is in need of a dozen American vines to cover the
squalid walls. Could Fr. Giovanni take the trouble of sending them? Tell Sister Ognissanti to pray for
the deceased pastor of Perletto. I have just received the sad news of his death. Four priests gone to their
maker in less than five months! May St. Joseph raise up helpers for me in his Congregation. I have just
received a letter from Casabianca. I rejoice that spiritual joy is still flourishing among St. Joseph’s
priests. Fr. Baratta is one who should never lose it and he should remember that hilarem datorem, etc.
Let him be always cheerful inwardly and outwardly, at all costs. Away with scruples, they are the blight,
I say the blight of the spiritual life. Stifle every fancy from the start. Do not turn back to retrace your
steps. Do not run too far ahead, nor stop too long to see whether the step was well taken. Have
confidence in God, who is near us to correct our mistakes, unavoidable as they are in spite of the best
intentions in the world. Let him say “Amen” to what I’m writing and let him read it before witnesses.
This will be all; my day book is taken up with the Pontifical Mass for the Dedication of a Church, and
other matters besides. As usual, greetings in the Lord from
+Joseph Episcopus et Vester
170
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, November 23, 1889]
Dear Father Cortona,
...Thanks for your classified list of all the pupils. I see there is a dose of rejects, not to say riff-raff, to use one of Fr. Giovanni’s terms. Rejects from the Salesians or other institutions should be eyed
cautiously, as we have learned from experience. It is regrettable to see the good ones leave (though for
the Seminary) while the mediocre and the retarded stay behind: Bardone, Gatto, Piano, Aroasio, Cantone,
Gemma, Nosengo, Moccagatta, and others. It is quite true that, not counting the members of the
Congregation, in our secondary school there remain hardly more than a dozen who are worth all the
expense and sacrifice. In the summing up, the results are not too flattering for the Diocese and for the
Congregation. Were it not for the fact that the faculty are doing good also to our own students, of whom
we now have a good number, it would be best to do away with an expense that bears so little fruit, not to
say that it does even harm by multiplying misplaced youth. It is painful to recall how many students have
left St. Clare’s to add to the problems... Tell Fr. John to also study with Fr. Baratta regulas constituendas.
In spite of all my good intentions, my time runs out on me even in the long night hours. A bit of the
Liturgy of the Hours and the bundles of papers the Vicar General sends me to study take up the night time
that remains after conferences.... To the Brothers, novices, postulants, aspirants of whom you sent me
good news convey my good wishes.... Bro. Gabriel is a little depressed. He should be encouraged to trust
in God and to be big-hearted. The defection of a Brother could bring harm to the Congregation. All our
Brothers are at this time going through a crisis; the discouragement of one who is highly esteemed can
easily spread to others. May St. Joseph teach us how to take care of our aspirants; or rather, may he
himself be their guardian.... Even with my small handwriting I’ve taken up all the space. Again, regards
to all. A word of appreciation to Mother and the Sisters for their pleasant visit. Tell Bro. Paul to send me
news about that tooth that he no longer has. Enough for now; there’s barely a tiny corner for greetings
from my household joined to those of
+Joseph Ep. Aq. et S. Clar.sis
171
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, November 30,1889]
J.M.J.
Dear Father Cortona,
I was glad to have news about your trip to Turin with Fr. John and your uplifting visit to the Little
House of Divine Providence.... As for my visit that you are looking forward to, there are a number of
difficulties. We are in the season of Advent, during which a shepherd of souls is obliged more strictly to
residence. Besides, there is the mission that will last till the fourth Sunday; and so I have the added duty
to give good example by attending the sermons. Before Christmas I have to go to Turin, where I won’t be
able to finish all my business in one day. I could on that occasion make a short stopover in Asti; but then
someone in St. Clare’s might tell me: parum pro nihilo reputatur
, and I myself would get only a
fleeting taste out of the visit. Wouldn’t it be better to postpone the visit to January and have a longer
stay? In that case, you yourself could call on the Bishop of Acqui before the year ends, and I would have
more leisure to discuss so many points that we can barely touch on when I visit Asti....
The Archdeacon will soon notify St. Clare’s of the usual assessment (30 lire) for the Propagation
of the Faith. It might be well to introduce among the students the custom of making a donation at least
once a month to that work and to the Holy Childhood. Even the shut-ins could offer something. Date et
dabitur vobis.
+Joseph Episcopus
P.S. Tell Fr. Baratta that last Thursday at the home of the Contessa Bosco we gossiped about him and the
people of Revignano. Notice how his fame is spreading abroad: Turin, Acqui, Biella, and even
elsewhere with the help of St. Joseph.
173
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, December 15, 1889]
Dear Father Cortona,
Let this letter serve to discharge an obligation that I would have wanted to discharge personally;
let it be the means of conveying to St. Clare’s a handsome bundle of greetings for the coming feast of
Christmas. — So then (you wrote) we won’t be seeing you at all this month? — Oh, I remember well that
I was too eager to rush into a promise and that my excuses found no acceptance; and I do remember
strengthening your expectations by adding a word of hope on my part. I wrote in my last letter: maybe
soon, which could have been understood to mean before Christmas if you stressed soon more than maybe.
And now I am forced to explain the meaning of that phrase and to declare that by putting both words
together you get the following expression: sooner or later. But (you say) didn’t you pass through Asti
on your way to Turin? Yes, I did, and I really felt bad not to have even dropped a word of greeting either
coming or going. The idea of my passing through town without even taking a look through the train
window! But that’s the way it had been arranged: leaving at five in the morning, returning at 11 p.m. and
being content with only one day to take care of calls in Turin. To lengthen my stay did not seem
advisable under the circumstances; and besides, I just couldn’t justify a hasty visit to Asti without
stopping to see anyone. At least on this occasion I would have had to spend most of the evening with the
Bishop; I could have found no reasonable excuse for declining a long chat with His Excellency. St.
Clare’s for us is St. Clare’s and is never too selfish, but what about others and especially the Bishop? I
for one owe the Bishop the homage of a son and a brother
and I must take this close bond into account.
Was I to excuse myself to attend the investiture? A rather tenuous excuse, which would not have been
proper on that occasion. To sum up, an overnight stop in my opinion was not appropriate; in fact it could
only have worked against the longer visit that’s in the planning. So this ends my explanation.
There is no lack of work in these days, or of health. Confirmation of the sick, ordinations,
attending to preaching, receiving callers, writing letters, presiding over examinations (tell Sister
Ognissanti that her town of Perletto is now provided with a new, good pastor), etc., etc....
Don’t forget about the bimonthly payments and the American vines.... I desire news about
everyone, and good news at that, or on the way to becoming good news with the coming of the Lord Jesus
who I pray will be good to all of you....
+Josephus Episcopus et Vester semper
174
TO ST. CLARE’S HOUSE
[Christmas 1889]
Joseph
Bishop of Acqui,
to the dear Sons of St. Clare’s House,
Peace and spiritual joy in Jesus our Savior
With all my heart I thank you for your greetings and I wish I could return each one of them
individually with this letter as I do at the crib of the Infant Jesus. One of you reminded me that in former
years on this joyful occasion I used to bring you a Christmas gift. Oh, how I would like to bring it to you
this year too if you were not so far away. Still, you do expect something from me and I’ll have to find a
way to send you at least something sweet. Along with the candy that can leave only a momentary
sweetness to your palate, I should give you as usual a more lasting gift to satisfy your sight and your
devotion. Yet what can I do about it? Ah, the Holy Infant comes to my aid. He takes it upon Himself to
come to you in my name. He wants to show you His beautiful face, to bestow on you a heavenly smile.
He wants to present to you His snow-white lily, to raise His little head to bless everyone of you, to invite
you to remain always with him as little lambs to enjoy His loving caresses. Welcome, then, this divine
messenger of mine as He brings you a far more precious gift than you could have expected from me. Do
not be afraid to ask for too much from Him; on the contrary, ask for a very big gift. The more you ask of
Him, the more He will give you. His joy in bestowing His favors on you will be greater in proportion to
your desire to ask for them. O good Jesus, grant to these dear sons all that they desire and even more than
they desire. From the first day of the new year resume with them Your divine chats so as to draw them to
Your heart. Caress them as Your little friends who have already learned to experience the sweetness of
Your love. Grant that they may become your great friends in this life and may later possess a throne of
glory in Your kingdom of eternal life.... My little children, let all of you say: Amen, Deo Gratias.
179
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, January 21, 1890]
Dear Father Cortona,
It’s just as you say. The Lord has sent influenza in place of other more serious punishments that
His justice would have a right to inflict. I often go in spirit to St. Clare’s to visit the dear patients, and I
would go in person were it possible. At this time I am taken up with two important transactions with the
Roman Curia, I have to plan my pastoral letter and study the questionnaire for the Visit, and this week the
Vicar has an assignment for Bubbio. Besides, I feel that my presence there would only be a burden,
especially if I too took sick; and in that case people would say that I had missed the flu in Acqui only to
catch it in Asti. So it’s better that I fulfill here as best I can the duty of charity by recommending to God
the Family of St. Clare’s, giving thanks for those who recover, asking for hope and patience for those
who are still laid up, wishing everyone a deep spirit of surrender to the maternal goodness of Divine
Providence. —My special wishes are for the one who has been the one to suffer the most during the past
days. Like St. John the Evangelist he was unable to move around by himself and had to be carried like a
baby here and there. A prayer for Fr. Baratta, who I hope has regained all his strength for the sake of
Casabianca; for Father Carandino and for the other Brothers who as yet are not responding to fraternal
care; for Fr. Giovanni so that he may stay on his feet for the sake of the others. May Providence continue
to spare the Sisters who are more urgently needed for the House as it has thus far spared the Sisters in the
kitchen and Mother Superior. And if some Sister is to get sick, I hope she recovers soon. And how is
your mother? And Bro. Benedetto? There must be plenty of work in the tailor shop, so the flu didn’t
dare touch him. —Someone is calling and I must stop here. Greetings to all, also on behalf of the
Secretary and Leone. And may the Lord ratify in Heaven the blessing sent to each and every one in St.
Clare’s by
Joseph Ep.
181
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, February 10, 1890]
....I doubt that Rep. Ercole’s sponsorship will enable Bro. Vincent to obtain the ecclesiastical
subsidy for the administration. That office requires many documents both from the Local Government
and the Diocesan Curia, and then, even in spite of the bigwigs’ entreaties, one has a long wait....
183
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, February 26, 1890]
Dear Father Cortona,
My heart aches at the news of the condition of the dear Brothers Philip and Enrico. If our blessed
Lord decides to call them to Himself, it would only be to enable them to help us and the Congregation
more effectively from above. This assurance comes from our faith; but the voice of nature pleads
strongly to the throne of divine mercy to leave them with us a little while longer so that they may first
visibly edify their Brothers here below and render their work more fruitful. O Lord, inspire us with the
prayer that pleases You most, and then give us the grace always to adore the decrees of Your will. —It
seems to have been by the design of Divine Providence that Bro. Thomas left the Congregation since it
was no longer possible for him to do any good there either for himself or for others. The letter he now
writes to request readmission does not change matters, neither do so many of his former promises. We
know the poor fellow too well to believe that the conditions in which he finds himself at this time will
really lead him to live up to his promises. His character and his native temperament make it, I would say,
almost impossible for him to do so. Maybe he could still try with the Little House...
The papal indult is an act of kindness on the part of Holy Mother the Church. Why not take
advantage of it? Most of the Brothers have no health to spare.... The Sisters also have need of keeping up
their strength to do their overwhelming amount of work. God knows this, and has inspired the Holy
Father to mitigate the law of fasting for the faithful, St. Clare’s included. If there were no indult, the help
of God would be at hand to render obedience less burdensome. But now that it is becoming too heavy
and is lawfully being removed by the same authority that lawfully imposed it, why should we be so
stubborn in our own judgment as to act differently that the other faithful who feel in Domino that they can
avail themselves of the kindness of the Church? I would not have had the courage to restrict for my
seminarians the generous indult which the Holy Father authorized me to extend to all the people of my
diocese; and I cannot see how the Superior of a Congregation can unhesitatingly restrict for his subjects
(let alone annul) a benefit which the Head of the Church wishes to extend to all without reservations.
There was some Bishop who was about to impose limitations, but then he yielded to the better judgment
of his equals. That is the way I see it. At any rate, follow the judgment of the Bishop as he must have
already set down both general and particular norms for the seminary and for other communities who may
have approached him on the matter....
Joseph Episcopus
P.S. Special greetings to the sick Brothers. My secretary and Leone also send cordial greetings.
184
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, March 20, 1890]
Dear Father Cortona,
This is the first time in my life that on the occasion of the feast of St. Joseph I am unable to send
an individual note of thanks to all those who sent me greetings and best wishes. How is it possible to
write even one word of thanks to each one among the thousand friends who this year so beautifully
expressed their thoughtfulness toward me on my Saint’s Day? Bishops, canons, pastors, priests, Brothers,
Sisters of every observance, confraternities, good laymen, and then also a cross section of all classes of
people from the House of St. Clare’s which I am at a loss to count. And everyone is in expectation of a
word of appreciation of their best wishes. Fortunately, I do not consider myself bound to reply
immediately to the hundred letters that come from your side, and I can presume that the writers will be
even more delighted to have a reply by word of mouth. But when will I ever get a chance to fulfill this
duty? Man proposes and God disposes. The older we get, the more we are persuaded by experience that
in this world our will must always be subjected to that of others. I was already convinced of this when
living in St. Clare’s, but here in Acqui my conviction has soared a few degrees higher. —Now then... —
Ah, Fr. Cortona must be thinking of Bro. Leone shaking his head, and I’m thinking of some sly and holy
interjection of Fr. Giovanni and I wish I could add to that “now then” something quite different from what
was about to drop out of my pen. But, I regret to add, I have nothing to say in its stead. Now then... I am
disposed to do the will of God. If it is God’s will that after starting my pastoral visit to the more remote
parishes on April 20 (as in God’s Providence was arranged) I should be administering Confirmation to
my people in the Apennines on the feast of the Patronage of St. Joseph, my own spiritual children of St.
Clare’s should then join in spirit their distant brethren and pray: “Olim nobis, nunc aliis; protegat omnes
Joseph.”
That will be all I have to say for the present.
I send a blessing to each and every one from the bottom of my heart, and I embrace all in the
Lord.
Affectionately yours,
Joseph Episcopus
185
TO ST. CLARE’S HOUSE
[Acqui, March 25, 1890]
Feast of the Annunciation, and, by participation, of St. Joseph, who unknowingly received from
God so many graces in common with his Spouse, even though he was unaware of the great Mystery.
Joseph, Bishop of Acqui, to his beloved sons in St. Clare’s: I am comforted in the fact that you
realize why I am unable to keep my appointment for the feast of the Patronage of St. Joseph. I am so
deeply comforted that, without further delay, I formally promise a visit in the first week after Easter. God
willing, I will arrange to have my pastoral visit to the people of my diocese preceded by a visit to the
Brothers of St. Joseph. —Meanwhile, I rejoice in all the good that was done in the recent feast of our
glorious Patron Saint, and I repeat with you Deo Gratias. And a thousand Deo Gratias for the blessings
which Divine Providence showers over the field of labor of the priests of St. Clare’s. Fr. Giovanni really
feels the words aemulamini, etc.
of St. Paul and does not wish to stay behind Fr. Baratta. Another Deo
Gratias for the Ottolenghi bequest and the donation of 4,000 lire accepted according to agreement. A
hearty “well done” to the catechists who conduct the evening classes for eighty young people. May the
good God grant zeal and vigor to His servants in all the tasks that He deigns to assign them; and may the
glory He receives from them be reflected in His saints, especially in Mary and her spouse St. Joseph.
Father Pelosi and Bro. Leone send greetings.
186
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, Easter, 1890]
Joseph Marello
Bishop of Acqui
Together with the members of his household wishes his beloved ones of St. Clare’s the gaudium
magnum quod est alleluia
and many heavenly blessings. He secretly whispers in Father Cortona’s ear
that, God willing, next Tuesday evening they will arrive for a visit with the Sons of St. Joseph to share
with them also the Easter joy.
Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.
187
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, April 19, 1890]
....I am also awaiting news about the celebration, which I imagine was exceptionally beautiful and
inspiring. Filius accrescens Joseph,
and the sons of St. Joseph must also grow, at least in devotion to
their holy patron......
190
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, June 16, 1890]
Sorrowful anniversary of my departure from St. Clares.
Dear Father Cortona:
...Let me add a word of congratulations to all of St. Clare’s families who zealously vied with one
another in manifesting their faith in Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament; an exceptionally splendid
manifestation of faith engendering more intense acts of love. The splendor of lights, songs, incense, and a
hundred other beautiful things that for one hour surrounded the King of Glory, is a symbol of the
triumphant feast which the souls of the elect offer the glorified Jesus.
Joseph Episcopus
194
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Vaglio Serra, August 24, 1890]
....Before granting me an answer, the Cardinal would be obliged to seek much information from
the Bishop of Asti. What standing do the Oblates of St. Joseph have in the eyes of the Church? In what
way do they depend on the Ordinaries? Are they regularly approved? What are their rules? etc. etc....
195
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, September 8, 1890]
Joseph Marello, Bishop of Acqui, will end his pastoral visits on Monday evening, September 8,
and will then retire to Strevi for a little rest in the company of the priests and Brothers of St. Clare’s who
come to join him on that hill preceded or accompanied by Father Cortona. Interea valeant omnes in
Domino, B.M.V. intercedente cum eius Sponso et omnium Protectore Josepho.
198
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, October 24, 1890]
Before resuming my pastoral visits, I owe a reply to your letter in which I read with pleasure your
description of the funeral rites for Bishop Torchio of blessed memory. I wish the second part of your
letter had also continued in the same vein and had been the bearer of consoling news. Unfortunately, in
this life joy and pain are forever alternating. The funeral of a servant of God leaves us with a sense of
peace in the hope that he is now in possession of his eternal reward. On the other hand, the opening of
the school year at St. Clare’s, instead of bringing the expected joy to our hearts, causes us to fear an
uncertain future and fills us with a thousand forebodings. And yet, was not the life of St. Joseph also a
succession of consolations and fears? Let St. Clare’s, then, be like the house of St. Joseph. In the midst
of doubts and anxieties, let all hearts rest trustful and secure. Let everyone repeat with St. Paul: Placeo
mihi in angustiis pro Christo.
Even last year the future looked dark, and yet Providence brought back
the sunlight. When school opened there were not many pupils, and then the number increased almost to a
hundred. By All Saints Day I expect to receive the news that the enrollment has increased by quite a few
more and that within a few weeks the number will have doubled to eighty. I am doing my best to
contribute to this increase, and within a few days I will send two more from the parish of Visone: the two
brothers Costantino and Angelo Ruggero. It is possible that you will be receiving even more. No doubt,
God will take care of the rest through the intercession of St. Joseph. I pray with those of St. Clare’s. Let
them pray along with me as I prepare to face the severe cold on my way to consecrate two churches and
visit six parishes. For these and other tasks I am in need of spiritual help. Greetings in the Lord from
Peloso and Leone.
Yours in Our Lord,
Joseph Episcopus
202
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, December 19, 1890]
Dear Father Cortona,
I trust that the acceptance of the poor deaf and mute girl at St. Clare’s will draw the blessings of
Divine Providence and will open the way for a gift from the Holy Infant. The Sisters of Siena, to whom I
sent the welcome news, will also pray for the Home of St. Clare’s.
The institution of the laus perennis
would be quite timely in our day. The main problem would
be to arrange it in such a way as not to harm the health of the participants and consequently bring harm to
others. Our Lord is so generous that He often prefers to stay in the background and give a hand to others
by giving priority to the works of charity over exercises of adoration; or rather, He bestows on the former
the merits and value of the latter. You might try to arrange a schedule that will provide for total
participation with the least amount of inconvenience to individuals. Repeat often the aspiration: In te
Domine, speravi,
etc. I do not consider it wise to cut down on food. It would be like expecting a
bountiful harvest after having been sparing with the seed. — I am in a state of siege with visits, letters,
and other business, and so I’ll have to limit all my Christmas greetings in one word: Pax vobis hominibus
bonae volutatis.
Even if you should be in need of everything, be constant in your good will and you
will receive from Jesus that peace which is worth everything. Father Peloso and Leone join me in
invoking on the House of St. Clare’s the blessings of the Holy Infant and the patronage of the Blessed
Virgin and glorious St. Joseph.
Joseph Episcopus
205
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, February 21, 1891]
Dear Father Cortona,
I have received news about St. Clare’s from the pastor of Monbaldone, who related wonderful
things about what he had seen. Deo gratias. I am still waiting for Mass intentions as we agreed. The
object of this letter is entirely to remind you of this matter in case it was forgotten. Otherwise, I have
nothing new that might be of interest to the Brothers of St. Joseph. So I’ll close by asking for the prayers
of the community. Eamus simul ad Joseph et oremus pro invicem;
and may our Holy Patriarch obtain
for us from God every grace we need. In the bond of charity I remain
Affectionately yours in Our Lord,
Joseph Episcopus
P.S. Father Peloso and Leone send greetings.
206
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, February 23, 1891]
Dear Father Cortona,
This is the first time that I have the consolation of replying to a letter that is so full, so
overflowing with good news that I had Father Peloso and Leone read it for their enjoyment like a
delightful piece of music stupendously harmonized from start to finish. St. Joseph is still the
Choirmaster. He gives the intonation; but sometimes he does permit a little dissonance here and there.
However, during this month so dear to him, he wants all the notes to flow just right so as to lift our hearts
heavenward where there is nothing but harmony. Our Holy Patriarch wants us to realize that in
Bethlehem the hours of desolation and of silent waiting were followed by comforting visits of angels to
the accompaniment of heavenly songs. I leave it up to Fr. Cortona to point out the various analogies
found in these two settings: Bethlehem and St. Clare’s. For my part I am happy to have expressed in my
last letter a wish that is pleasing to the Lord: Let us all go to St. Joseph, I wrote. I noticed our Saint
surrounded by all of you as he made his triumphal ascent to his throne, and he also beheld a widening
circle of friends and many others come toward him to do him honor. God grant that new friends of St.
Joseph may come forward this month and bring him the gifts of Bethlehem which he, the Provider of the
Holy Family, knows so well how to make use of for its daily needs till he has led it to the gates of
Heaven. God grant that we may always remain worth of belonging to this blessed family and of receiving
from its Head our daily nourishment.
Thanks be to God for the successful outcome of the philosophy exams. To all the candidates I
say, Well done, and courage! Well done and keep going, I say to Fr. Baratta as he wins new laurels as
our Apostolic Missionary. St. Clare’s now has a plentiful supply of everything. Preachers, Confessors,
Catechists, Professors, Lovers of the Fine Arts, not to mention Procurators, Bursars, Shop Foremen,
Workers, etc. We wanted a Subdeacon, and St. Joseph will not have us wait any longer; and in due time
he is ready to give us a Deacon as well. Our health too is good, and in this month we hope that Bro.
Alfonso will get stronger so that he can get back to his work with a greater drive.
Finally, a word about that coat. I can do without it for this winter, and so Bro. Benedetto will be
able to save the cloth for a cassock.
Affectionately yours in Our Lord,
Joseph Episcopus
P.S. The entire episcopal household returns your greetings.
207
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, March 7, 1891]
Dear Father Cortona,
The sad news of the death of Fr. Bosso came too late for me to suggest that a representative group
from St. Clare’s go to the funeral of the venerable deceased. I presume you attended it with Mother
Superior without waiting on my advice. It would be well for the community to celebrate the seventh day
and month’s mind Mass for the repose of his soul. You would thus repay a public debt of gratitude to the
good Father who loved the Oblates so much and who will always be blessed not only by the Home for the
Aged, but also by our little Congregation. In this way we shall all the better assure for ourselves the
benefit of his prayers from Heaven, where I have every reason to believe that the Father of the poor has
called him. I saw him on the 25th of last month, and I had a feeling it would be the last time. He looked
like one of the Patriarchs as he lay surrounded by his sons, his face serenely reflecting the peace of his
soul. The Father of the Little House truly possessed a faith comparable to that of those ancient servants
of God, and even amid the sufferings that accompanied his illness his words were always true to this
virtue. Neither the fear of death nor the desire of recovering could move him from his tranquil and
childlike abandonment to the will of God. “The Venerable Cottolengo will obtain for us your recovery,”
the attendants would tell him. “This,” he replied, “is a problem that only Divine Providence can solve.” In every occasion great or small he always had his dear Providence in mind, and now that his own life
was at stake he followed more consistently than ever his principle of walking in the ways of Providence.
For others death is a painful sacrifice; for him it simply meant conforming himself to the wonderful
designs of the Supreme Ruler of all things, especially of the Little House. Let us pray that his successors
will be animated by the great trust that inspired Father Bosso.
As to your inquiry about the work to be done at Casabianca, I see no reason to change the method
we have already discussed and adopted with a right intention. We have given a triumphant reply to the
various objections. To be constant and persevering in a program of action, to carry it out with solicitude
and zeal — this is not identical with being emotionally worked up. Even our passions are a help in doing
good. They help if they do not take the upper hand and if they submit to reason in whose service we
employ them by the grace of God. My advice, then, is to keep making all needed improvements on the
farm house and to employ the help of the Brothers in such a way that, without harm to their spiritual life,
you can also achieve some material advantage. In a word, let intellectual and manual work
counterbalance each other as two means leading to only one end: the service of God in imitation of St.
Joseph...........
Joseph Episcopus
208
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, March 8, 1891]
Dear Father Cortona,
The Congregation, debts, Providence!!! Three most significant words which call to mind three
important ideas that are not always in perfect harmony with each other. With the help of faith, the first
and the last idea can be brought together in a nice melody; but sometimes that one in the middle simply
cannot be forced to stay in tune. To sum it up: If the project
doesn’t require more than a few thousand
lire, go ahead. If instead it reaches beyond our means, let us stop and wait for St. Joseph to give us the
nod. This is his beautiful month. Fr. Cortona is preaching his glories; the Brothers and the entire
community are united in invoking his protection; Bro. Stephen is offering up to him his trials; and Bro.
Massimo, if God so wills, is ready to offer up even the sacrifice of his life — a sacrifice full of sorrow and
of glory as well. So we shall say to our great Patriarch: We belong entirely to you, and may you be all
ours. Show us the way; support us at every step; guide us where Providence wants us to go. No matter
how long or short our journey, no matter how smooth or rough, whether by human sight we glimpse our
goal or not, whether our pace is fast or slow, with you we are sure of always going along the right path.
I send a special blessing to our good Bro. Massimo as a pledge of the prayers that I offer to God
in his behalf. Warm greetings and best wishes for a speedy recovery to Bro. Stephen when he returns to
St. Clare’s. To everyone, especially to the priests (including those who are close to ordination) and to Fr.
Cortona my heartfelt greetings.
Affectionately yours,
Joseph Episcopus
210
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, March 20, 1891]
J.M.J.
Dear Father Cortona,
I received on St. Joseph’s Day the flowers and the bilingual greetings from St. Clare’s. Now I am
also awaiting news about the celebration, which I imagine was exceptionally beautiful and inspiring. Filius accrescens Joseph,
and the Sons of St. Joseph must also grow, at least in devotion to their great
holy Patron. — On the occasion of my Saint’s Day, I received many promises of prayers and spiritual
help. I wish to share all these kind offerings with the dear Oblates, since they too are entitled to this
treasure. And just as I share omnia mea, the Sons of St. Joseph will also share with me omnia sua. And
so each will be able to say: “Omnia mea vestra sunt et vestra mea,”
according to Jesus’ prayer that His
disciples “sint consummati in unum.”
211
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, shortly after April 1, 1891]
Joseph Marello, Bishop of Acqui, sends to Fr. Cortona Easter greetings and the peace of Christ,
to be extended to all the Brothers gathered in His name. And he wishes to say that if no other funds are
available, approval is given to use the notes deposited in the Chancery. For the rest, St. Joseph, who has
taken care of things so far, will surely provide for the future. He continually repeats to his Sons: “In
silentio et in spe erit fortitudo vestra.”
Alleluia.
212
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, April 7, 1891]
J.M.J.
...Now a word about Fr. Baratta. He writes so many good and beautiful things about his mission
at Rocchetta Tanaro that I can’t help repeating a thousand times in my heart: Deo gratias. Poor Oblates
of the Home for the Aged, you are among the minor priests. You are nothing and you enjoy none of
those positions that hold promise for the future. And yet Our Lord makes use of you also for the good of
souls. Yes, keep on saying: “Servi inutiles sumus;”
but keep on going forward to do the portion of
work which the Divine Will assigns to you day by day through its representatives. And may others
videant opera vestra bona et glorificent Patrem vestrum qui in coelis est...
Affectionately yours in the Lord,
Joseph Episcopus
214
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Strevi, June 10, 1891]
J.M.J.
Dear Father Cortona,
Yesterday I arrived at the villa to stay till tomorrow, when I am scheduled for the pastoral visit to
Sezze. I thought I could find more leisure here to reply to your letter, but even at Strevi there is no peace,
and it is not yet time for a lengthy reply.
The solemn enthronement of the Blessed Sacrament in the farmhouse chapel was so vividly
described that, while reading it, I thought I was witnessing an enlarged scene of good Zaccheus. Bro.
Phillip
represented the fortunate guest of the Savior. And he was not the only one. There were many
other Zaccheus, more or less small of stature, to share with him his joy, each one applying to himself the
sweet words of Our Lord: “In domo tua oportet me manere.”
Deo gratias.
Blessed be God when He renders fruitful the farms from which the sons of St. Clare’s draw their
sustenance. And may He also be blessed when in His just judgment He has willed to strike a large area of
the countryside of Acqui, and particularly the places I went for my pastoral visit. May He be doubly
blessed, because while punishing for sins He awakens faith and devotion in hearts. To arrive in a town at
the very time when this awful scourge is destroying the most bountiful harvest,
and to see Christian
resignation written in people’s eyes and to find their wills bowed to the will of the Lord and their hearts
opened to the message of immortal hope, — this is indeed a moving spectacle and one that truly edifies!
Praise God. Among the towns visited in my last pastoral rounds, those hit by the hailstorm were the ones
best disposed to draw profit from God’s grace. The general Communion there was the best attended, and
for the men it was, you might say, a second Easter. Even in these difficult times the faith is still firmly
rooted in our country towns.....
...From Tuesday on I shall be able to welcome Fr Cortona and his companions. Meanwhile I ask
the Heavenly Father to bestow on all of you every perfect gift.
Ever affectionately yours,
Joseph Episcopus
216
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, August 13, 1891]
J.M.J.
Dear Father Cortona,
...Thank God, the hailstorm spared a large part of the vineyards of St. Clare’s. And though this
scourge struck the vineyards of the Bishop and those of so many people in his diocese, God’s will be
done. But there are trials of quite a different sort that call for resignation. Last month I was lamenting the
fact that I had only four newly-ordained priests to provide for the many vacancies. Now three more
places have been left empty by three other deaths. And so in a short time seven parishes have been left
vacant, not counting the parish of Cortiglione, whose pastor is incapacitated by paralysis; that of San
Marziano of Mombaruzzo, whose pastor is absent for illness brought on by old age. Let the members of
St. Clare’s pray that God will come to my aid in so many hardships. And in return I shall continue to
pray for the growth and prosperity of the workers whom the Heavenly Father has raised up in the family
of St. Joseph....
Affectionately yours,
Joseph Episcopus
217
TO FR. J. B. CORTONA
[Acqui, August 16, 1891]
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