Letter from a saint

Portions of a letter to the Rev. Julian Delaune, May 31, 1841

(The Rev. Julian Delaune was a priest in several parishes in the Diocese of Vincennes from 1836 to 1842. From 1842 to 1846 he was the pastor of St. Michael Church in Madison, Ind.)

“So we shall have a postulant from Madison! I cannot sufficiently express my thankfulness, dear Reverend Father, for the interest you take in our novitiate. Yes, we must have subjects if we are to continue the work begun here at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods. In the six months that have passed since our arrival twelve have joined us. That would be very encouraging if all persevered; but, fortunately, one returned to her family, unable to sacrifice her affections; and there are some others who we shall be obliged to dismiss unless a great change takes place in their hearts. I beg your Reverence to pray for these dear children, that they may acquire the spirit of their holy vocation. It is difficult for many to understand the necessity of religious obedience; especially does that seem to be the case in this country where the spirit of independence is carried into everything.” (“Journals and Letter,” p. 76)

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