Letter from a saint: to Bishop Bouvier

Portions of a letter to the Most Rev. J. Bouvier

(The Most Rev. J. Bouvier was the Bishop of Le Mans, France. This letter was dated Feb. 23, 1843. Mother Theodore is referring to the aftermath of the Oct. 2, 1842, fire that destroyed the barns and granary at Saint Mary-of-the-Woods.)

“My Lord, truly we have much to suffer in our deep forest, surrounded by enemies, having no other support, no other consoler than God alone. I in particular have trials which are personal, were it only that of having charge, almost alone, of a Congregation already numerous, to whom I have not always bread to give; and often I do not know where to procure what is absolutely necessary for the morrow, not counting the many contradictions which happen daily, and the fear of being burned down by our enemies. How often in looking at my dear Sisters leaving the chapel after night prayers have I not said to myself: It is perhaps the last time that we shall meet together at the feet of Our Lord. How often this winter have I not started out of my sleep, thinking that I heard the noise of the flames and saw their terrible light!” (“Journals and Letter,” p. 90)

To view some of Saint Mother Theodore Guerin’s artifacts, click here.