Letter 18-To his uncle.(1)

J. X. P.
St. Paul's Retreat, Harold's Cross, Mount Argus, Dublin, Ireland. 24th August, 1883.

My dear uncle,
I was deeply saddened to learn of the death of my dearest brother Peter Joseph Houben, (2) parish priest of Amstenvade. We must frequently call to mind that it is the holy will of God. From the beautiful letters he wrote to me I can say with certainty that he was a good and holy priest, and so we must hope that he has already tasted the joys of heaven; I have offered some free Masses for him; there is no need to send any stipend. We have prayed for him here in the monastery, and many other people have offered prayers for his eternal happiness.

I am glad to know that you, uncle, and my other brothers and sisters, nephews, and aunt Elizabeth are keeping well. Give them my best wishes. Pray at all times, desiring that God's will be accomplished completely in your regard. From the Imitation of Christ, by Thomas a Kempis, we learn to ask our good, merciful God for these graces: the graces of prayer and perseverance; prayer and a happy death. As Saint Augustine says, be sure that the divine mercy will never abandon you provided that you persevere in prayer.

I hope this letter finds you all in good health. Our superiors send their good wishes. Give my regards to Father Gobbels and the curate, and all our relatives and friends. I pray for all of you; you must pray for me too. May the almighty and merciful Lord bless and protect you all, and may his blessing be always upon you, in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen. My good wishes to all.
-I remain in the sweet hearts of Jesus and Mary.
Your loving nephew,,
Fr. Charles of St. Andrew, Passionist.

Letter 18-Notes

1. Summ. p. 373, L. 57.
2. Father Peter Joseph died on 18th August, 1883. Charles had written to him on 30th May: "My dear brother, I was upset to hear that you have been so ill; let us always keep in mind the words of St. Paul: "The Lord chastises those whom he loves and punishes those whom he counts among his chosen ones."

L. 13 - 1873 Fr. Peter Joseph

L. 14 - 1874 Fr. Peter Joseph

L. 15 - 1875 Fr. Peter Joseph

L. 16 - 1878 Fr. Peter Joseph

L. 17 - 1882
His nephew

L. 18 - 1883
His uncle