PF summary on the case of Luigi Da Palermo, [1671 or later]
Capuchins
Tunis
Corsairs
Ransom
Renegades
Slaves (Christian & Muslim)
PF summary on the case of Luigi Da Palermo, a Capuchin who left the mission of Tunis. The summary includes the viewpoint of both the Capuchin commissary of Sicily, Gioseppe d’Ica, and Luigi Da Palermo himself about his work as a missionary, and the reasons why he left Tunis to go to Rome.
Additional comments
PF
APF SOCG 461, 266r-v, 267r-v
[1671 or later]
Italian
Summary
658
Origin: [Rome]
Destination:
PF minutes, 1672-05-30, Rome
Algiers
Tunis
Capuchins
Ransom
Franciscans
Petitions for faculties
Minutes of PF general meeting of 30 May 1672 discussing among other issues, a letter from the vicar apostolic of Algiers [Jean Le Vacher] from 13 November. He requests PF to decide among the following options: a) that the Capuchin Father Luigi Da Palermo be sent back to the mission; b) that the superior general of the Capuchins send another Capuchin; or c) that the Capuchins help the vicar apostolic to ransom another priest who would substitute Luigi Da Palermo. The vicar apostolic thinks that the last option will be easily accepted by the order, because he came to know that the Fathers of Sicily already had money to ransom Luigi Da Palermo (but the vicar apostolic had already ransomed him with his own money). The general procurator of the Capuchins has nominated two candidates to go to that area, Gioseppe [Giuseppe] Maria da Bologna and Francesco d'Arcidosso. In his letter of 23 March, the Minor Observant Elescario Boullard writes that after he arrived in Tunis, the vicar apostolic [Jean Le Vacher] wrote to Marcello Costa (a missionary in Tunis), that he should make Boullard leave. This has been confirmed by Leorardo Omodei, the leader of the ransom organisation in Sicily. The cardinals decide to approve the two candidates for the mission proposed by the procurator general and that they should be given missionary faculties. The vicar apostolic and the superiors of the Minor Observants should request that Boullard leaves the mission.
Additional comments
PF
APF ACTA 42, 115r-v
1672-05-30
See for the letter discussed in this minutes: APF SOCG 433, 1r-v (database item 652).
Italian
Latin
Minutes
710
Origin: Rome
Destination:
Letter from PF to Jean Le Vacher, 1673-12-12, Rome
Algiers
Tunis
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Petitions for faculties
Copy of a letter from PF to Jean Le Vacher, vicar apostolic of Algiers. Carlo d'Ancona and Vincenzo da Frascati, two Capuchins, have been sent to Tunis to assist the slaves, and now ask for the usual faculties. PF asks Jean Le Vacher to give these faculties to both missionaries, provided that they really are in Tunis. If not, Le Vacher is asked to send another able and charitable priest. The letter dated 12 December 1673.
Additional comments
PF
APF LETTERE 61, 168v
1673-12-12
Addressed to Jean Le Vacher
Italian
Letter
615
Origin: Rome
Destination: [Algiers]
PF minutes, 1674-06-26, Rome
Tunis
Capuchins
Slave priests
Slaves (Christian)
Petitions for missionary patents
Minutes of PF general meeting of 26 June 1674 discussing among other issues, a letter from Carlo d'Ancona. Jean Le Vacher, vicar apostolic in Algiers, has sent him to be provicar in Tunis. D'Ancona reports on the state of the mission, and mentions that he found five priests (four slaves and one free). The latter Marcello Costa is a good priest, but the rest are mediocre, and cannot be trusted to have interests other than their liberty. D'Ancona thinks that the care of a bagnos should not be given to slave priests in the future. He also asks how to deal with a certain slave priest who wants to work in multiple bagnos, even though he has to celebrate mass with chains around his feet. Since D'Ancona has heard few good things about this priest, he asks whether he should let him continue his service or withdraw it altogether. The cardinals agree with the second proposition. Lastly, D'Ancona asks that PF confirm the patents that Le Vacher had given him, but the cardinals decide that there is no need to do so.
Additional comments
PF
APF ACTA 44, 170r, 189r-v, 47
1674-06-26
Latin
Italian
Minutes
673
Origin: Rome
Destination:
Report on the Scottish mission, 1674-07-21, [Rome]
Barbary (unspecified or several locations)
Capuchins
Conversion
Jesuits
Scottish Catholics abroad
Tripoli
Report on the Scottish mission. In 1668, PF received a report on the Scottish mission from the prefect Alesandro Winstero [Alexander Winster]. This report was discussed during PF meeting of 27 September 1669. After this meeting, the affairs of the Scottish mission were referred to this particular congregation.
In the report the following subjects are being discussed: a) the size and location of Scotland; b) the rule and language of Scotland; c) the location of the mission in Scotland; d) the amount of people; e) Catholicism, errors and abuse; f) the goods of the church; and g) the many obstacles the Holy Faith faces in Scotland. According to the law it is prohibited to say or listen to mass. Priests face the death penalty, and the lay people face the penalty of having their goods confiscated. The heretics also force the Catholics to go to their University, where they run the risk of conversion. Catholics are not allowed to take public office in Scotland, because they cannot take the required oath, and the number of missionaries in the area is insufficient; the solution to the last issue is better administration of the Scottish Colleges overseas. To achieve this, they propose the following solutions: 1) that all Colleges should receive a visitation that makes sure that the foundations of the Colleges are respected. The Scottish College in Paris claims that it was not founded to produce missionaries, but to house Scottish students who want to study at the university. After finishing their studies they were free to choose a career to their liking. Now however, new houses have been bought and there are 10 students (not including the superior, prefect and servants), who are all willing to return to Scotland. The missionaries in Scotland also select the students on their willingness to return. The procurator of the mission proposes that since the Nuncio will not be able to make the proposed visitation, they will ask Cardinal De Bouillon [Card'le di Buglione] to visit instead; both he and his uncle (marshal Turenne), are very affectionate to the Scottish nation. The second College is in Douai, and whilst the prefect is not sure with what intention the College was founded, it is believed that it always created its own revenue; there used to be around 30 students residing at the College. Nowadays, the Jesuits (who are the superiors of the College), state that the College has hardly any money, and that the original donation was not made to the College itself, but to their mission; there are also few students still living at the College. The secretary informs PF that on 8 February 1667 it was decided to let S'r Intern'o di Fiandra make the visitation. At that time however, the city was conquered by the French and he could not enter; 2) the third College is in Madrid, and according to the Prefect [Paluzio Altieri] it was founded by a Scottish nobleman, colonnello Sempelio [colonel Sempill]. Its noted that there have been very few students at the College, and it is administered by the Jesuits. The secretary [Francesco Ravizza] states that in 1668 Cardinal Borromeo [Federico Borromeo] had the instructions to visit the College (he was nuncio at the time), but he does not seem to have done this. The procurator will ask the current nuncio to make the visitation. The fourth College is in Rome. The procurator believes that cardinal Barbarini had visited this college often over the past few years. In general, the procurator states that the Colleges give little assistance to the mission. The College of Rome, which had the best chances of creating missionaries, has been limited to just four students. This is caused either by the Jesuits who do not chose capable students, or by the superiors and ministers of the College, who do not educate the youth with prudence and kindness. For the other Colleges, (except Paris, where the youths do not have any obligation to become missionaries), there does not seem to be of much use for the mission, at least for the secular clergy. This leaves the mission only protected by PF, who proposes that regular visits are made, in order to make the youth serve the nation. The prefect also asks the visitors of the Colleges to substitute any students that are not suitable for the mission. The prefect asks the visitors to instruct them in particular in Christian virtues, controversies, cases of conscience, in administering the sacraments, rites, ceremonial practices, and preaching, and they should also all visit conferences during their studies. The procurator of the mission adds that in the College of Rome they no longer carry out these expectations. For this reason, the students are forced to stay for some time in Paris, before going to the mission. The prefect proposes that when the students are not instructed in the Colleges, the rectors of these Colleges should be forced to send the students (at the expense of the Colleges) to a seminary. When the students are sent back to their countries without any experience as missionaries, they are of little use. The secretary states that during PF meeting of 4 February 1664, it was proposed that the students of the Scottish College in Rome would be used for some time to take care of the city's souls, in order to send them to the mission fully prepared; 3) the prefect believes that it would be better if the election of students for the College of Rome would be done by the prefect and the missionaries. They should find a person zealous to his country and the mission, and should check if the Colleges actually followed the instructions previously listed; the procurator says that without this last issue, all the others would be neglected or not be enforced at all; 4) due to the number of missionaries being very small, in comparison to the needs of the country (every day the number of Catholics is increasing), the prefect deems it necessary to increase the amount of missionaries. These should not only come from the College of Rome, but also the other Colleges. Right now there are eight missionaries divided over five dioceses, and the others do not currently have any missionaries; 5) it is not right that the only Irish missionary is Fran'co Bianchi [Francis White], who has worked for many fruitful years for the mission. According to White they could easily find more Irish missionaries with help from his brother. The prefect already asks to reserve 20 scudi as travel money for three or four persons. It is hoped that PF deems these people suitable, as one of the two Irish Franciscans of the mission has already died. The procurator says that in the Highlands and on the islands people are more inclined to the Holy faith, and that there is a smaller risk of persecution. The procurator proposes that they will focus their efforts on these areas, because he believes that the conversion of the Lowlands depends of those in the Highlands. The Irish Franciscans who went to the Highlands spoke the local language, but now they all left. If PF decides to use regular priests they should make sure that they understand that they are subjected to the prefect of the mission, from whom they receive faculties and provisions; 6) because all the requisites have been used, PF is asked to give the nuncio to France the money to buy portable altars. The procurator says that there is a big need for chasubles and chalices. All the priests should have their own, as they live very far away from each other. It should be made clear however, that these items belong to the mission and not to the missionaries themselves; 7) there should be money reserved to buy books on controversies and devotion, as they will be useful for not just the Catholics, but also among the heretics; 8) the immediate time after their arrival is always very hard for the missionaries. They have used all their traveling money, and have to wait an entire year before receiving their next provisions. The prefect asks PF to send the provision for the missionaries to the prefect, so that the missionaries can start working directly after they arrived. If someone is unable to go to the mission, it is up to the prefect to get the money back. The secretary states that this problem was recently resolved, when it was decided that the missionaries of Scotland would be paid one semester in advance; 9) the prefect asks to set a date for when the provisions begin, so that the missionaries know how much time they have before being paid. According to the secretary, this is the day that they start to work for the mission. In the case of illness, its noted that PF may continue to support the missionaries; 10) because PF has always been very zealous towards the Scottish mission, they want to find a way in which the missionaries can live honorable lives. The English missionaries own patrimonial goods, or are supported by noble houses where they serve as chaplains; regular priests might be supported by their superiors. The Scottish Catholics that own patrimonial goods, are layman or part of an order, and only very few become secular priests. At this moment none of the secular priests have any patrimonial goods. There are very few Catholics in Scotland, and they live very far away from each other. The missionaries first stay at one house for a few days and then travel further to another one. Even though they are staying with Catholics, they use their provision to pay for their living, and often live among heretics. It is common that they are very lonely, start to get bored and become very silent. At mass, they hardly ever receive money from the Catholics. The Catholics are usually very poor, as they are excluded from public office and forced to pay the protestant priests. The life of the missionaries is very insecure and full of fear, and they are afraid to leave without the license of PF. After receiving their license they either have to retreat for a while to recover from illness, or they are too old or tired to be of any use for the mission; they are forced to live the rest of their lives in poverty. The Jesuits for example have always received a subsidy and always stayed in Scotland, even during the most dangerous times. Some pious people from Paris sent Irish missionaries to the Highlands, and paid them 100 scudi for travel and living expenses. As these priests did not receive any alms, they were not able to pay for their living. The situation in Scotland is not the same as in England, and the mission needs a stable base. They ask PF to help the mission, because without any help this church cannot exist much longer, and the students will abandon the mission; 11) they propose to use the revenue of one of the Scottish Colleges for the mission itself. They suggest the College in Madrid as hardly any Scottish students went there, so it is of little value to the mission. It also would not be against the wishes of the founder, because he simply wanted to help his Fatherland, which is better served with the mission itself than with the College; 12) though the missionaries behave themselves, they could (because of their isolated position), ignore their duty if they are not controlled by the prefect. They ask that in the case of missionaries who have received multiple warnings, to give the prefect (together with two missionaries), permission to limit or revoke the faculties of these missionaries; 13) they ask PF to permit the prefect (or someone nominated by PF), to stay in Edinburgh. The council is located in Edinburgh, and it is also where the Catholics have to go for the courts; 14) the procurator says that if regular priests would work for the Scottish mission, they should be spread over the dioceses. This is applied to the secular priests, and they should not be allowed to just stay in comfortable areas, and the houses of Catholics; 15) there are three universities in Scotland, one in Glasgow, Aberdeen and St. Andrew, as well as a College in Edinburgh. It is suggested therefore that there should also be somewhere for the care of missionaries. They suggest that this be assigned to the Jesuits; 16) because there is no bishop is Scotland to administer the sacrament of confirmation, PF suggests that on occasion, a bishop from Ireland should visit; 17) there are many potential students for the Colleges of Rome, Madrid and Douai, and the Jesuits should make their decision, without any bias; 18) there are many Scots outside Scotland that have sworn to become missionaries but never did. Therefore they should be forced to return to the mission or send a substitute in their place; 19) the rectors of the Colleges should not receive any students without permission from the prefect of the mission, or at least from the missionaries themselves; 20) the Jesuits should be forced to teach the students in Scotland; 21) the Catholics are forced to send their children to the schools of the heretics, where they run the risk of being converted. PF asks thats all missionaries to do something about this, and to either make sure that the children have Catholic schoolmasters, or to send them to the school of the mission; 22) because the schoolmasters cannot live on the 30 scudi given to them, they have to ask for a provision from the students. They propose to forbid the schoolmasters from taking anything from the children, and instead raise their income to 60 scudi. This was already decided during PF meeting of 4 February 1664, however the prefect was satisfied with 30 scudi, and money being taken from the students; it was this reason however, why many students were not able to go to the schools; 23) since the two schoolmasters are secular they should become missionaries, and two other priests should be found in their place; 24) the prefect should be given the faculties to consecrate chalices and portable altars, as there is no bishop in Scotland. Its noted that the prefects in Asia work in the same way; 25) the house in Dieppe (which has already been approved by PF), depends completely on PF for money, and for other problems which have yet to be explained by Card’l Antonio b. [Antonio Barberini Jr.]. PF should provide the money for at least one house in Dieppe or Cacen [Caen?]. In this way the Scots will be more eager to work for the mission. PF does the same thing for the Franciscan mission in Albania, the mission in Cairo, Egypt, in Tripolo for the missions on the coast of Africa, the missions in India by the Theatines in Lisbon and Goa, and the Capuchins in Lisbon who work for the mission in the Congo; 26) they propose to give the nuncio’s to Flanders and to France the authority to give dimissorial letters to young Scots. This will make the Scots more eager to become part of the clergy, and does not force them to travel far away. This will also make them more loyal towards their own Fatherland; 27) at the College of PF, the students learn way more about ecclesiastical matters, which they do not learn with the Jesuits. Therefore they ask PF to receive someone from the Scottish Highlands, so that in time this person can work as schoolmaster; 28) PF has already been asked on several occassions to send a visitor to the mission, but it has never materialized since they have not been able to find a suitable person. They propose to choose a Scottish or Irish priest, in order to not to create any suspicion; 29) PF decided to have a superior general in Scotland, but this did not happen as the Jesuits opposed the plan. This would have allowed one person to oversee everything; the secular priests never gave any information on the regular priests, therefore PF never knows what they are doing. The secretary found a few relevant decrees on this matter, one from 9 July 1630, and the other from 5 August 1630. Both are on the office of superior for the Scottish mission; and 30) its requested by the faculty to the prefect, permission to nominate a vice-prefect who would substitute him in the case of absence or death; this happens in Asia and other remote places. In the case of death, all faculties should be given to the oldest missionary until PF appoints a new prefect. The secretary found a decree about this on the missions in Asia which is being cited. (A longer summary in English is available in the transcription file.)
Date discussed: 1674-07-21
Additional comments
Gio' Brenano is named as 'hora Vescouo/ Vaterfordien.' This must refer to the bishopric of Waterford and Lismore, who is indentified as John Brenan.
PF
APF CP 23, 176r-196v
1674-07-21
For thoughts on the doubts adressed at the end of this report, see: APF CP 23, 197r-200r (database item 810) and APF CP 23, 232r-v (database item 813).
For further discussions on the other issues adressed in this document, see: APF CP 23, 201r-202v (database item 811) and APF CP 23, 222r-225r (database item 812).
Original
Italian
Latin
Report
809
Origin: [Rome]
Report on the Scottish mission, 1674-07-21, [Rome]
Capuchins
Conversion
Jesuits
Scotland
Visitation
Since it had been decided that everything discussed in the Congregazione Particulare (CP) also has to be reported to the Congregazione Generale, they have made a list of everything that was decided during the meeting of 21 July 1674, on Scotland.
a) someone has to visit the four Scottish Colleges, and the first to be visited should be the College in Paris, which is administered by the Carthusians. They received an answer saying that they should speak with the prior general of the Carthusians in order to choose a visitor of this order, and they also wrote the nuncio to France about the matter. For the College in Douai, which is administered by the Jesuits, they should write to the internuncio and discuss the matter with the father general of the Jesuits. For the College in Madrid, they should write the nuncio to Spain, and also to Cardinal Borromeo. For the College in Rome, they should write to the most imminent protector; b) it was decided that students who want to become secular priests had to be selected for the Colleges. They received an answer that the Jesuits should choose students for the College of Rome, which are then approved by the prefect of the mission; c) it was decided that to increase the number of secular priests, it should be made clear that the congregation wants to use their services. Therefore a declaration should be made; d) it was decided that Irish missionaries should be sent into the mountains. They received the reply that this would be done; e) there is a big need for sacred furnishings. The proposal was accepted, and it was decided to discuss with the prior of the mission the amount of furnishings needed; f) there was also a big need for books. They responded that when it was made clear what books were needed, they would provide them; g) it was decided that the provisions should be paid earlier to the missionaries, and this was approved; h) it should be made clear on what day the missionaries begin receiving the provision. This issue was approved; i) they should use the revenues from the College in Madrid for the mission itself, since there are not any Scottish students there anyway. They received an answer stating that the nuncio should be written to about the way in which the goods ought to be sold, and they should wait for his report; j) sometimes it might be necessary to limit the faculties of the missionaries, or to remove them from the mission. The issue about the faculties was approved; k) it was said that the prefect should stay in Edinburgh. They have decided that it should be left to the prefect to decide; l) it was decided that the missionaries should be spread equally over the dioceses. They received the answer that the superiors of the religious orders should be instructed to do this; m) there should be some missionaries present at the Universities to convert talented students. It was decided that the father general of the Jesuits should be written to about this; n) as there is no-one to administer the sacrament of confirmation, an Irish bishop should be sent on certain occasions into Scotland. They received the answer that the internuncio should be written to regarding his matter, in order to know from what diocese this would be the easiest; o) there should be youths deemed suitable, selected for the Colleges. They were instructed to speak with the superiors, and for the College of Rome, it was already decided that they should ask the approval of the prefect; p) the prefects should have the faculty to recall missionaries that are absent. They received the answer, saying that the prefect should have this faculty in order to force the missionaries to keep their oath; q) it was decided that the Colleges should not receive Scottish students without the approval of the prefect of the mission. This was approved; r) it was decided that students should be taught within their own country. They received the answer that they should discuss this with the father general of the Jesuits; s) it should be forbidden for Catholics to attend heretic schools. They received the answer that the missionaries should be instructed to prohibit Catholics from going to the schools of the heretics; t) it was said that the provision of the schoolmasters should be raised. It was decided that the provision should be raised to 50 scudi, and it was prohibited to take money from the students (or their parents), under the penalty of excommunication; u) it was suggested that the schoolmasters should only be secular priests. This was approved; v) it was said that the prefect should have the faculty to consecrate chalices and portable altars. They responded that this had already been approved; w) it was said that they needed a hospital for retired missionaries in either Dieppe, Caen, or in Normandy. It was decided that the funds necessary for such a house should be assigned to the project; x) it was said that the prefect should have the faculties to give dimissorial letters. They received the answer saying that the faculties had been conceded to the prefect by the rectors of the pontifical Colleges, for 12 years.
y) It was said that in the college of Rome they should especially host students from the mountain areas. They received an answer saying that they should wait for the report of the most eminent protectors; z) it was said that there should be a visitation to the mission. They received an answer stating that they should ask the nuncio to France for a suitable person; aa) It was suggested that there should be a superior for the whole mission, both secular and regular. They received an answer saying that they wrote the nuncio to France and the internuncio to Belgium, requesting information for a suitable candidate for superior; ab) It was said that they should elect a vice-prefect. They received an answer saying that the current situation should be maintained; ac) it was said that the Prefect should have the authority to give faculties to those who have not been declared missionaries by PF. They received an answer saying that they wanted to maintain the old situation; ad) it was said that the mission should receive some kind of grant, as Pope Urban did when he gave 4,000 scudi for the foundation of a Scottish convent in Avignon, and as Pope Alexander did for the mission of the Cevenne in the Linguadoc; ae) it should be made clear whether the students of the Colleges need to receive absolution for irregularity, as they usually have been heretics, or are the children of heretics; af) there are some books that should be translated, especially the one by 'Spondano' [Henri de Sponde]. This request is accepted; ag) they will also pay for the translation of 'Baronio' in English, which could be done by 'Valcherio' [John Walker]; and ah) other points of doubt were also discussed. They received an answer saying that this should be done by someone else.
Date discussed: 1674-07-21
Additional comments
This is made on a meeting of CP, the Congregazione Particolare on Scotland, made for the General meeting of PF, GP, the Congregazione Generale.
PF
APF CP 23, 222r-225r
1674-07-23
[Adressed to PF]
These points have first been adressed in the a CP report on the mission in Scotland, see: APF CP 23, 176r-196v (database item 809).
CP has taken notes about the issues adressed before, but these seem to be in an earlier stage, see: APF CP 23, 201r-202v (database item 811).
original; unsigned
Latin
Report
812
Origin:[Rome]
Letter from PF to Cardinal De Massimi, 1675-01-29, Rome
Tunis
Capuchins
Trinitarians
Slaves (Christian)
Letter from PF to Cardinal De Massimi. The cardinal had communicated to PF, that Trinitarian Father Mendeita commented on the accusations of eight slaves in Tunis against the Capuchin Carlo d’Ancona, who is provicar in Tunis. Since Cardinal De Massimi advised PF to secretly write to Tunis, the cardinals of PF now ask him to do so himself. The letter dated 29 January 1675.
Additional comments
PF
APF LETTERE 64, 5r
1675-01-29
Addressed to Cardinal De Massimi
Italian
Letter
625
Origin: Rome
Destination: Rome
Summary of the case of Luigi Da Palermo, 1677-08-02, [Rome]
Capuchins
Conversion
Ransom
Slaves (Christian)
Tunis
Summary of the case of Luigi Da Palermo. The Capuchin Commissary General Gios'e Da Ica [Gioseppe Da Ica] has brought a case to PF against Luigi [Da Palermo]. He reports that Luigi did not live a good religious life, and that he took 250 piastre from the church. Luigi said he used this money to ransom two Spanish slaves, and because he feared punishment he fled from Palermo to Rome. He also claims that Gioseppe is persecuting him for private reasons, and that he actually spent the money to ransom Pietro De Salorsano and Giseppe Di Leona. He asks PF to investigate the case and protect his reputation. Luigi Da Palermo also presented a letter written by Luigi De Losio, but because he forgot his duty, he went to Sicily. PF decided in the meeting of 6 October 1671, in presence of the pope, to deprive Luigi Da Palermo of his active and passive voice. After this decision was passed down, Luigi Da Palermo has presented documents asking to restore his active and passive voice. Its noted that he had been forced to leave the mission for the following reasons: a) he had to protect and control the ransoming in his native Palermo; b) he had to bring Filippo Brescia from Trapani back to Christianity, as he had spontaneously travelled to Tunis to convert himself; and c) he has written to both PF and Levacher [Jean Le Vacher] for over a year, but has yet to recieve a response. He has started to believe that all his letters have been lost, therefore he believed it would be best for him to travel to Rome himself, leaving the city in the good hands of the other missionaries. The father general thinks that Luigi should be granted the grace he is asking for.
Date discussed: 1677-08-02
Additional comments
PF
APF SOCG 465, 225r, 234r-v
1677-08-02
This summary also appears in the ACTA: APF ACTA 47164r, 165v-167r (not in this database).
Italian
Summary
794
Origin: [Rome]
PF minutes, 1678-03-29, Rome
Barbary (unspecified or several locations)
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Ransom
Minutes of PF general meeting of 29 March 1678 discussing among other issues, a petition on behalf of the Venetian slaves in Algiers, Tunis and Tripoli. They ask that PF allow two Capuchins per city for the purpose of handling ransom money, because they have nobody from their own region on whom they can rely on. They currently have to do business with Jews, but this only makes the problems more difficult, instead of helping the slaves. The cardinals agree to the solution of sending two Capuchins per city.
Additional comments
PF
APF ACTA 48, 64r, 71v-72r, issue 19
1678-03-29
See for the petition discussed during this meeting: APF SOCG 468, 131r, 132v (database item 662).
Latin
Italian
Minutes
678
Origin: Rome
Destination:
PF minutes, 1680-04-08, Rome
Algiers
Capuchins
Other religious orders
Conversion
Minutes of PF general meeting of 8 April 1680 discussing among other issues, letters from Vincenzo da Frascati and Francesco Gatta about the mission in Algiers. They write that they work to keep the Christians faithful and that there would be many conversions to Catholicism, were it not for the many scandals caused by Christians, (especially by priests). The cardinals decide to ask Jean Le Vacher for more information about the issue.
Additional comments
PF
APF ACTA 50, 98r, 112v-113v, issue 27
1680-04-08
See for the letter that was subsequently sent to Jean Le Vacher, APF LETTERE 69, 127r-v (database item 641).
Elsewhere, there is a reference to this meeting, see: APF SOCG 498, 181r-182v, 184v (database item 808).
Latin
Italian
Minutes
683
Origin: Rome
Destination:
PF minutes, 1681-09-30, Rome
Algiers
Capuchins
Mercedarians
Other religious orders
Renegades
Slave priests
Slaves (Christian)
Tunis
Minutes of PF General meeting of 30 September 1682 discussing amongst other issues, the case of Vincenzo Frascati and Francesco Gatta (which was dicussed during PF meeting of 8 April 1680). They are both missionaries in Tunis, and its believed that should there have not been so many public scandals concerning the areas local priests, they would have had better results with the Christian slaves. PF decided to write the vicar apostolic [Jean Le Vacher], to gain more information about the issue. The vicar apostolic offered PF his apologies for his delayed response, as it took more than a year for him to receive the letter. His response contained information from the Provicar [of Algiers, Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna], and two missionaries [Vincenzo Da Frascati and Francesco Gatta]. The first scandal was committed by Antonio Calendino, a slave from Coscenza. He acted as a clown and played the guitar with the Ciaia of his Turkish patron, and feasted with prostitutes. He threatened the missionaries to let him say mass, even though he did not have any papers proving that he was a priest. He also told the missionaries that he commited a murder in Napels and had been imprisoned for four years. Eventually he left for Livorno.
The second case was Diego D'Avolos, a Spanish Mercenarian, who was killed by a gunshot in a case involving the wife of a rennegade. During the same incident, another priest Giovanni Pelij was also hurt. He was not allowed to say mass for a month to punish him, and after this he has led a better life. The third case was caused by Felice da Marta, a Minim priest, who won 80 pezze from Giuseppe Calabro (a slave of the Pasca), who forced Felice to pay the money back. Afterwards it was easy to apprehend him, since he was no longer the slave of an influential person. The fourth priest to cause a scandal was Carlo della Maltese, a Franciscan. Whilst playing cards with a Greek they got into a fight, which caused blood to be shed. When the Bey found out, he had the Greek imprisoned and rounded up all the missionaries to ask them whether it was allowed for a priest to play cards. The missionaries informed him that it was not allowed, and insisted that it was absolutely forbidden. The Bey handed the priest over to the missionaries, and told them to punish him. The Greek was again enslaved, and due to the Greeks attempting to also enslave Felice, he was sent on a ship travelling to Livorno. Le Vacher also wrote that the small island of Tabarca and at another place called Caponegro (which were both part of the kingdom of Tunis) are inhabited by Genoese. In Tabarca there are some Augustinians, and in the other place a Trinitarian. Le Vacher does not know whether they were given permission to travel to these areas, and also if they have the authority to act as priests. He asks PF to clarify if these two places are subjected to his vicariate. Le Vacher concluded the letter, by informing PF of his happiness at the impending arrival of Mercedarian priests of Aragon and Andalusia.
Date discussed: 1681-09-30
Additional comments
PF
APF SOCG 498, 181r-182v, 184v
1681-09-30
For the letter of Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna, Vicenzo Da Frascati and Francesco Gatta, see: APF SOCG 498, 177r-v, 180r (database item 806).
For the letter of Jean Le Vacher, see: APF SOCG 498, 178r-179r (database item 807).
For the earlier PF meeting mentioned in this one, see: APF ACTA 50, 98r, 112v-113v, issue 27 (database item 683).
Italian
Latin
Minutes
808
Origin: [Rome]
Statement by Antonio Amarroty about the conflict between Antonio Di Seravezza and Jean Ambrozin, 1669-12-12, Marseille
Tunis
Capuchins
Conversion
Malta
Ransom
Franciscans
Renegades
Seravezza case
Copy of a statement on behalf of Antonio Di Seravezza, a Minor Observant from Rome, who also served as vicar apostolic in Tunis and Tripoli for three years, after he received this authority by Girolamo Da Sassari. In September 1668 he left Tunis for Rome. The French consul in Tunis, Giovanni Ambrogini [Jean Ambrozin] should have collected alms for S. Antonio Abate, in order to buy the necessary things for the church, and also in order to conserve the churchyard; he should also have bought a gift for the Agha. The consul has always been aware of this, but never said anything to the church nor given alms. For this reason Girolamo Da Sassari (the apostolic vicar at the time), threatened to report the case to the pope and the king of France, if the consul would not concede the alms to the church; the consul responded that he did not know any pope, cardinal or king, after which Girolamo Da Sassari was forced to leave. Knowing that his abscence would leave the community without a leader, he [Da Sassari] decided to leave Antonio Di Seravezza in his place. The latter left the bagno of S.ta Lucia and took the room in the house of the consul, that Girolamo Da Sassari had previously used. In December 1669 a French woman called Chiara was ransomed, the greater part was paid by the merchants and slaves. The consul gave the woman a room in his residence very close to his own, and next to the chapel and the altar. When Antonio Di Seravezza said the midnight mass of Easter in the chapel of the consulate, there were many merchants and slaves present, only the consul and Chiara were absent. When he asked the merchants and slaves were they were, they said that the consul had laid in bed with the woman. After this night a servant of the consul named Pietro went to the room of Di Seravezza and asked him to do something about the scandalous situation of his master. At Easter Di Seravezza said mass in all the chapels, after which he went to the consulate where he begged the consul to put the woman on a ship that would soon leave for France. The consul responded, saying that the woman did not want to go to France but to Livorno, in order to be able to travel to Sardinia where her husband lived. Di Seravezza was trying to help the consul, but he took offence and continued in his vice. All the nations started saying that the residence of the French consul was a public brothel, but the consul kept refusing to send the woman away. During Ascension Di Seravezza went to all the bagni to take confessions, after which he returned very tired to the consulate. When passing by the room of the consul, he saw things he cannot describe. He told the consul that he was not living a Christian life, that he would leave his residence, and that the consul should take in mind that his room was so close to the Holy sacrament. The consul responded by stating that he would remove the sacrament, and that he could do whatever he wanted in his own residence; the consul later beat Di Seravezza with a stick and told him that he had to leave his house. He moved to the bagno of S. Leonardo, and the sacrament was also moved. The consul went to the Bey and told him that Di Seravezza had remained in Tunis, in order to make the slaves and renegades flee. Di Seravezza was arrested and beaten up, and as they were about to enslave him, the highest person after the Agha said that he never heard any bad things about Di Seravezza, stating that he risked his own life by going to Malta to mediate for the Christian slaves. He was saved by this person, and he told Di Seravezza that he has always done good things, and that he should not live with the consul anymore. The Agha then went to the consul and orded him to send the woman away, after which she was sent to Livorno. The consul kept trying to condemn Di Seravezza, but with God's help, the Turks kept saving him. In July 1669 Di Seravezza converted two jews, who were named Giuseppe and Angiolo, and stayed in the house of a merchant named Labar. The consul used this situation to his advantage, by saying to the Bey that he already warned him about this, but that he did not want to believe him. The two rennegades were found in the house of Labar. When they were questioned they answered that they were Christians and that they were converted by God. They were tortured and confessed that it had been Di Seravezza who converted them. After being tortured they said that they wanted to become Turks, and because of the consul, these two souls were lost. The consul paid Turks and rennegades to beat Di Seravezza. Afterwards, the merchants and slaves decided that he had to go to Marseille. There in the convent he received a visit from Monsù Pras, who told Di Seravezza that he should be patient, as it would take another year until Ambrozin's consulate would be over. Di Seravezza said that this was too long, and that he could not leave five or six thousand souls without mass or the possibility to confess; Di Seravezza insisted that he [Pras] should think about the interests of the church, and about the Missione della Servitù that had made him chaplain; Monsù Pras only laughed about this, and Di Seravezza said that if he laughed about such a serious matter, he would go to Paris and plead his case to the king. Pras said that he would never reach Paris, and even if he did he would not get an audience. Di Seravezza responded by saying that he would bring his case to Rome. Eventually he decided to stay in Rome, as he did not want to make such a long trip for little purpose. However as it was winter and he was old, he decided to stay in Marseille. After the consuls of the cities visited him, and he told them everything about the case, and they had read the reports from merchants and slaves from Tunis, they told him that justice would be done; they would try to remove Amrozin from the consulate in order to let Di Seravezza resume his position as vicar apostolic.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
There is also a later version of this document (from 1670); there, the first part is missing. At the end there is another line, saying: "Io Antonio Amarroty Mercante in Marsiglia fu fede e Confesso di hauer/ tradutto a litteram il presente verbale di francesce in Italiano." See: APF SC Barbaria 1, 178r-180v (database item 880).
Nicolas de Bausset
Antonio Amarroty
APF SOCG 430, 248r-249v, 255r-256r
1669-12-12
Adressed to [PF]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41 305r, 330r-338r.
This verbale or statement is also mentioned elsewhere, see: APF SC Barbaria 1, 176r-177v (database item 879). For a later version of the same document (from 1670), see: APF SC Barbaria 1, 176r-177v (database item 880).
Copy
Italian
Statement
734
Origin: Marseille
Destination:
Letter from Marcello Costa to the PF Secretary Urbano Cerri, 1674-01-29, Tunis
Algiers
Bizerte
Capuchins
Renegades
Slaves (Christian)
Slave priests
Tunis
Letter from Marcello Costa to PF secretary. A month and a half ago he was assigned 30 scudi annually for the mission in Bizerte, for which he received the patent from Monsù Levacher [Jean Le Vacher]. This meant that he lost the right to receive 24 scudi annually for the mission in Tunis. Costa asked PF to repay Le Vacher the 30 scudi that he already gave to Costa. PF replied with a letter, writing that he would not receive his money before arriving in Bizerte, and he directly sent a letter back to PF in which he explained everything. However, according to Rapo Hapro this letter was aboard of a ship that sunk, hence why he is writing another letter. He already served for three years in different missions in Barbary, all at his own costs. In this area there are 20,000 Christians that never see a priest. Le Vacher knew this, and also knew how much debt Costa acquired helping them; because of this reason, he granted Costa 30 scudi. Costa has debts for 28 scudi, not because he spent money on food or clothing, but because he spent it for the church. He lost not only his money for the mission but also his health. Unfortunately he is unable to pay the 30 scudi back that Le Vacher had loaned him, and eventually to raise some money, he sold his Breviary. There are 15 bagnos in the city, and for the souls to be helped, it is necessary that PF pays the expenses. Whilst there are four other priests they are of little use; one is blind, the second an idiot who hardly knows how to say mass, the third has been freed and is about to leave, and the fourth has been chained and is not allowed to leave the bagno. It is important that PF is aware of the things that Costa is writing, as it is very dangrous to travel around in the area. If PF would decide to grant him 100 scudi annually this would be most just and necessary. He has not yet travelled to Bizerte, and he feels sorry for the souls that will be lost now. They are about to lose the great saint of the church of Africa, Jean Le Vacher, for he is too ill to leave his bed; he has spasms in his leg, which is likely to result in amputation. The two Capuchins destined for the mission have not arrived, and during feastdays he takes care of five altars all by himself. When he comes home he is so tired that he does not eat but goes directly to sleep.
Date discussed: 1674-06-26
Additional comments
Marcello Costa
APF SOCG 448, 140r-v, 145r-v
1673-01-29
Addressed to Urbano Cerri
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 44, 170r, 185v-186v, issue 39 (database item 672).
Original; signed
Italian
Letter
779
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Marcello Costa to the PF prefect [Paluzio Altieri], 1674-04-12, tunis
Bizerte
Capuchins
Petitions for missionary patents
Trinitarians
Tunis
Letter from Marcello Costa to PF prefect. In a letter from 30 September 1673 PF asked him to help two Tinitarians, Francesco Arendieta and Francesco Ruiz; they are still in Tabarca, but will need to be supported once they arrive. On 5 March two Capuchins arrived, Carlo D'Ancona and Vincenzo Da Frascati. The first has become provicar apostolic of Tunis. Costa himself also undertakes many missions because the two brothers mentioned above, are not able to ride on horseback, and are also not familar with the countryside. Levacher [Jean Le Vacher] has given Costa the patents for the provicariate of Bizerte, which began last October for the duration of three years. He asks PF to send him a confirmation of this position, and sends a copy of his patents to PF. PF granted Costa an annual provision of 24 scudi which is ending in August; this is why he asks PF to prolong the provision for five years. He needs the money for his living, but also for a man who assists him in his work. Besides the expenses for horses, he is also very sorry that he did not buy a habit for himself. He did not slow down his work once the other brothers arrived, as there are still many missions to do. Serving in the bagnos is a pleasant activity, but travelling on horseback for 50 or 60 miles through harsh conditions is the harder and realer part of the mission; he risks his life travelling around, and is forced to sleep on the ground between the animals.
Date discussed: 1674-06-26
Additional comments
Marcello Costa
APF SOCG 448, 140r-v, 145r-v
1674-04-12
Adressed to Paluzio Altieri
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 44, 170r, 185v-186v, issue 39 (database item 672).
This is a response to a letter from PF which is also mentioned by Costa, see: APF LETTERE 62, 86r (database item 618).
See for the copy of Marcello Costa's patents as pro-vicar of Bizerte: APF SOCG 448, 142r (database item 781).
Original; signed
Italian
Letter
780
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo to PF, 1670-08-10, Tunis
Tunis
Bizerte
Capuchins
Ransom
Seravezza case
Franciscans
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo to PF in which he mentions the following issues: a) he had thought that Antonio Di Seravezza was vicar apostolic in Tunis, until he saw a letter from PF to Jean Le Vacher, that clearly stated that Di Seravezza had no such authority. Da Palermo suggests that Di Seravezza might not know about the ecclesiastical censures one incurs, by assuming such authority without license to do so; b) Di Seravezza has even administered the sacrament of confirmation in Bizerte; c) a certain Domenico Bernabò had entrusted 150 piastre to Di Seravezza, however the sum was never returned to him; d) a Greek Orthodox Father desires to become Catholic. This would be dangerous if his master found out about it, so first he must be ransomed for the sum of 300 piastres; and e) a Stefano, who is an Armenian who was captured on his way to Rome (where he intended to study), is being treated very badly by his master, because he is black. He could be ransomed for 150 piastre. For the last three cases Da Palermo asks for financial help from PF. During their meeting of 12 January 1671, the cardinals decided: 1) another letter should be written to Di Seravezza's superiors, and that otherwise PF should issue an order for his arrest (at the secretary's suggestion); 2) they decided that information should be requested from Father Lommellino; and 3) Bernabò's superior should be consulted. On the ransom issues, it is decided that the case should be recommended to the Padri del Riscatto. The letter dated 10 October 1670.
Date discussed 1671-01-12
Additional comments
Luigi Da Palermo
APF SOCG 426, 90r, 91r, 93v
1670-08-10
Addressed to PF
Italian
Latin
Letter
650
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo to PF, 1670-10-20, Tunis
Tunis
Capuchins
Franciscans
Seravezza case
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo to PF. He writes this letter to inform PF about the situation concerning Antonio Di Seravezza. Di Seravezza has abused the authority of the church and divided the Christians in Tunis, which has created disorder. He has also sent two priests from his order [Minor Observants] to Tripoli. From the decree [that Di Seravezza issued on 21 August 1670] one can see his arrogant behaviour. Luigi also wrote about this situation to his vicar general [Jean Le Vacher].
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
Luigi Da Palermo
APF SOCG 430, 232r
1670-10-20
Adressed to PF
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41, 305r, 330r-338r.
With "the decree" Luigi Da Palermo probably means the decree issued by Di Seravezza on 1670-08-21: APF SOCG 430, 229r (database item 721).
Original; signed
Italian
Letter
724
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo to PF, 1670-11-15, Tunis
Tunis
Tripoli
Capuchins
Franciscans
Seravezza case
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo to PF. He confirms that the apostolic vicar in Algiers Jean Le Vacher has freed him, after he was captured from a French ship. The titular archbishop of Erevan, Persia, has arrived in Tunis, which has brought Luigi much consolation. The church [in Tunis] is doing well, and much has changed since Antonio Di Seravezza had pretended to be vicar general (which had caused division among the Christians). Luigi still asks PF for a confirmation of his position [as vicar apostolic of Tunis], because many still believe that Antonio Di Seravezza is the rightfull vicar apostolic. Luigi also writes that there is a great need for money to free Christian slaves, who are tempted to renounce their faith.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
Luigi Da Palermo
APF SOCG 430, 233r-v
1670-11-15
Adressed to PF
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41, 305r, 330r-338r.
Original; signed
Italian
Latin
Letter
725
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo to [the PF secretary, Federico Baldeschi], 1670-12-10, Tunis
Capuchins
Conversion
Ransom
Slaves (Christian)
Seravezza case
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo. He writes that he is very grateful for everything that has been done for him. He asks for the confirmation of his position as vicar apostolic of Tunis, because some Christians only accept the authority of Antonio Di Saraveza, who also claims to be apostolic vicar of Tunis. Luigi also asks for money in order to ransom Christian slaves. Many of them have been forced by their masters to renounce their faith.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
Luigi Da Palermo
APF SOCG 430, 225r-v
1670-12-10
Adressed to [the PF secretary, Federico Baldeschi]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41, 305r, 330r-338r.
Original; signed
Italian
Letter
720
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo to PF, 1671-04-10, Tunis
Tunis
Ransom
Slaves (Christian & Muslim)
Renegades
Capuchins
Letter from Luigi Da Palermo (apostolic vicar in Tunis), on the case of Vincenzo Piccinini, who in 1661 brought 21 renegades with his ship to Rome. Piccinini also received 1,000 piastres from the Dey of Tunis in order to free a Turkish slave. However, when Picccinini returned to Tunis, he was enslaved himself. During his enslavment in Tunis, the Dey (who orginally gave him the money) and two of his heirs died, therefore they were unable to claim the money. Piccinini wants to use the 1,000 piastres to ransom himself. Luigi Da Palermo also writes about the suffering of the Christian slaves in Tunis, and that in some cases it would be relatively cheap to ransom a slave. He also reports that currently there are 3 priests in Tunis, among whom is Marcello Costa, who has just arrived.
Date discussed: 1671-06-15
Additional comments
Luigi Da Palermo
APF SOCG 428, 14r-v, 16v
1671-04-10
Adressed to PF
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41 153r, 155r, 156r.
Original; signed
Italian
Latin
Letter
711
Origin: Tunis
Destination: Rome
Defense of Luigi Da Palermo, [1677]
Capuchins
Conversion
Ransom
Tunis
Defense of Luigi Da Palermo, and the reasons why he had to travel to Palermo: a) to protect and control the ransoming of slaves in his native Palermo, as one can obtain in a letter sent to PF. He also had to bring the safe conducts from the customs to Palermo; b) to bring Filippo Brescia, a doctor who spontaneously went to Tunis to convert, safely back into Christendom. He also brought back with him to Palermo two Spanish slaves (ransomed fro 400 piastre), and he asks the viceroy for 250 piastre that he had previously lent the chruch of Tunis; and c) he felt obliged to go to Rome himself, because he never received an answer from the letters that he wrote for an entire year to Gio' le Vascier [Jean Le Vacher] and PF. The letters were about the children and women that were about to lose their faith.
Date discussed: 1677-08-02
Additional comments
Luigi Da Palermo
APF SOCG 465, 228r
[1677]
Adressed to PF
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 47164r, 165v-167r (not in this database).
Italian
Varia
796
Origin: unknown
Destination: [Rome]
Petition on behalf of Luigi Da Palermo, [1677]
Capuchins
CM petitions
Conversion
Ransom
Renegades
Slaves (Christian)
Tunis
Petition on behalf of unknown to PF. Luigi Da Palermo sent a long letter explaining his situation. He has been enslaved in Algiers, and he postponed ransoming himself, in order to work all day and night for the poor souls. His [Capuchin] procurator general has revealed the great merit he had for the mission: he converted two heretics and Renegato Valentiano. Gio LeVascier [Jean Le Vacher] ransomed him with the promise that he would work for the mission as vicar apostolic of Tunis, and vicar general of Carthage, and he has been approved as provicar by PF. When he arrived in Tunis, he ended the quarrels among different groups. He has brought great success to the mission, despite there being only few missionaries; one of whom was Marcello Costa, as one can read from the defense. Two heretics coverted to Catholism due to his work, and one was a poor Gerbino who converted and promised to flee to Malta. He tried to reconcile the two Christians with each other, however the following night, they got into a fight, and one of them cut the other with a knife. He was severly injured, and whilst he lay dying on the ground, he was consoled by Luigi Da Palermo, who gave confession and forgave his murderer. The other (the murderer), was sentenced to death by the dogana, however first he converted, repented his sins and confessed. He was resolved from his sins and from excommunication. His arms and legs were cut off and he was dragged through the city. After this, when he was black and swollen, he was burned under the window of Luigi Da Palermo. Then he was dragged through the city for a second time, and was eventually burried with many stones. The Christians saw that Luigi Da Palermo was beaten to the ground, and believed him to be dead. They thought it a great miracle not only that he was alive but also that he was not hurt. He baptised a child from a Christian slave, despite her master not wanting the child to be baptised; after two weeks the child died and went to heaven. Two Greek women were bought by two Christians, who mistreated them. Many renegades come to Luigi Da Palermo stating that they are confused and afraid that heaven would be closed to them. Luigi advised them to flee to the Christian world, write down their names (including surname) and place of origin, and to send these details to Christianity, so that their punishment will be lessened. Luigi Da Palermo told the French consul of Tunis, Gio' Ambrosino [Jean Ambrozin] that he could not take the money that belonged to the church of Tunis. Because of Ambrozin many souls will now be lost. PF has sent a message to Jean Le Vacher, asking him to make sure that he will do something about the consul. The alms are used to help the sick, the poor and afflicted Christians. There was also a woman in Tunis, with two virgin daughters from Corsica. Luigi Da Palermo and the other missionaries discussed who in the Christian world could help these people. They all agreed that they should ask the grand duke of Tuscany, and whilst Luigi was in Palermo, 1000 scudi arrived in Tunis to free all three of them. Filippo Brescia from the city of Trepani arrived in Tunis with the plan of the renegade. Luigi visited him, took him to his house, converted him and took care of him. Eventually he sent him back to Christendom. There were also two freed Christians who couldn't leave the city because they had no money to pay the port. Luigi collected 60 piastre, payed the port and they could leave for Messina. Luigi always used to go to the bodies of S. Perpetua and Felicità in Turbura, and he was planning to spend the 280 piastre he had collected from alms for them. Eventually though he decided to spend it on the ransoming of the two souls. There were also two young Spaniards, who were tortured into renouncing their faith because their masters wanted to take them to Mecca. He lent them money from French merchants, also and took money from S. Leonardo and S. Lucia to ransom the boys, and send them back to the Christian world. In Sicily he presented the boys to the viceroy who promissed to pay the debts. Because of an uproar the viceroy had to leave for Messina. Luigi Da Palermo went to Rome, disillusioned as he was, and presented the great need of the mission. PF did not take this very well, and he was sent back to Palermo until further notice. He than again returned to Rome, after which his active and passive voice was taken away. Luigi Da Palermo has been prosecuted for theft for six years because he would have stolen 250 piastre; this has ruined his reputation. Luigi Da Palermo has a letter written in Spanish from Luis de Loyo, the curator of the royal patrimony in Sicily, about the 200 piastre from S. Francesco used for Pietro de Salorsano [one of the freed slaves]; he also wrote a letter defending Luigi Da Palermo, and Giuseppe De Leon (the other slave) is in Sicily. Luigi has always done good work for the mission. If he is found guilty, he should be punished, but if he is found innocent, it would not be right to let him suffer any longer, and to further ruin his reputation. When asking to return to Tunis, he asks for further hardship without pay, as in these countries one is in continuous risk of losing one's life for Christ. In the case that PF does not want to use the services of Luigi any longer, they should repay the money to the churches in Tunis. Luigi already paid 50 to S. Francesco and would have payed the rest after his return. They could also asked the other freed slave, Giuseppe De Leon, to repay the money and save Luigi's reputation.
Date discussed: 1677-08-03
Additional comments
Luigi Da Palermo
APF SOCG 465, 231r-232r, 233v
[1677]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 47164r, 165v-167r (not in this database).
Italian
Petition
797
Origin: unknown
Destination: Rome
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF, 1671-01-20, Algiers
Algiers
Capuchins
Conversion
Slaves (Christian)
Trinitarians
Tunis
Slave priests
Letter from the vicar apostolic in Algiers Jean Le Vacher, who writes that he has ransomed a Capuchin (Luigi Da Palermo) for 677 scudi, and that he sent him to Tunis to help the people there. Luigi Da Palermo has also written to Le Vacher about an Ethiopian slave named Stefano, who endures many beatings because he does not want to renounce his faith; it would cost 177 piastre to free him. Jean Le Vacher also writes that the Christians live virtuously, which has motivated some heretics to convert. The slave priests there need three piastre a month in order to be able to feed and dress themselves. The slaves from the Papal States have no hope of being saved, while slaves from other areas are regularly ransomed; for instance, there are many Trinitarians from Castile, Andalusia and Flanders who ransom people from their own areas. Because of their hopeless situation, the slaves from the Papal States are tempted to renounce the faith. Some declared themselves subjects of the king of France so that they could be ransomed. PF decides that Cardinal de Maximus will give money to the Trinitarians, so that they can free Stefano and other Christian slaves from the Papal States.
Date discussed: 1671-08-03
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 429, 278r-279v
1671-01-20
Adressed to PF
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41, 243r, 252r-v.
There is a letter by PF which is probably the response to this one, see: APF Lettere 57, 75r (database item 863).
Original; signed
Italian
Latin
Letter
716
Origin: Algiers
Destination: Rome
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF, 1671-07-01, Algiers
Algiers
Ransom
Trinitarians
Tunis
Capuchins
Slave priests
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF. They probably know by now that Luigi Da Palermo has returned to Sicily, and has left the mission of Tunis. Le Vacher had ransomed him for 650 piastre and given him the position of provicar apostolic for three years. Now he is of the understanding that there is talk of Luigi being ransomed by others and not by him, and that he is therefore free to go wherever he wants. Because this is something other than what Le Vacher has told PF, he will show them proof. He also informs PF about the Trinitarian Bartolomeo Da Serrano, who did not want to show Le Vacher his faculties. Moreover he administered the sacraments in inappropriate places, and tried to stop Le Vacher going to the chapels that he administered. Because he could not solve the problem in a friendly way, he has decided to threathen Da Serrano with interdiction if he keeps administering the sacrements, and does not show his faculties.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 430, 289r-v, 293r
1671-07-01
Adressed to [PF]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 41 305r, 330r-338r.
See for the statement of El Sidy El Hagi Gigeri and Mehamet Langét about the ransoming of Luigi Da Palermo, APF SOCG 430, 289r-v, 293r (database item 741).
See for the statement of a group of priests in Algiers: APF SOCG 430, 291r (database item 742).
See for the statement of Jean Dubourdieu, the consul of Algiers: APF SOCG 292r (database item 743).
Original;signed
Italian
Letter
740
Origin: Algiers
Destination: Rome
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to a Capuchin, 1671-11-13, Algiers
Tunis
Capuchins
Ransom
Slaves (Christian)
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to a certain member of the Capuchin order, in which he describes how he ransomed the Capuchin Luigi Da Palermo. Le Vacher used all his money so that Da Palermo could go and work in Tunis. Da Palermo promised to stay there for at least three years, but he left after only a few months, breaking his promise. Le Vacher now asks whether he can be sent back or whether another Capuchin can take his place. The letter dated 13 November 1671.
Date discussed [1672-05-30]
Additional comments
To this letter another letter was added (APF SOCG 433, 2r, 3v; not in this database), written by Marcello Costa and others on 25 December 1671, asking that Luigi Da Palermo be sent back to the mission because his work there was very beneficial for the mission and for the Christians in Tunis. That letter is signed by: Agostino Rossi, a slave priest, Giovanni Luca Bianco, priest, a free Frenchman De Lebar, someone called Picinino, the majordomo of the Bagno della Conceptione Giuseppe Benincasa, Giovanni Battista Brunelli, scribe of Agì Manet Celibi, and the scribe of the Bey, [Giuano?] Giustiniano.
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 433, 1r-v
1671-11-13
Addressed to a Capuchin
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 42, 115r-v (database item 710).
Italian
Letter
652
Origin: Algiers
Destination: unknown
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF, 1672-08-01, Algiers
Algiers
Bizerte
Capuchins
Jesuits
Slave priests
Trinitarians
Tunis
Letter from Giovanni Le Vacher [Jean Le Vacher] to [PF]. According to the letter from 14 March 1671 he had to find a priest for Bizerte. He has found no-one more capable for the task than Marcello Costa, who is currently staying in Tunis. It is not necessary for him to stay there since they already is a Jesuit, a Capuchin, and some slave priests. It is up to PF to decide how much he should be paid for this work. He has heard that there are two priests in Tunis (Costantino Grillo and Michele Lipari), who wear clothes that they are not allowed to wear. Worse still, they also celebrate mass, which they are not allowed to do so. Le Vacher asks [PF] to do something about this case. He also reminds PF that Bartolomeo Da Serrano (a Spanish Trinitarian), is still staying in Algiers and does not want to accept the authority of the vicar apostolic, even though his superiors asked him to do so. PF decides to give Marcello Costa 30 scudi a year, for three years.
Date discussed: 1673-02-28
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 438, 465r, 466r-v, 467v
1672-08-01
Adressed to PF
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: ACTA 43, 44r-v.
See for the mentioned letter from PF: APF LETTERE 59, 12r (database item 606).
Original; signed
Italian
Latin
Letter
769
Origin: Algiers
Destination: Rome
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to [the PF secretary,Francesco Ravizza], 1674-05-31, Algiers.
Algiers
Barbary (unspecified or several locations)
Capuchins
Conversion
Slave priests
Slaves (Christian)
Trinitarians
Tunis
Salé
Letter from Gio' Le Vacher [Jean Le Vacher] to PF. From the letter that PF has sent to him, Le Vacher understood that PF has been very surprised that he already paid Marcello Costa (who is going to be a missionary in Bizerte), the 30 scudi that was promised by PF. Because of the financial difficulties of Costa, Le Vacher did not only have to give him the money, but also clothes. Le Vacher does not think that Costa did any wrong by staying in Tunis for some time, since there was a great need of priests. There are many poor Christian Catholics in this city, while in Bizerte, there are mostly heretics or scismatics. Now that the two Capuchins sent by PF have arrived in Tunis, he will make sure that Costa will leave for Biserte. Le Vacher asks PF to refund the money to the superior of the CM house in Rome. Now, he will inform PF about the state of Christianity in these regions. They try to cultivate the word of God in as good as manner as possible, and because of the sacraments, most people remain true to the Holy Faith. Moreover, several German, Dutch and Swedish heretics have converted. However, it is true that they lose more souls than they win. Young people have converted in their greatest numbers, mostly because the Mercedarian priests from Spain and Portugal have not been visiting for two years. In Algiers there are 25 slave priests (regulars as well as seculars), who are all in need of help, due to their poverty. In Tetouan there are two priests, there is one at Fes, and at the moment there are none at Sale. When he finds someone to send there, he will inform PF.
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SC Barbaria 1, 308r-309v
1674-05-31
[Adressed to Francesco Ravizza]
copy; signed
Italian
Letter
884
Origin: Algiers
Destination: Rome
Petition on behalf of Jean Le Vacher to PF, [1678]
Algiers
CM petitions
Capuchins
Petitions for faculties
Petition on behalf of Jean Le Vacher, vicar apostolic in Algiers to PF in which he asks: a) for the faculties of vicar general of Carthage; b) for the permission to administer the sacrament of confirmation; and c) for the faculties of provicar for the Capuchin Giuseppe Maria da Bologna, who he appointed to replace Grisostomo da Genova. During their meeting of 22 August 1678 the cardinals decide not to consent to the first two requests, but they do agree with the third.
Date discussed 1678-08-22
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 470, 167r, 168v
[1678]
Addressed to PF
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 48, 152r, 154r-v, issue 8 (database item 679).
Italian
Latin
Petition
663
Origin: [Aligers]
Destination: Rome
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to [PF], 1679-05-30, Algiers
Algiers
Capuchins
Conversion
Corsairs
Ransom
Slaves (Christian)
Slave priests
Trinitarians
Tunis
Letter from Jean Le Vacher. From the letters he received from PF, he understood that there was no reason to hope that the loss of souls in Barbaria could not be solved, due to not receiving the sacrament of confirmation. The Holy Spirit will have to work by itself, because the infidels will not allow spiritual assistance. PF suggested that it might be easier if there was a bishop in Algiers, however the bishop would risk his life. He thanks PF for the medals and crucifixes that he received. During the last few years, PF made it clear that the Trinitarian Fathers are subjected to his, or actually the apostolic authority. He has heard though, that the Trinitarians are trying to obtain independence from his authority, from Rome. Le Vacher deems it necessary that PF gives him a decree, declaring that the Trinitarians living in Algiers are subjected to the apostolic authority. He is suprised by the great number of missionaries that PF sends to Tunis, as there isn't a need for them; the slave priests have already complained about this. One Capuchin missionary named Cherubino [Cherubino Da Frascati], returned to Marseille because of tension between the slave priests and the apostolic missionaries. The slave priests need the alms from the Christians, for their daily lives and to also ransom themselves. PF also wrote to them about the Neapolitan priests that PF sent to Tunis, and the required faculties. Le Vacher however, told them that their services were not needed in the city. Some days ago he received the confirmation of the peace with France. This means that the corsais will not take any more French prisoners, as they had done for some years with the French and English; they also took an Catholic Irish, which he will try to assist. He ransomed a young French woman for 1,000 scudi, who had converted to Catholicism, and was about to lose her honor and faith. He sent her to Nimes in France. Two other women (one from France the other from Denmark) were also ransomed by him for 2,900 scudi and 80 lire. One Englishman converted to Catholicism and some other English and Dutch slaves are considering doing the same.
Date discussed: 1679-09-11
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 475, 119r-120r
1679-05-30
[Adressed to PF]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 49, 205r, 214r-218v, issue 18 (database item 681).
Original
Italian
Letter
802
Origin: Algiers
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF, 1681-05-29, Algiers
Algiers
Capuchins
Mercedarians
Slave priests
Slaves (Christian)
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF. The provicar of Tunis [Giuseppe Maria Da Bologna] gave Le Vacher some time ago a letter from PF dated 5 April 1680. In this letter PF asks him to inform them about the scandals committed by a Calabrian priest [Antonio Calandrino] and some other priests at the mission. He wrote directly to the provicar of Tunis asking for information about these cases, and the report he received in response, has been included in this letter. He also informs PF that at Tabarca and another place close to Capo Negro (which are both parts of the kingdom of Tunis), are inhabited by Genoese. In Tabarca there are only a few Augustinian priests, and at the other place, only a Trinitarian resides there, despite not receiving the permission of his superiors. Le Vacher does not know who grants these Augustinians and Trinitarian the authority to work as priests, and also whether or not they are subjected to the archbishop of Genoa; they claim that they are directly under the Holy See. He asks PF to clarify whether these two places are subjected to the vicariate of Tunis. He has also heard that the Mercedarian priests from Aragon will come in October to ransom slaves, and in April of the following year, will ransom those from the provinces of Castile and Andalusia. Le Vacher notes that due to his old age and his deteriorating health, the new priests will be of great assistance, as it is currently impossible for him to celebrate mass.
Date discussed: 1682-09-30
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SOCG 498, 178r-179r
1681-05-29
[Adressed to PF]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 51, 279r, 296v-299r (not yet in this database).
See for the report of the missionaries in Tunis: APF SOCG 498, f. 177r-v, 180r (database item 806).
Original: signed
Italian
Letter
807
Origin: Algiers
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to the PF Prefect [Paluzio Altieri], 1681-08-29, Algiers
Algiers
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Trinitarians
Tunis
Letter from Jean Le Vacher to PF. Some days ago he received a letter from a CM superior in Rome, from which Le Vacher understood that Altieri believed that he had extended his jurisdiction over Tripoli, where he had sent a censure of excommunication. PF asked him with a letter dated 30 April 1680, to remedy some problems with Greek slaves in Tripoli, who exercised ecclesiastical functions and administered the sacraments. He has done nothing else, and would not have done anything were it not for PF's request. Later the superior of the house in Rome wrote to him again, informing him that there had been a request to declare Gasparo Stella missionary apostolic in Algiers, and that PF had requested Le Vacher's opinion; so far, he has not yet received a reply. He does however, have a great need of help in the spiritual care of the Christians. His old age and continuous illness has deprived him of the consolation of saying mass, and impeded him to send PF reports on the mission regularly. Therefore, he asks PF to send the new missionary as soon as possible. A French merchant wrote to him some time ago from Tunis, that a group of Capuchins arrived in the city. He had problems allowing there presence, as he (nor Le Vacher) knew that they were coming. Now Le Vacher asks PF what he should do with these Capuchins. In the kingdom of Tunis there is also a place called Capo Negro, which has recently been inhabited by the Genoese. A Trinitarian from Messina fled from Sicily without permission and arrived in Tunis, where Le Vacher forced him to leave as well. He took refuge in Capo Negro, where he is exercising sacerdotal functions. He already asked the governor of this place twice, to make this priest return to Christendom. He asks PF to tell him whether he has jurisdiction over Capo Negro or not, so he is aware of what he is allowed to do.
Additional comments
Jean Le Vacher
APF SC Barbaria 1, 511r-512r
1681-08-29
Adressed to [PF]
For the FP letter that Le Vacher did not receive yet, see: APF LETTERE 70, 43r-v (database item 642).
original; signed
Italian
Letter
901
Origin: [Algiers]
Destination: [Rome]