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 [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
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, 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 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 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]
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 [the PF secretary, Federico Baldeschi], 1671-08-15, Palermo
Capuchins
Tunis
Petitions for missionary patents
Slaves (Christian)
Seravezza case
Petitions for faculties
Letter of Luigi Da Palermo, who writes that he is staying in Palermo to help in the ransoming of slaves. He is planning to return to Tunis afterwards. He received a letter from Gio' Leuascier [Jean Le Vacher] containing three copies of letters from CM: a) one about the confirmation of Luigi Da Palermo's faculties for the mission of Tunis; b) the second about Antonio da Saraveza [Antonio Di Seravezza], who pretends to be an apostolic missionary in Tunis; and c) the third about the French consul of Tunis, with whom Jean Le Vacher has a conflict. Luigi Da Palermo also writes that there are only two priests in Tunis, Antonio Di Seravezza and Elzeario Da Marseglia. The latter is French and therefore imprisoned because there is a ongoing war with France; hence this is why he asks for the permission to return to Tunis with four new priests. Its noted that he will be staying in Palermo until the answer arrives.
Date discussed: 1671-08-06
Additional comments
APF SOCG 430, 221r-v, 280r
1671-08-15
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.
Copy; signed
Italian
Letter
718
Origin: Palermo
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 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
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 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 PF to [Jean Le Vacher], 1666-03-27, [Rome]
Algiers
Capuchins
Petitions for faculties
Slaves (Christian)
Slave priests
Letter from PF to the vicar of Algiers [Jean Le Vacher?]. F' Gio' B'a da S. Malò [François Jean Baptiste de San Malò?] a Capuchin priest who was made a slave when returning to France (he has since been returned to Algiers with another Frenchman), informed PF about the great need for priests in Algiers; he himself asked for the faculties to work as a priest. PF asks [Le Vacher] to grant him the required faculties, as long as he does not have any objections.
Additional comments
PF
APF Lettere 51, 17v
1666-03-27
Adressed to [Jean Le Vacher]
copy; unsigned
Italian
Letter
847
Origin: [Rome]
Destination: [Tunis]
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
Letter from PF to Jean Le Vacher, 1670-11-10, Rome
Tunis
Capuchins
Ransom
Copy of a letter from PF to Jean Le Vacher, stating that the cardinals have approved his appointment of Father Luigi Da Palermo (a Capuchin), as pro-vicar of Tunis; its also noted that they admire the fact that he had to spend a considerable amount of money to ransom Da Palermo. The letter dated 10 November 1670.
Additional comments
There is also another copy of this letter with the title: "Copia della lettera della Sacra Co’greg’ne de Propag’a/ a D. Giò le Vaschier Vicario Apost’l’co in Algeri." The one found in Lettere ends in "il Sig’re la felici," while the last line from the one in SC Barbaria is "il sig're la prosperi," SC Barbaria, vol. 1, 231r.
PF
APF LETTERE 55, f. 74r
1670-11-10
Addressed to Jean Le Vacher
Italian
Letter
600
Origin: Rome
Destination: [Tunis]
Letter from PF to Jean Le Vacher, 1671-08-03
Algiers
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Tunis
Ransom
Letter from PF to Gio' Levacher [Jean Le Vacher], vicar apostolic of Algiers. PF understands that Le Vacher has always cared for the Christians who stay in the areas assigned to him. It is also well known to PF that Le Vacher has always tried to increase the esteem that PF has for him. Now they have come to understand that Le Vacher has ransomed Luigi Da Palermo (a Capuchin priest), at his own expense. It is believed that Da Palermo is very gifted, and he has not only been recommended by PF, but has also been assigned the cure of the slaves in Tunis. PF remind Le Vacher that he has to pay attention to the behavior of Da Palermo.
Additional comments
PF
APF Lettere 57, 88r
1671-08-03
Adressed to Jean Le Vacher
This is probably an answer to a letter by Jean Le Vacher, see: APF SOCG 429, 278r-279v (database item 716).
copy; unsigned
Italian
Letter
863
Origin: [Rome]
Destination: Algiers
Letter from PF to Jean Le Vacher, 1671-12-14, [Rome]
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Tunis
Letter from PF to Vicario Leuacher [Jean Le Vacher]. Following the departure of Luigi Da Palermon, the Christian slaves in Tunis have been left without anyone authorised to absolve specific cases. Therefore PF decided to send Marcello Costa to the mission, with the faculties of missionary.
Additional comments
PF
APF Lettere 57, 139r
1671-12-14
Adressed to Jean Le Vacher
copy; unsigned
Italian
Letter
867
Origin: [Rome]
Destination: [Algiers]
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]
Letter from PF to Luigi Da Palermo, 1671-05-15, [Rome]
Capuchins
Ransom
Slaves (Christian)
Trinitarians
Tripoli
Letter from PF to Luigi Da Palermo, missionary in Tripoli. In Tripoli PF has founded a mission of Reformed Friar Minors to help the Christian slaves. PF has written a letter to the Trinitarian Fathers to ask if they could try to ransom Vincenzo Piccinini. Da Palermo should either be granted more revenues (or should lower his expenditure), in order to have money to spend on ransoming slaves.
Additional comments
PF
APF Lettere 57, 51r
1671-05-15
Adressed to Luigi Da Palermo
For the mentioned letter to the Trinitarian Fathers, see: APF Lettere 57, 50v-51r (database item 858).
copy; unsigned
Italian
Letter
859
Origin: [Rome]
Destination: Tripoli
Letter from Philippe-Emmanuel de Gondi to Bernardino Spada [1627]
Galleys
Capuchins
France (missions in)
Galleys
The general of the triremes (Philippe-Emmanuel de Gondi) asks Cardinal Spada to obtain a brief from the pope ordering the superior of the Capuchins of Provence to send thirteen priests "to instruct, hear confessions and teach the catechism to the captains, soldiers and sailors of said triremes," in Tollon as well as in other places where the triremes would go. The Fathers have been doing their mission on the triremes for one or two years already and they say they cannot continue to do so without a brief. The PF notes on f. 140v indicate that Ingoli was going to discuss the matter with Barberini, and that there was a negative response to the request, given in June 1627.
Date discussed 1627-02-20 and 1627-06-08
Additional comments
a) Cardinal Spada was leaving the French nunciature that year, and was therefore probably somewhere in France, possibly Paris, at the beginning of 1672.
b) Petition discussed twice by PF.
Philippe-Emmanuel de Gondi
APF SOCG 129, 140r-141r
[1627]
Addressed to Bernardino Spada
See for the pope's rejection of the request: APF ACTA 4, 208, 237 (database item 45)
For the approval: APF ACTA 17, 164 (not in this database).
See also similar request in APF SOCG 387, 142r, 148v (database item 28).
Original; undated; no signature; French on 140r (followed by Italian translation on 141r); verso of folio 140 contains PF notes in Latin and Italian; 141v has following note: "Avignon".
French
Italian
Latin
Letter
6
Origin: [France]
Destination: [France]
Letter from Pierre de Piviers to PF the vice-prefect, Luigi Capponi, 1646-12-17, Orléans
Madagascar
Capuchins
Discalced Carmelites
Letter from the Capuchin Pierre de Piviers to Cardinal Capponi requesting a salvoconduct for a number of Capuchin missionaries. At the end of Piviers' letter there is a note suggesting to send a mission to Madagascar, as there are rich and affluent Parisians doing business, and going there regularly. He believes the mission would be fruitful, as the natives have no religion and are docile by nature. PF note at the end indicates that the island had already been assigned to the Discalced Carmelite order, and that the general of the order should be contacted about the matter. The latin translation of this document can be found on f. 125r.
Date discussed 1647-06-17
Additional comments
Pierre de Piviers had also written to PF about Madagascar in 1643, suggesting that a mission of Normand Capuchins be sent there, since Normand merchants went to that isle most frequently. His letter was read in a PF meeting, but no response was sent. PF meeting took place on 1 June 1643, with four cardinals present: St. Onofrius, Pamphylius, Pallottus, and Ginettus (in PF ACTA 15, f. 338v, no. 11. 299, not in this database).
Pierre de Piviers
APF SOCG 145, 125r, 126r, 127v
1646-12-17
Addressed to Luigi Capponi
For the PF general meeting discussing this letter, see: APF ACTA 17, 441r-v, issue 28 (database item 139).
Original (in French) and contemp. translation (into Latin); French original signed; PF notes in Latin and Italian
French
Latin
Italian
Letter
144
Origin: Orléans
Destination: Rome
Letter from the nuncio to France, Celio Piccolomini, to the PF prefect [Antonio Barberini jr.], 1661-05-06, Paris
Madagascar
Capuchins
Letter from the nuncio to France, Celio Piccolomini to PF, in which he states that since PF has agreed to the request sent by Marshal de La Meilleraye to appoint a bishop for Madagascar on 14 June 1660, Marshal has now proposed three candidates, all of them Capuchin missionaries. Whereas in his former letter Marshal had promised to provide some financial support, this time he made no mention of it; the nuncio promises to talk to him about this aspect. On f. 21r the names of the three Capuchins are mentioned: "Josephus de Mortais, Valerianus de Montmiral, Hubertus de Poictiers Capucinus." PF minutes on f. 22v indicate that PF secretary, Mario Alberizzi, does not think its legitimate to appoint a Capuchin bishop since CM priests had always served that mission, and such a decision would discourage them. PF decides that something else should be proposed.
Date discussed 1661-12-07
Additional comments
Celio Piccolomini
APF SOCG 252, 20r, 21r, 22v
1661-05-06
Addressed to [Antonio Barberini jr]
For the earlier requests concerning this topic see: APF SOCG 252, 13r-13v (database item 269), APF SOCG 252, 14r-v, 19v (database item 270) and APF SOCG 252, 12r-13v (database item 268).
Original, signed and dated
Italian
Letter
271
Origin: Paris
Destination: [Rome]
Letter from the PF secretary [Edoardo Cibo] to Jean Le Vacher, 1683-04-08, Rome
Algiers
Capuchins
Slave priests
Letter from PF secretary [Edoardo Cibo] to Jean Le Vacher, vicar apostolic in Algiers. The secretary writes that Capuchin Father Giuseppe da Bologna has written to him, complaining that as there are so many slave priests, he has been left with only two bagnos to serve (one of which might go to another priest). Da Bologna wrote that the potential loss could result in a drop in income for him, and that sooner or later he will not be able to pay the rent of his house, which increased from 36 to 45 pezze da otto. Before referring this problem to the cardinals, the secretary wants to know from Jean Le Vacher the state of the mission, and the results of the Capuchin presence in the city. He also wants to know if it is possible to find a house with a lower rent. The letter dated 8 April 1683.
Additional comments
[Edoardo Cibo]
APF LETTERE 72, 116v-117r
1683-04-08
Addressed to Jean Le Vacher
Italian
Letter
646
Origin: Rome
Destination: [Algiers]
Letter from the PF secretary [Federico Baldeschi] to the superior of CM, 1670-11-23, Rome
Tunis
Capuchins
Copy of a letter from the secretary of PF to the superior of CM. They ask that he refer the name of the Capuchin that Jean Le Vacher elected as vice-prefect for the Tunis mission [Luigi Da Palermo], because it was not in the report given to PF. The letter dated 12 November 1670.
Additional comments
[Federico Baldeschi]
APF LETTERE 56, 145r
1670-11-23
Addressed to the superior of CM
Italian
Letter
603
Origin: Rome
Destination: Paris
Letter from the PF secretary [Francesco Ravizza] to Jean Le Vacher, 1674-12-18, Rome
Tunis
Capuchins
Slaves (Christian)
Copy of a letter from the secretary of PF to Jean Le Vacher, asking for information about Father Carlo di Ancona, sent as missionary to assist the slaves in Tunis. Eight slaves have made several complaints about him, and PF wants to know whether these are justified. The letter dated 18 December 1674.
Additional comments
[Francesco Ravizza]
APF LETTERE 63, 119r
1674-12-18
Addressed to Jean Le Vacher
Italian
Letter
624
Origin: Rome
Destination: [Algiers]
Letter from Vicenzo Da Frascati to [PF Secretary, Edoardo Cibo], 1679-09-16, Tunis
Capuchins
Conversion
Mercedarians
Ransom
Slaves (Christian)
Slave priests
Tunis
Letter from Vincenzo Da Frascati to PF. Since he returned to Rome, he wants to give PF some information on the state of the mission. They tried to keep all the Catholics in the church and convert others, however the Turks could not be converted. There were a few heretics that converted themselves to Catholicism, and also a few Christians that became Turks. Francesco Gatta (one of the missionaries), started a few annual spiritual events which turned out to be very fruitful. The reputation of the Christians is damaged by the scandalous behavior of the Christians, especially by the priest's. Da Frascati has been in Tunis for three years, in which there have been five slave priests who were all involved in a controversy. The first one was a Calabrese priest, he lost the trust of his superiors and started walking around in public with golden rings, and was spreading discord. At some point he ransomed himself and left for Christendom. The second one was a Spanish Mercedarian priest, he was not that bad, however he got killed at home by a woman with a gun. In this action, another Sardinian priest got wounded whilst trying to defend the Spanish priest. He is still at the mission and is behaving well. The fourth is a priest of the enemy, who was playing cards with a Christian slave. The priest won 80 piastre after which the slave was beaten with a cane. The last priest had also played cards, with a Catholic Greek. This caused a judicial case in which the vicar and the Bey of Tunis were also involved. Eventually the slave became a slave of the Bascia, and the priest returned to Christianity.
Date discussed: 1680-04-08
Additional comments
Vincenzo Da Frascati
APF SOCG 478, 259r-v
1679-09-16
[Adressed to PF]
For the minutes of the PF meeting where this matter was discussed, see: APF ACTA 50 98r, 112v-113v (database item 683).
Original; signed
Italian
Letter
803
Origin: Tunis
Destination: [Rome]