Letter from [a Discalced Carmelite] to PF [1649]

Letter from [a Discalced Carmelite] to PF [1649]

Madagascar

Discalced Carmelites

Babylon

Letter written by a Discalced Carmelite [possibly Pierre de Piviers] to PF about the situation in Madagascar. The letter notes that he has heard from merchants of the Compagnie, that secular missionaries have been sent to Madagascar the previous year, and that they do not want Discalced Carmelites to be on the island; they fear this might cause problems, as there is already concern that the people might loose their esteem for the secular priests, and that conflict might arise. Its also noted that people are not very happy with the arrival of the French. The letter also talks about the bishopric of Babylonia and Isfahan. The bishop (Father Bernard) said that he could not reside in his bishopric because he is ill, however he wants to help the mission by apppointing someone of his congregation as his successor; the bishop states he will support him and other missionaries financially and with faculties. The letter is not signed or dated. 

Additional comments

There is no signature and no date, but, based on the content, it may be inferred that the letter was probably written by a Discalced Carmelite in 1649, possibly Pierre de Piviers.

[A Discalced Carmelite]

APF SOCG 248, 135r-136r

[1649]

Addressed to PF

Italian

Letter

420

Origin: unknown

Destination: Rome