Letter from the Bishop of Funchal, Manuel Agostinho Barreto to Henrique José Reed da Silva

Letter from the Bishop of Funchal, Manuel Agostinho Barreto to Henrique José Reed da Silva

1887-11-14

The Bishop of Funchal congratulates Bishop da Silva on his entry into the diocese of Mylapore, which was reported in the newspapers. He wishes him well with his government and hopes he can continue the traditions of Portugal in the East.

He alludes to Bishop da Silva's purchase of a new residence and thanks him for praying for him at the tomb of Saint Francis Xavier.

The Bishop of Funchal claims to foresee major obstacles with the execution of the Concordat. He comments on the promptness with which the Holy See not only organized the hierarchy of India, but also structured the 21 dioceses.

Regarding local matters, he describes the difficulties facing his See due to the government's delays in appointing canons, with there not even being a vicar general nor a provisor. He also addresses the issue facing his seminary, for which he has called missionaries from the continent. He states that the end of sweet cane production has contributed to the sorry state of the economy, leading to poverty in families and emigration.

Digital scans donated from the Arquivo Histórico do Patriarcado de Lisboa.

UMass Lowell, Center for Lowell History

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