Feb. 15, 1892 – To General Superior Sr. M. Edward, House of Providence, Kingston ON from Sr. M. Leonard, Holyoke MA

J.M.J.
House of Providence, Holyoke
Feb. 15, 1892
Rev. Mother M. Edward
Dear. Rev. Mother,

Last Saturday evening, I heard the joyful news, of the decision of Rome relative to our Community difficulty. Yet I feel that Sister M of Providence and her companion, Sr. M. Stanislaus, and their Adviser Rev. Dr. Bevin are determined to continue the struggle for separation. I am not positive that this is certain, but judging from their manner of speaking and acting, I feel that I am in duty obliged to make known my views on the subject. I think they intend to get some of the priests to interest themselves in the affair, and by some means, to bring those gentlemen to their own way of thinking, and through them, to induce the Bishop to demand a separation or else to oblige the sisters to leave his diocese. I judge this to be the case, on account of hints, that they are occasionally giving. Of course Srs M of Pro and Sr M. Stanislaus are the only ones, who are heard to speak on the subject. I feel confident that they have at least one priest, who is ready and willing to enter into their views (Rev. F. Bevin). I don’t know how much influence he has with the Bishop, but I imagine he must have considerable, being a member of the Bishops Council. I heard that Sr. M. Stanislaus said last week “The only thing the Bishop will submit to is separation.” The Bishop is going to Rome in May; and about July it will be all settled.

So I fear, that although Rome has decided, our trouble is not yet at an end. I consider it necessary to tell you what I think about the matter, although there may be but little fear of any serious difficulty. As some think I am inclined to look on the dark side.

Hoping that you are quite well. I am dear Rev. Mother
Yours very sincerely
Sr. Mary Leonard
Source: 105.6-C, Mother Mary Edward General Superior sous-fonds, Correspondence series, Letter February 15, 1892, Archives, Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul.
Catherine McKinley’s Letters

This letter is part of a large database of correspondence written by and to Catherine McKinley, who is considered one of the founders of the Sisters of Providence of St. Vincent de Paul. As a Sister of Providence she was known by her religious name Mother Mary Edward.

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