If we believe in a cause, then we are prepared to put up with all sorts of frustrating difficulties to achieve it. This was the attitude of Eugene when faced with the ecclesiastical bureaucracy in Rome. Writing to Henri Tempier, he explained how the wheels had been set in motion for the approbation of the Rule, but it was going to be a slow and cumbersome process.
Here I am, back from my visit to Cardinal Pedicini. I found him busy reading the Rule book; the translation of my petition which I read to him had the effect only of adding to the good opinion that he was beginning to form on the question. The Cardinal is an upright man; he has promised to hurry matters as much as he can on his side and to put it through before others that he has on hand. But what a procedure to follow! When he will have read (the dossier) and made his report, he has to send it on to Cardinal Fesch who will pass it to Cardinal Haeffelin, he on to Cardinal Bertazzoli, Cardinal Bertazzoli to Cardinal Pallotta, Cardinal Pallotta to Cardinal Turiozzi, Cardinal Turiozzi to Cardinal Pacca, who will return it to Cardinal Pedicini. Cardinal Pedicini will speak of it to the Pope, then the Congregation will assemble and decide. What do you say to this business? They could take a shorter way but so it goes.
Now calculate fifteen days per head; until then I stay here. It is enough to make me fall into depression. I shall overlook nothing to push ahead but it will not be an easy matter…. I shall not fail to return after tomorrow to see my Cardinal to press him hard; but, Lord, when shall I get away from here?
Letter to Henri Tempier, 30 December 1825, EO VI n 214
“If you are going to sin, sin against God, not the bureaucracy. God will forgive you but the bureaucracy won’t.” Hyman Rickover
Eugene’s struggle with the bureaucracy is one that many, if not most of us, struggle with at one time or another in our lives. It may be the bureaucracy of our governments (many levels), in our schools, our workplaces, our communities and yes most certainly in our Churches. Eugene finds ways to cope with the ‘waiting’ by visiting the various churches in Rome, but it sounds like the bloom has warn off and his sole purpose there now is to wait, to defend his rules and his small congregation, to remind himself and the cardinals of the true value of their [Oblates] works and lives. Knowing in his heart that the Pope has already said he agrees with Eugene and that he really likes the whole idea of (hopefully soon to be) congregation of Oblates of Mary Immaculate and yet having to wait on the opinion and questions and struggles of others. Patience seems to be a key component.
When has it been thus in my life? Not with anything so grand perhaps as the founding of a congregation, but surely in small things in my own personal life there have been times such as what Eugene was experiencing. I think of the ongoing struggle (and joy) with people coming together as lay associates here in my small part of the world. There are some similarities for sure and how will I handle my part in all of this. Hopefully with love and patience, and some guidance and wisdom from God and yes Eugene too. My part is very small. As Frank said; “If we believe in a cause, then we are prepared to put up with all sorts of frustrating difficulties to achieve it.”
I love the quote on forgiveness and bureaucracy – so true. It inspired a smile and that’s a good way to start the day.