THE HEART GOES OUT FARTHER THAN THE ARMS CAN STRETCH

Bruno Eugene Guigues was consecrated as the first bishop of Bytown (later Ottawa) in July 1848.

It is upon descending from the altar, very dear son, brother and friend, where I have just offered the Holy Sacrifice in union with that which you offer yourself at this time  in your capacity as Bishop, in order to draw God’s blessings on you, your diocese and your ministry, that I write these few lines. I do not wish to put off until tomorrow the expression of all the sentiments which fill my heart, transported as I am in spirit to your side at this solemn moment when the Holy Spirit is working such great marvels in your soul. This beautiful day must be so devoted to you that I’m concerned only with you, either before God or with people

Letter to Bishop Bruno Guigues in Bytown, 25 July 1848, EO 1 n. 99

A month later, Eugene once again expressed his sentiments to his “friend, brother and son” on the day of the consecration:

My very dear friend, brother and son… I was united to the great event enacted at Bytown, the 25th or 30th. I was present to such an extent that you can say you were consecrated by four bishops, for the heart goes out farther than the arms can stretch; and it was with the Pontifical [ed. The missal used for the ceremonies of bishops] before my eyes that I called upon you all the blessings implored by the Church for the new elect.

Letter to Bp. Bruno Guigues, 25 August, 1848, EO 1, n. 101

REFLECTION

“The heart goes out farther than the arms can stretch.” (St. Eugene)