FAMVIN is proud to present two newly translated articles of renowned scholar, Elisabeth Charpy, DC. These articles offer fresh insights into Louise’s relationship with Vincent as well as her relationship with first priests of the Congregation of the Mission. The image of Louise is much different from that of Louise as presented in many circles in the last century.

VINCENT AND LOUISE: ONE AND THE SAME PASSION, THE POOR”’ by Elisabeth Charpy, DC

“How could these two people, from such distinct family and social backgrounds and with such different temperaments, work together? What type of a relationship did they have? As we read the six hundred letters that they exchanged we see that their relationship evolved over the course of years. Their relationship passed through several phases before becoming one of true friendship. Every relationship evolves and is built up with the passing of the days and years. A passion for the poor can create differences with regard to the way to orient one’s activity … thus misunderstandings can arise.”

LOUISE DE MARILLAC AND THE PRIESTS OF THE MISSION by Elisabeth Charpy, DC

“Louise came to know the first companions of Vincent: M. Portail, a priest for thirty-six years from the Diocese of Arles and two other priests from the Diocese of Amiens, M. François de Coudray (forty years old) and Jean de la Salle (twenty-eight years old). At the end of 1626 Louise met Jean Bécu a priest for ten years from Somme and Antoine Lucas (twenty-six years), a seminarian. Louise was thirty-five years old.” “There was great trust between Vincent, the Missionaries and Louise. Each one recognized and respected the competency of the other.”

Reflections:

• Is it surprising that the relationship between Vincent and Louise took time to develop and mature?
• What can we learn about our relationships from this article?
• What can we learn about collaboration between people committed to serving the poor?