22. Scalabrini to Corrigan⁵¹

         Piacenza, April 13, 1889

Most Reverend Excellency:

I received several letters of Italians from New York containing bitter complaints and even threats of demonstrations over I don’t know what money that, as they say, the diocesan Curia holds in its possession and that should be destined to purchase a church. They also spoke about legal title of the same church in such a way that I understand very little.

            I would not have given any importance to this except that from a letter sent me by Father Felice I realized that something serious is in the air. In fact, he writes: “I am worried at the thought that some serious disagreement might arise between the Italian colony and our beloved Archbishop. You could not believe the grief I feel in thinking about the displeasure he might receive. Pray, Excellency, pray much and ask others to pray.”

            I believe these fears are exaggerated. Nevertheless, I entrust myself to you, Most esteemed Archbishop. Try, I beg you, to find a way in your known wisdom and charity to settle this matter so that the wishes of the Italians be satisfied. You who began with so much zeal and courage to help our poor immigrants please continue to be their father.

            I am well aware of the not so light difficulties you must encounter in governing a diocese where there are so many nationalities and where there must be so much competition, but God cannot fail to recompense you for the charity you have shown towards those of His children who are most in need.

            I hope that my Missionaries have in no way failed to deserve your benevolence. I wish, however, you would send me some information.

            Accept my affectionate regards. Recommend me to God. I remain of Your Most Reverend Excellency’s very devoted and

affectionate servant and confrere,

Gio. Battista, Bishop of Piacenza