To the newly-appointed Rector of the house at La Navarre (France), Fr Pietro Perrot

EVI, 2800

Encouragement to take on the role as Rector of the St Joseph Orphanage, La Navarre.

*Turin [?], 2 July 1878

My dear Fr Perrot,

I know that you are young, and therefore still need to study and practise under a skilled teacher. But what of it? St Paul was called to preach the Gospel, and although he was young, he immediately set about preaching the kingdom of God to the Jews and Gentiles.

Go, therefore, in the name of the Lord; go not as a superior, but as a friend, brother and father. Your commandment shall be charity, which strives to do good to all and harm to none.

Read, meditate on and practise our rules. May this be for you and for yours.

May God bless you and with you bless all those who will go with you to Navarre, and pray for me, for I shall always be with you in J.C.

Your most affectionate friend

Fr John Bosco