To Mrs Angela Oddenino

E II, 37

He tells her of her son’s decision to suspend his ecclesiastical studies in order to pursue a profession

Turin, 10 May 1849

Dear Madam,

Here is your Giuseppe: he is going home willing to work, but he keeps saying that he no longer feels called to the clerical state. Therefore, I believe it is pointless to urge him to keep the clerical habit; rather, I would suggest supporting him in pursuing the profession which seems more suitable for his circumstances.

I told your son everything a friend can say to a friend; you too must be patient; if the Lord did not want to grant your holy wish to have a son who is a priest, I hope he will console you with a son who is a good Christian.

Let us commend this whole matter to God, and while we do what we can, we pray that God’s will be done in everything.

If I can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact me. You will find me as truly I say I am

your most humble priest

Fr John Bosco