To Mr Augusto Calabia, Milan

E VI, 3540

He replies to a letter from Calabia, a Jew who became a Salesian Cooperator by mistake

Turin, 4 December 1881

Most respectable Sir,

It is truly remarkable that a Catholic priest should propose a charitable association to an Israelite! However, the charity of the Lord knows no bounds, and excludes no one, regardless of age, condition or creed.

Among our 80,000 young people, we have had, and still have, some who are Israelites.

On the other hand, you tell me that you belong to the Mosaic religion, and we Catholics strictly follow the doctrine of Moses and all the books that that great Prophet left us. There is only a difference in the interpretation of these writings.

Furthermore, Mr Lattes from the city of Nice is Jewish, but one of our most fervent collaborators. In any case, I will continue to send you our Bulletin, and I believe that you will find nothing in it that offends your beliefs. Should this happen, or should you wish to stop receiving it, you need only let me know. May God bless you, keep you in good health, and please believe that I am with respect and esteem,

Yours sincerely,

your humble servant

Fr John Bosco