Father Casimir Wyszynski

96 Z YGMUNT P ROCZEK , MIC, P H D samão and the petition of the hermits. For my part, I will not fail to assist you in any way, insofar as I am able, so that your project may be realized. I think it is advisable that you go and take up res- idence there to allow the residents to get to know you. I am cer- tain that theywill receive youwith love because theywish to join an institute that has already been approved.” Father Hieronimus of the Holy Trinity, a zealous and saintly priest, was the hermits’ superior in Balsamão. He not only at- tended to the welfare of the tertiaries’ spiritual life, but also to their finances and the outward appearance of the hermitage. Due to his efforts, the outdoor Stations of the Lord’s Passionwere built there, which still adorn the mountainside and even today attract pilgrims from the area. Father Casimir also received a letter fromthe leader of the com- munity inBalsamão, containing a heartfelt invitation: “Please come quickly for my heart and my embrace are open to receiving you.” The Servant of God and his companion, Father John of God, ar- rived in Balsamão on September 6, 1754, and were heartily wel- comed by the residents of the monastery and the dignitaries of Chacim. Shortly afterwards, Father Casimir, accompanied by Father Hieronimus, whom he had vested with the Marian habit, and Brother John of God, went to Bragança to meet the Bishop of Mi- randa who was visiting there. During their stay in Bragança Fa- ther Hieronimus died unexpectedly, having first made his profession of vows before Father Wyszyński, whom the Bishop now appointed as the superior of the hermitage in Balsamão. On October 1, 1754, the Servant of God Casimir began the re- ligious formation of the hermits in Balsamão. After sixmonths of preparation, on April 13, 1755, he vested five Portuguese, one of whomwas a cleric in minor orders, with the white Marian habit. More candidates applied. Father Wyszyński acquainted them with the Marian Rule, customs, and the person of the Founder. He joyfully informed his superior in Poland about the new candidates for the Order and about his plans of founding a