We realise that this is confirmed by your letter in which you indicate that you have undertaken the building of an elegant church, which is already almost complete and is to be dedicated very shortly according Catholic rite, and that not only Catholics but even Protestants themselves have contributed to the costs of this building. Praise and thanksgiving be to the Lord who forgets not to show pity, nor in anger constrains his mercies and raises Us up into the most joyous hope that in your country faith and piety will daily make more fortunate advances.

Yes, and would that We were able to add to your enthusiasm for the progress of such an achievement some contribution commensurate with our own wishes: but, since the present limitations of our own resources forbid a bigger donation we are doing what we can, and as a token of our (good) will and congratulations we send a silver-gilt chalice to be dedicated to be used in the Sacrifice in the new church, consoling ourselves with the hope, confirmed by yourself, that to some extent our gift may prove to have considerable influence in achieving veneration for our most holy religion and our sacred rites among those not of our faith [lit: the heterodox] to say nothing of those linked to Us by the bond of true faith and charity, and in filling souls with sentiments of piety.

But we congratulate You, Beloved Son, on your zeal and your devout generosity, anticipating ‚ we hope ‚ that we shall congratulate you face to face at no distant date here (in Rome) to which we think the very love of your College calls you back. Meanwhile, we commend to God You and all those who with you have contributed from their own resources to your undertaking, and with the word of his grace** we most lovingly impart to You the Apostolic Blessing.

Given at Rome at St Peter's on the 20th September in the Year 1828, the 5th Year of our Pontificate.

G. Gasparri, Secretary of our most Holy Father for Latin correspondence

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