The Missionary

How does the idealistic young man from a wealthy Italian family find himself a missionary in the rough, lawless West of Early America? How does he persevere in his charity work and bringing the Gospel to men, while still maintaining his civility, dignity and composure? Samuel Mazzuchelli was something of an unknown Renaissance man, being a theologian, missionary, linguist, writer, social organiser and architect. But he was also a man of tremendous faith and conviction, whose audacious courage led him to many unique and exciting encounters. The priest discusses what we today would call a "culture clash", his immersion in a very difficult environment, almost all alone to face strange customs, unknown languages, unstable affiliations, marauders, and harsh climate.

Originally published more than a century ago, THE MISSIONARY is a powerful memoir that is now finally back in print. It is a most clearly written and entertaining diary, it gives incredible details about the process of building an entire religious organisation from the ground up.