Death Comes for the Archbishop · Chapter
I: The Month of Mary explained
In May 1858, Father Vaillant lies ill in the garden of the Bishop's house in Santa Fe, recovering from a malarial fever contracted during a journey to settle diocesan boundaries with Mexican bishops.
What happens
In May 1858, Father Vaillant lies ill in the garden of the Bishop's house in Santa Fe, recovering from a malarial fever contracted during a journey to settle diocesan boundaries with Mexican bishops. As Bishop Latour tends the garden, Vaillant reflects on his devotion to the Virgin Mary during this month, his past sacrifices, and his desire to minister to neglected Catholic communities in the new territory.
Themes in this chapter
Faith and Doubt
Vaillant's deep personal devotion to Mary during his illness contrasts with the practical challenges of missionary work.
Mission and Sacrifice
Vaillant's willingness to leave his family and endure hardship to minister to isolated Catholics reflects the theme of sacrifice for a higher calling.
Landscape and Place
The garden in Santa Fe, with its tamarisks and lotus pond, symbolizes the intersection of natural beauty and human labor in the desert.
Characters to notice
- Father Joseph Vaillant
Recovering from malarial fever; reflects on his devotion to Mary during May and his missionary calling.
- Bishop Jean Marie Latour
Gardening and caring for Vaillant; recalls their shared history and plans for the summer.
- Jacinto
Accompanies Latour on the journey to rescue Vaillant from Arizona.
- Tranquilino
The gardener trained by Latour; pipes water into the garden pond.
- Fructosa
Mexican housekeeper instructed in cookery by Vaillant.
- Mother Philomène
Vaillant's sister; corresponded with him about his May devotions and made artificial flowers for his altar.
Key passages
“The Bishop’s work was sometimes assisted, often impeded, by external events.”
External circumstances both helped and hindered the Bishop's efforts.
Introduces the theme of external forces shaping the mission.
“This was the first spring that he and Father Latour had both been there at the same time, to enjoy the garden they had laid out soon after they first came to Santa Fe.”
It was the first spring both men were together in Santa Fe to appreciate the garden they had planted years earlier.
Highlights the rare moment of shared rest and reflection.
“The more I work with the Mexicans, the more I believe it was people like them our Saviour bore in mind when He said, Unless ye become as little children.”
Vaillant feels that the simple faith of the Mexican people embodies the childlike spirit Christ praised.
Reflects Vaillant's view of the spiritual purity of the poor.