Source: Archives of the Sisters of St Joseph in Aubenas, photograph by Claude Fougeirol

On 1 November 1834, just over a month before his death, Father Terme gathered the sisters of Lalouvesc together. He announced his departure for a mission, along with his decision to join the Jesuits the following spring. Mother Thérèse, deeply moved, described to him how the small community would be left abandoned. To which Father Terme responded forcefully, placing his crucifix on the table: ‘Here, my daughter, is the One who will remain with you.’ An invitation to surrender to trust…