The letter written by Fr Julian to his friend, William Archer, on 20 June 1878, tells the reader much about the place of science in the life of this priest.
He loves all things scientific but he is always a priest first, attending to his many ecclesiastical duties before spending time pursuing scientific interests – writing papers, visiting museums or taking notes while rambling. At this time Fr Julian is giving a mission at Morpeth, saying Mass, preaching to adults and children, hearing confessions and leading the evening service each day.
This letter also gives us an idea of the scope of Fr Julian’s scientific writings. To see them listed in his own words and then to read the endnotes compiled by Sr Anne Player seems to prove what a remarkable man Fr Julian was for his times. He is passionate about his vocation and finds in science an interest that enhances his life as a priest.
This month we present a seventeenth letter, written on 20 June 1878: