“Health and Peace” is already part of the daily lives of many people. Especially for us, devotees of Blessed Father Eustace, the expression marks an identity, a spirituality, and above all, a commitment. We have invoked Blessed Father Eustace as the “Missionary of Health and Peace.” In the expression “Health and Peace,” Father Eustace summarized his entire vocation. Despite the difficulties with the Portuguese language, “Health and Peace” translated all the desires of his heart. And even when there were no words, the “blessing hand” and the “firm and penetrating gaze” brought healing and peace to the spirit. It is not only about Health or Peace. Father Eustace's spirituality embraces both words together. But what does this mean? As Father Eustace himself wrote, “Health for the body, but peace for the soul.” In this sense, there is no health in the body without a peaceful soul, but also, there is no peace in the soul without the health of the body. Father Eustáquio understood the needs of those who hoped in the love that springs from the Sacred Hearts for the consolation of the soul and the healing of the body.

Health

Father Eustáquio was always by the side of the poor and suffering. In Romaria-MG, his first pastoral work in Brazil, he dedicated himself to learning about the medicinal plants of the region in order to care for his people amidst scarce resources. In Poá-SP, thousands of people sought his blessings, looking for cures for physical illnesses. Through the blessings of the humble Father Eustáquio, many regained their health. His unwavering trust in mercy allowed him to accomplish extraordinary things. Even today, graces obtained through the powerful intercession of Blessed Father Eustáquio are recorded daily. In the face of so many graces of physical healing, we invoke: Father Eustáquio, missionary of Health!

Peace

Father Eustace spent a large part of his day in the confessional. He visited the sick, welcoming with love and attention all those who awaited from him a blessing, a look, advice, a sign of God's love! His presence was hope and consolation. Wherever he went, he left a heart at peace. Father Eustace was also a missionary of reconciliation. Daily, he led his sheep back to the lap of the Good Shepherd. Father Eustace experienced in his life the peace that we only find in the Heart of Jesus. In his dedication, he enabled many to experience God's love. Even today, his spiritual legacy is a path to encounter God. Therefore, before so many hearts at peace, we invoke: Father Eustace, missionary of Peace!

Health and Peace is a commitment to those who suffer most. Health and Peace is the identity of those who carry in their hearts devotion to Father Eustace. Health and Peace is a spirituality of care and reconciliation. Health and Peace is a school of life, in the loving hearts of Jesus and Mary. Health and Peace is a vocation! Health and Peace is the beloved Father Eustace!

By Leandro Castro, philosopher and scholar of religion.