In 1943, a sudden high fever interrupted Father Eustáquio's intense apostolate for a week. After a period of convalescence, he died on August 30th, a victim of spotted fever, the tick-borne disease.

While the priest was hospitalized for treatment of his illness, he wrote a few words for the faithful who were praying for his recovery. Read them below:

“Dear parishioners and people of Belo Horizonte, you will not see me again, but my love for you will not die: I will continue to commend you to God, and you, do not forget me. Remember the hardship I endured for your love and do not forget the lessons I gave you. Live in the company of Jesus and his Blessed Mother and turn to Saint Joseph in all your needs.”

This prayer is found on the prayer card for the 7th-day Mass for Father Eustáquio, which was distributed to the devotees who attended the celebration held at the Church of Saint Joseph in downtown Belo Horizonte.

See the image below: