The Œcumenical Council at Rome.

Cromwell Argus, Volume I, Issue 22, 13 April 1870, Page 3

The Œcumenical Council at Rome.

At the sitting on January 6, the ceremony of the Profession of Faith was first gone through by the Pope, who made it in his own name. It was then read by Father Fabriano in the name of the other Fathers, each of wljom took the oath in liis own language on the Gospel. The Pope then bestowed his benediction. The Bishop of Panama is dead. Four Fathers have died since the opening of the (Ecumenical Council. At the end of the Council a grand funeral service will be given in memory of those who died during its sitting, and the Pope will erect a cenotaph to their memory. In the congregation of the Council held on the 14th of Januuary, the Senior Legate complained that the Fathers did not sufficiently observe the rule of secrecy, and that their speeches in the Council were too long. More than 300 of the Fathers of the Council have at last refused to sign the petition which declares the definition of the dogma of the Pope’s Personal Infallibility opportune. Several others have postponed their replies. Those Fathers who are opposed to the definition have resolved to present a counterpetition, in case the question should be referred to the Council. It is believed that the project will not obtain the moral unanimity required by the Pope. The Roman correspondent of the Berlin Post writes :—“ The German Bishops have resolved to present an address to the Pope, in which they protest against the xegulations imposed upon the Council, and claim a right to make independent motions. They consider it intolerable that two commissions should hare the right to examine, revise, change, and mutilate as they please every wish and proposal before it can be discussed.” The Council has attracted to Rome not only prelates, but ladies from all countries. These last are the most persevering when they can reach the Pope. At a public audience, in came an American lady. She got an armful of rosaries blessed. “ Is that all ?” said the chief of Catholicity, patiently. “ Your photograph, holy father, I beg,” Here it is. “ What more do you want V’ “ Your name at the foot of the carte.” Pious TX. hesitated. He did not like it; but the spirit of sacrifice came to his aid : he resigned himself, and signed the card. “ Have you any other favor to ask 1” “ Ploly father, give me the pen with which you wrote your autograph.” This time the excellent old man lost all patience. “ Here, madam, take the penholder, and—take the inkstand also." The American lady wrapped up all in an old newspaper, opened her travelling bag, put in the spoil, and departed with a low curtsey.