The Vicariate, 1841-1847
95
organized Catechism classes in German, French, English, and Spanish.6' In summarizing his extended tour, Odin declared that everywhere the faithful had received him with enthusiasm. Large crowds had come from far and near to hear him preach, to confess their sins, and to receive · Holy Communion in the Lavaca, the Brazos, the Colorado and the San Antonio districts. "I have -had the consolation of seeing Cath- olics and Protestants come to receive instruction," he exultantly told Blanc. "All this convinces me that the harvest could be most abundant if the number of priests were greater. Many Protestants, both children and adults, have received the waters of Baptism and sixty persons were Confirmed." "Thanks be to God!" the good Vicar exclaimed. "I see a great change ... if Providence permits the increase of laborers in His vineyard, I believe that we will soon be able to organize a good number of small congregations." He was particularly proud to report that 2,774 had gone to confession and 2,507 had received Communion. 67 Tlte founding of Castroville. While in San Antonio the Vicar had the good fortune of witnessing the founding of Castroville. After saying Mass and preaching a sermon on September r, Odin, with many others, watched a caravan of thirty-four families and twelve Mexicans start in eleven carts for the site where Mr. Castro planned to establish formally his first settlement. The location selected was on the banks of the Medina, twenty-four miles from San Antonio. Odin described the site as "charming." Nine days later the Vicar went to the new settlement, which had been named after the founder, to lay the cornerstone of the church which was to be erected. The ceremony took place on September 12. Almost all the settlers-about sixty-six families in all-were present. Odin, assisted by Oge, officiated. Among those present were Louis Hesse, Henri Castro, and Doctor George Cupples. 61 After the laying of the cornerstone, Odin returned to San Antonio with Castro and Oge. On September 17 Castro returned with twenty more colonists, among them some women and children. The prospects for the rapid growth of Cas- troville were bright, Odin explained. The number of settlers was ex- pected to increase considerably during the winter. The majority of the colonists were from North-Central Europe. Odin was equally impressed with the extensive plans for new German 66 0din, Diary, entries for July, 1844. 67 0din to Blanc, December 1 o, 1844, C. A. T. 61 0d~n, Diary, entries for September 1, 10, 12, 13, 17, 1844, C. A. T._
Powered by FlippingBook