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Charles de Foucauld: Universal Brother: Home

A Gumberg Library Research Guide

Foucauld quote

"Our hearts, like that of the Church, like that of Jesus, must embrace all humanity."

Charles de Foucauld

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Photo of Charles de Foucauld

This research guide will connect you to many different types of resources on St. Charles de Foucauld (1858-1916), a cavalry officer turned explorer and linguist, who became a monk and priest, who lived a hermit's life in the Algerian desert, and who was martyred for his faith. He is known around the world by the title "Universal Brother" and continues to this day to be an important influence in Muslim-Christian religious dialogue. He was canonized on May 15, 2022 by Pope Francis.

Primary Sources

videos?

A lecture by Dr. Bonnie Thurston at Duquesne University, March 31, 2022


Universal Brother: The Life and Legacy of Charles de Foucauld (Festival of Friendship, 2020)


"Prayer of Abandonment" by St. Charles de Foucauld

(In French, set to music)

Translation:

Father, 
I abandon myself into your hands; 
do with me what you will. 
Whatever you may do, I thank you: 
I am ready for all, I accept all.

Let only your will be done in me, 
and in all your creatures -
I wish no more than this, O Lord.

Into your hands I commend my soul: 
I offer it to you with all the love of my heart, 
for I love you, Lord, and so need to give myself, 
to surrender myself into your hands without reserve, 
and with boundless confidence, 
for you are my Father.

Source


Need Help?

If at any time you need help with using Gumberg Library resources, please contact Ted Bergfelt, Humanities Librarian, via email or by phone at 412-396-5351, 8:30 am-4:30 pm ET, Monday-Friday. If he is not available, Ask Gumberg