The Fox of France

Chapter 497: The Empire of Charity

In the luxurious salon of the "Caesar" battleship, formerly the "Caesar" Hotel, Joseph and Pope Pius VII held a cordial and friendly meeting, discussing issues concerning the spiritual and cultural development of Ireland. Joseph proposed to the Pope that the Holy See should focus on healthcare and education as its primary areas of effort, as this would not only ensure revenue but also maintain the church's image.

Pope Pius VII agreed with Joseph’s suggestion and expressed his gratitude. However, he also expressed some concern about the Republic of Ireland's decision not to establish a state religion, opting instead to adopt France's policy of "religious freedom."

"I'm not saying that the French policy is bad, but there is a difference between Ireland and France," the Pope said. "France has always been the core region of Catholicism. The French have been believers of the true faith for generations and are most favored by God. Even without a state religion, the French people will continue to adhere to the correct faith. But Ireland is different. These days, I've talked with Irish clergy and have noticed many issues because of the persecution and suppression by those dreadful heretics, which has led to misunderstandings about our doctrines. Though they remain loyal to the true faith, the poison of heresy has seeped in over the years. How can we adopt a policy of religious freedom now?"

"Your Holiness," Joseph said, "which significant heresies exist in Europe today besides our true Catholic Church? Only the Eastern Orthodox Church to the east, and those calling themselves Protestants. These heretics, cunning as they are, skilled at leading astray the lambs of God, but if priests loyal to the true faith preach the real Gospel, with the might of God, could they not outshine these heresies?"

Joseph paused, then continued, "Relying on the might of God, the true Catholic Church has an unmatched ability to preach. Your Holiness, consider how many seminaries we have compared to these heretics. Their theological theories don’t even come close to ours. And think about how many priests we train each year compared to them. So, in terms of preaching capabilities, plus our support, the true Catholic Church, in its charitable endeavors, can achieve far more than these heretics.

Joseph understood what the Pope implied – the old man was worried about the cost. Clearly, even a Pope not accustomed to modern life didn’t understand that charity could be the most profitable venture.

Indeed, what church activity couldn’t be labeled charitable? Even building luxurious cathedrals filled with lavish items could be seen as showcasing devotion and pleasing God – wasn’t that a public good, a charity? Even if the money was simply stored in a bank, using

just a small portion of the interest for charitable deeds each year, that too was sustainable charity. Many future charitable organizations would use only three to four percent of their total assets for charity each year – nearly a standard practice.

Clearly, Joseph's words had opened a new door for Pope Pius VII, showing him a vista he had never seen before.

"Ah, President Bonaparte, this is truly worth studying," Pope Pius VII said, smiling so broadly his eyes narrowed into slits, his dark yellow eyes appearing to transform as well.

Two days later, the "Caesar" battleship returned to Le Havre. At Joseph's invitation, Pope Pius VII and Joseph took a train to Paris for a visit, following a temporary plan made aboard the ship to discuss with Napoleon and Minister Lucien how to establish a "Charitable Empire."@@@@