"To this end , therefore, we enjoined that the public prayers should be offered up to God in this our City, and admonished the Roman Clergy and People, as well as others who reside in Rome, to contribute to the relief of Ireland."
"But letters of such sad import are still coming into our handsfrom Ireland, and such grevous reports [accounts - manuscript marginal note] are daily communcated to us of the aforesaid calamities..."
"On this account, after due consideration of so weighty a matter, and regard had to the opinion of some of our Venerable Brethren, the Cardinals of the Holy Roman Church, concerning this measure, we have resolved to address this letter to you, Venerable Brethren, in order that, together with you, we may succour the distress of the Irish Nation."
The letter then goes on to suggest three days of prayer and recommends charity through exhortations to the people.
Manuscript note by Bishop Wareing:
"We appoint the three Rogation days for the observance of the directions contained in the Encyclical letter of our Holy Fatherleaving each pastor to offer such prayers and at such time as he may judge most convenient". Dated May 6 1847