After the arrival of a new bishop for Saint-Brieuc in October 1819, Lamennais was appointed as Vicar General of that diocese. He was also appointed as Vicar of the Grand Almoner of France, in charge of charitable works throughout the nation. Lamennais threw himself tirelessly into the work required of him. In addition to his holding the office of Vicar General for Saint-Brieuc, the Bishop of Rennes, his canonical superior, appointed him simultaneously to that same office for his own diocese. In addition to these other duties, he took an active role in the founding of the Congregation of St. Peter, dedicated to the administration of the diocesan seminary and of parish missions, having to act as its Superior General for a brief period. One prelate, Bishop John Dubois, S.S., of New York, was so impressed by Lamennais' dedication and capability after receiving help from him, that he appointed him Vicar General for his own diocese in the United States.