Liturgical Calendar

Saint of the day

Saint Claude la Colombière (1641-1682)

Saint Claude la Colombière heard God's call early on to join religious life. He joined the Jesuits, and was educated in Lyons, France, at a Jesuit college. Claude had a special devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The Sacred Heart's divine love for humanity helped Claude combat the Jansenists, who were popular heretics of the time. He became Saint Margaret Mary Alacoque's spiritual director and confessor. Margaret also shared in his devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Claude was sent to England to act as confessor to the duchess of York. Through his preaching and his exemplary holy life, Claude converted many English Protestants to Catholicism. Rumors of plots against the king circulated throughout England, turning many people against Claude and his fellow Catholics. He was incarcerated, and the conditions in the prison caused his health to deteriorate. He was finally banished instead of being martyred, but soon died due to his poor health. Saint Claude la Colombière was canonized in 1992, and is the patron saint of toymakers and turners.

Reflection

Saint Claude la Colombière had a special devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and its divine love for humanity. Do you love your fellow brothers and sisters who share this world with you? Sometimes it can be difficult to love others, especially when they are living in a country that shows conflict and hatred towards the one that you live in. Ask for the Lord's help to love each one of your brothers and sisters, no matter how distant they may be.

Prayer

God, I know that you dwell in every person on earth, for you love each one of us. Help me to see your face in each person and to treat them as you. (Taken from “Good News Day by Day: Bible Reflections for Teens.”)