St. John Francis Regis was born on January 31, 1597, in Fontcouverte, France. He is remembered for his dedication to aiding the poor, the marginalized, and the uneducated. At five, he was deeply affected by his mother’s talk about eternal damnation, which influenced his spiritual journey. By 18, he joined the Society of Jesus, dedicating himself to missionary work despite health challenges. He received an excellent education at various Jesuit institutions, which prepared him well for his future endeavors in missionary work and spiritual guidance.
Focusing on remote areas of France often overlooked by others, St. Regis tirelessly preached, catechized, and ministered to those in need. He established shelters for women escaping prostitution and created social programs and schools to uplift impoverished youth. His approach was marked by compassion and a desire to improve the lives of those he served.
Although he longed to evangelize among Native Americans in Canada, he devoted his life to preaching in the challenging environments of France. He faced harsh winters and various hardships yet persisted in his missions, earning a reputation as a saint. In the last four years of his life, he concentrated on preaching and organizing social services for prisoners, the sick, and the poor. In autumn 1640, he prepared for death, continuing to speak of God’s love. On December 31, 1640, he died, uttering, "Into thy hands I commend my spirit." Canonized by Pope Clement XII in 1737, St. John Francis Regis’s life inspires others to express their faith through acts of compassion and selfless service.
St. John Francis Regis, obtain for us the grace to grow into devoted and faithful servants of Our Lord Jesus Christ.
Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love (Blessed and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)
No comments:
Post a Comment