ST ANTHONY MARY CLARET OCTOBER 24, 2026
EARLY LIFE AND PRIESTHOOD
Born on December 23, 1807, in Sallent, Spain, the fifth of eleven children.
Worked in famiy business; textile manufacturer.
Ordained a priest on June 13, 1835
Became a traveling missionary, preaching throughout Sapin and the Canary Islands.
Concerned about sinners and encouraged frequent confession, devotion to the Eucharist, and love for the Blessed Mother.
In 1849, he founded the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, now known as the Claretians.
ARCHBISHOP OF CUBA
Appointed Archbishop of Santiago de Cuba
Worked to reform the clergy, establish schools, assist the poor, oppose slavery , and strengthen Christian family life. Great devotion to Blessed Virgin Mary.
Assassin attackd him with a knife and seriously wounded his face and neck, but he continued his work.
Forgave his attacker and sought mercy for him, reflecting the mercy of Christ, who forgave those who persecuted him.
CONFESSOR TO QUEEN ISABELLA II
Her personal confessor.
Continued with missionary work and stayed away from politics.
Political unrest forced the Queen into exile and Claret also left Spain.
Attended the First Vatical Council.
Died on Octobaer 24, 1870, at the Cistercian monastery of Fontfroide in France, at the age of 62.
Canonized by Pope Pius XII on May 7, 1950
LESSONS TO BE LEARNED FROM ST ANTHONY MARY CLARET
Holiness requires courage.
Forgiveness is stronger than revenge.
True greatness lies in humility
Love for Mary leads us to Jesus.
Salvation of souls is worth every sacrifice.
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