Saint Jean-Baptiste-Marie Vianney, known as “John” in English, “the Cure of Ars,” was a 19th century French priest known for sanctity, pastoral zeal, supernatural gifts and unique insights as a confessor.
Vianney was born in 1786 in Dardilly, France, near Lyons, to a devout Catholic farming family known for helping people in need. His education was disrupted at age three due to the French Revolution, which forced him to receive his sacraments secretly. The priests who braved the revolution’s Reign of Terror remained an inspiration to him throughout his life.
Eventually, Napoleon Bonaparte restored the Church’s position in France. After dodging Napoleon’s draft and despite many educational struggles, Vianney eventually advanced to the major seminary in Lyons and was ordained a priest in 1815.
In 1818, Vianney was assigned as curate—associate pastor—of a parish in Ars. The practice and understanding of the faith having been ravaged following the French Revolution, Vianney, combining compassion and sternness, urged his parishioners to confess their sins and reform their lives. He spent as many as 18 hours some days hearing confessions, and by 1855, as many as 20,000 faithful a year came to him for confession, encouragement or guidance—including bishops and founders of religious orders from afar. At the same time, Vianney also founded an orphanage and served the poor. France recognized his ministry with a French Legion of Honor.
When Vianney died in 1859, 6,000 people, including 300 priests, attended his funeral. Pope Pius XI canonized him in 1925. Revered as the patron saint of parish priests, Saint John Vianney’s feast is celebrated on August 4. Visit Facebook.com/DOYoungstown to watch Bishop Bonnar’s video about Saint John Vianney.
