Feast Day: August 19
Confessor
Saint John Eudes was born on November 14, 1601, in Ri, Normandy, France. From a young age, he displayed great devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, making a vow of chastity at the age of twelve and dedicating his life to God. He entered the Congregation of the Oratory of France, founded by Cardinal de Bérulle, and was ordained a priest in 1625.
Apostolic Zeal and Missionary Work
As a priest, John Eudes distinguished himself by his tireless missionary preaching throughout France, especially in Normandy. He was known for his deep compassion, fiery sermons, and tender devotion to Christ and His Mother. During outbreaks of the plague, he fearlessly ministered to the sick and dying, often at great personal risk.
Founder of Religious Congregations
Saint John Eudes recognized the spiritual needs of his time and sought to renew Christian life through priestly formation and the spread of devotion to the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary.
- In 1641, he founded the Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Refuge, to shelter and rehabilitate women and girls in need of repentance and protection.
- In 1643, he established the Congregation of Jesus and Mary (the Eudists), dedicated to the formation of priests and the preaching of parish missions.
Devotion to the Sacred Hearts
He is often called the Apostle of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Before the widespread revelations of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, John Eudes promoted devotion to the Heart of Jesus, uniting it with that of Mary. He composed liturgical offices in their honor and was instrumental in spreading these devotions throughout France.
Writings
Among his works are The Admirable Heart of the Most Holy Mother of God and The Kingdom of Jesus. His writings reveal profound theological insight, ardent love for God, and practical guidance for spiritual renewal.
Death and Canonization
Saint John Eudes died on August 19, 1680, in Caen, France, after a life of preaching, writing, and founding communities to renew the Church. He was beatified by Pope Pius X in 1909 and canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1925.