This past week we had a special “guest” in Seattle U.S.
He was the first to experience the Divine Mercy, which he then brought to countless others as he heard confessions up to 18 hours a day. People from all over Europe streamed to his confessional in Ars to “experience the love and mercy of God.”
His is a great story and example of faith and perseverance in seemingly difficult odds. He was so slow to learn and no one thought he would ever be ordained, but the Holy Spirit had other ideas. He wound up being known by all who encountered him for his sanctity, cheerfulness and mercy.
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| The Icon which accompanies his heart |
As Catholics today struggle to find meaning in the crises with priests in the Church, I would recommend reading about this holy priest, who himself lived through turbulent times in France and in the Church, yet in his humility and holiness, he gave comfort to many thousands of souls.
St. John Vianney certainly gives the example of what the heart of a priest should be!. The significance and beauty of his life is to be found in his simple witness of being a faithful and loving parish priest who had a deep love of the Eucharist.