Roman Catholics observe Friday, Aug. 19, the memory of Saint John Eudes, the initiator of the important feasts of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary.
Several religious congregations, which he founded and have since spread in many parts of the world including the Philippines such as the Congregation of Jesus and Mary (1643), the Sisters of Our Lady of Charity (1641), and the Good Shepherd Nuns, will hold commemorative masses and special prayer services in honor of the venerated French saint.
At the National Shrine of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in Makati City, special masses in his honor will be offered at 6 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and at 6 p.m.
Considered by the Holy See as the “Apostle of Devotion to the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary,” St. John composed the mass for the Sacred Heart and the Holy Heart of Mary and promoted widespread devotion through his well read books, “The Devotion to the Admirable Heart of Jesus,” and “The Admirable Heart of the Most Holy Mother of God.”
Born in Normandy, France on Nov. 14, 1601, St. John was ordained priest in 1625. He was an outstanding preacher, missionary worker, confessor, and was considered as one of the most outstanding figures among the clergy during 17th century France. He died in the year 1680 and was canonized by Pope Pius XI on May 31, 1925. (Christina I. Hermoso)