Saint Claude La Colombiere
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Claude de la Colombiere SJ (1641-1682), promoted the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. He was born of French noble parents in 1641. His young years were apparently happy ones, as he was close to his family and friends, leading an active social life. He entered the Jesuit novitiate at 17 and commenced a life of study and teaching. After his ordination he taught at the Jesuit college in Lyons, preached, and served as moderator for several Marian congregations.
In 1674, after 15 years of Jesuit life, Colombiere took a personal vow to observe the Rule and Constitutions of the Society of Jesus. He discovered in this program of sanctity an experience of inner liberation and a greater ability to open his heart to others in ministry.In 1676 Claude became the appointed preacher for the Duchess of York (later Queen of England). He moved to London, where he worked to reconcile former Catholics with the Church. In 1678 he was caught in the web of lies spun by Titus Oates about an alleged plot by Jesuits to kill Charles II. Claude, in spite of failing health, was first thrown into prison and later exiled to France. In 1682 Colombiere died in Paray-le-Monial. |
Quotes
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“God is in the midst of us, or rather,
we are in the midst of Him; wherever we are, He sees us and touches us, at prayer, at work, at table, at recreation.” -Claude de la Colombiere “May the Heart of Jesus Christ be our school! Let us make our abode there. Let us study its movements and attempt to conform ours to them. Yes, O Divine Jesus, I want to live there.” -Claude de la Colombiere “Lord, I am in this world to show Your mercy to others...For my part I will glorify You by making known how good You are to sinners, that Your mercy is boundless.” -Claude de la Colombiere |
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Public Domain Image.
Image has been cropped. |
