Feast Day: October 24
Patronage:
Claretians, missionaries, and weavers.
Biography:
Saint Anthony Mary Claret was born in 1807 in Sallent, Spain. From a young age, he felt called to serve God and entered the priesthood. A tireless missionary, he preached throughout Spain and the Canary Islands, calling people to conversion and renewal of faith. He later founded the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary — known today as the Claretians — dedicated to evangelization and service to the poor.
Saint Anthony also served as Archbishop of Santiago, Cuba, where he worked to reform clergy life, defend the dignity of marriage, and care for the needy. He suffered persecution and exile but remained steadfast in his love for Christ and the Blessed Virgin Mary. He died in 1870, leaving behind a legacy of zeal, humility, and apostolic courage.
Prayer:
O God, who made Saint Anthony Mary Claret a devoted preacher of Your Word and a faithful servant of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, grant that we too may love You with burning zeal and bring Your truth to others. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
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