St. John Vianney was a parish priest who lived from 1786 to 1859. Due to the anti-clerical sentiment of the French Revolution during his youth, he made his first communion and first reconciliation in secret. Later he felt called to the priesthood. He had no formal education and found the scholastic work required for ordination very difficult. Eventually he became a parish priest in the village of Ars.
St. John Vianney was known for his holiness, his dedication to our Blessed Mother, and his reputation as a confessor. He is also called The Cure of Ars.
His feast day is August 4.
Patron Saint of ...
He is the patron saint of parish priests.
Daily Mass Readings for the Memorial of St. John Vianney, Priest
In addition to the suggested readings below, the readings may also be taken from the weekday readings or the Common of Pastors.
- First Reading - Ezekiel 3:17-21:"When, on the other hand, you have warned a virtuous man not to sin, and he has in fact not sinned, he shall surely live because of the warning, and you shall save your own life."
- Responsorial Psalm - Psalm 117: "Go out to all the world and tell the Good News."
- Gospel - Matthew 9:35-10:1: "The harvest is abundant but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest."
Quote
When we cannot come to church, let us turn towards the Tabernacle and make a spiritual Communion. A wall cannot separate us from God.
St. John Vianney
USCCB Reflection: Compassion in the Heart of a Priest
This USCCB reflection commemorates the Memorial of St. John Vianney, the patron saint of Parish priests. It highlights the compassionate and pastoral nature of St. John, who served as a chief priest in the town of Ars. Despite his humble background, he exemplified a deep sense of compassion, accompanying his people through the messiness of their lives. The reflection calls for prayers for all Parish priests to rediscover the essence of pastoral ministry, centered on compassion and empathy, akin to the heart of Jesus.
More Resources
Spiritual Communion When We Cannot Come To Church
It has long been a practice for those who cannot receive the actual body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ in communion to join spiritually with Him. While participating in Mass via a livestream or a recorded video, we make a spiritual communion.
Pray for More Vocations to the Priesthood
It is no secret that we need more priests in the Catholic Church. Giving your whole life to the service of the Church is counter-cultural and many young people do not even consider it.
Frequently Asked Questions
What date Is the Feast of Saint John Vianney?
It is observed annually on August 4.
What are the Mass readings for the Memorial of St. John Vianney, Priest?
In addition to the suggested readings below, the readings may also be taken from the weekday readings or the Common of Pastors.
First Reading - Ezekiel 3:17-21
Responsorial Psalm - Psalm 117
Gospel - Matthew 9:35-10:1
Who is St. John Vianney?
St. John Vianney was a parish priest who lived in France from 1786 to 1859. He was known for his holiness, his dedication to our Blessed Mother, and his reputation as a confessor. He is also called The Cure of Ars.
Who is St. John Vianney the patron saint of?
He is the patron saint of parish priests.
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