Feast of St. John Vianney, Patron of Parish Priests
Born near Lyon, France, this farmer’s son studied for the priesthood for many years, and eventually was ordained more for his devoutness and goodwill than for other qualities. But he became a model parish priest in Arsen-Dombes, where he served for 40 years. He was devoted to his parishioners and became famous for rigorous preaching and insights in the confessional. The Cure of Ars, as he was known, spent up to 18 hours a day hearing the confessions of pilgrims who sought him out. He is the patron of parish priests.
The Eparchy offers its prayers and festal greetings to the Eparchial Bishop, Aboon Mar Stephanos and all priests serving the St. Mary Queen of Peace Eparchy, on this Feast of St. John Vianney!
NB: Photo courtesy of Catholic News Agency, a service of EWTN News, Inc.