John Eudes

John Eudes was a French Roman Catholic priest who devoted his life to the service of God and the Church. He was educated by the Jesuits at Caen and joined the Oratory of Jesus in 1623. He was ordained a priest in 1625 and became a renowned preacher and confessor. He had a special devotion to the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary and composed Masses and Offices for their feasts. He also founded two religious congregations: the Congregation of Jesus and Mary (Eudists) in 1643, which aimed at training candidates for the priesthood and preaching missions; and the Order of Our Lady of Charity in 1641, which cared for women who wanted to reform their lives. He also established several seminaries and houses of refuge for women. He faced many difficulties and oppositions from the Jansenists, who condemned his teachings on the Sacred Hearts. He died in Caen on August 19, 1680, after a long illness. He was canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1925 and is considered the father of the liturgical cult of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. He is also a patron saint of several dioceses and missions. His writings include books, letters, sermons, and spiritual treatises. He is known for his zeal, piety, charity, and wisdom.