Saint Anthony Mary Claret

Introduction

Today, the Church celebrates Saint Anthony Mary Claret, the fiery missionary bishop and founder of the Claretians. Born in Spain in 1807, he worked first as a weaver before discerning his vocation to the priesthood. Filled with zeal for the Gospel, he dedicated his life to preaching missions, writing, and spreading devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. His motto, “The love of Christ urges us on,” became the driving force of his ministry.

As Archbishop of Santiago, Cuba, he carried out bold reforms, worked tirelessly for the poor, and defended the dignity of all, even at the risk of persecution. Exiled later from his homeland, he endured opposition and hardship with patience, always uniting himself to Christ crucified. Through the congregation he founded—the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary—his charism continues to inspire men and women to bring the Word of God to the peripheries of the world.

Saint Anthony Mary Claret reminds us that holiness is born of burning love for Christ and an undivided commitment to the mission of the Gospel. As we honor him today, may we too be set aflame with apostolic zeal, ready to serve the Church with courage, generosity, and joy.

Collect
O God, who for the evangelization of peoples strengthened the Bishop Saint Anthony Mary Claret with admirable charity and long-suffering, grant, through his intercession, that, seeking always the things that are yours, we may earnestly devote ourselves to winning our brothers and sisters for Christ. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, for ever and ever.