Today is the Feast of Saint John Vianney (1786 – 1859), the patron saint of parish priests. Happy feast day!

“What a blessing the priests of this Diocese of Lansing are to our diocese & to me. Thanks, brothers, and thanks be to God!” said Bishop Earl Boyea on Twitter, August 4. This evening, Bishop Boyea will gather with many of his priests to pray together and celebrate today’s feast.

St. John Baptist Mary Vianney (1786-1859) was born in Dardilly and died in Ars, France. Although his talents were limited and his education meager, he was ordained a priest in 1815. After three years at Ecully, he was appointed parish priest of Ars. Here he spent almost 42 years of his life, devoting himself to prayer, mortification, and pastoral works.

His success in directing souls made him known throughout the Christian world. Men of all ranks and conditions of life sought his guidance and advice. It is said that Satan once told St. John Vianney, “If there were three such priests as you, my kingdom [in France] would be ruined”.

He was beatified by Pope St. Pius X, himself once a parish priest, and canonized by Pope Pius XI. Saint John Vianney, pray for us!

• Additional material courtesy of Catholic Culture: https://www.catholicculture.org/