A Catechism on prayer, by St. John Mary Vianney

About St. John Mary Vianney Cure D’ars St. John Vianney was born in 1786 in France, the son of a shepherd. At age twenty he began studying for the priesthood and after a short stay in the army, returned home to study at Lyons seminary. John was not a good student and because of his difficulty with Latin, had to be tutored. His goodness and piety led to his ordination in 1815. Three years later he was made the parish priest of Ars, a small village. Known as the Cure of Ars, he spent his life preaching, hearing confessions and living his life constantly in pursuit of the heart of Jesus. He visited his parishioners, especially the sick and the poor. He fasted and prayed and spent many sleepless nights for the intentions of his people. He often spent up to sixteen hours a day in the confessional, reminding people of sins they had forgotten and did not want to confess. His reputation spread and crowds of people came to him from all over the world for spiritual advice and reconciliation. It was told that he multiplied loaves of bread for his orphanage, La Providence. He was known for bringing thousands back to the Catholic church. Refusing all offers of promotions and honors, John remained at Ars his entire life. His works of charity and love and conversion were known throughout the world. He died in 1859. Feast Day Feast Day: August 4th Name Meaning: God is gracious; gift of God Patron Saint of: Priests; confessors #catholicprayer #miracle #letuspraytogether