Saint Claude de la Colombière

**Saint Claude de la Colombière** (1641–1682) was a French Jesuit priest who served as confessor to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque at Paray-le-Monial and became the first apostle of Sacred Heart devotion. Born in Saint-Symphorien-d'Ozon near Lyon, Claude entered the Society of Jesus in 1658. In 1675, he was assigned as superior of the Jesuit residence at Paray-le-Monial, where he met Margaret Mary and recognized the authenticity of her visions. Jesus had promised her: "I will send you My faithful servant and perfect friend." Father Claude was later sent to England as chaplain to Mary of Modena, Duchess of York. He was arrested during the anti-Catholic persecution of the "Popish Plot" and imprisoned, which permanently damaged his health. He returned to Paray-le-Monial, where he died on February 15, 1682. Pope John Paul II canonized him on May 31, 1992. His relics are venerated in the Chapel of Saint Claude de la Colombière at Paray-le-Monial. **Feast Day:** February 15