Biography
St. Anthony Mary Claret was born near Barcelona in 1807. The son of a wool manufacturer, he became a weaver; but at age 22, he decided to enter a seminary. After ordination, he discovered his heart for missionary work. In 1848, he traveled to the Canary Islands and ran retreats for 15 months. Upon his return, he founded the Congregation of the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary as well as an extremely successful publishing company. His efforts were recognized, and at the request of Queen Isabella II of Spain, Pius IX made him Archbishop of Cuba. He traveled to Cuba and served faithfully, building a hospital and numerous schools. At age 50, he returned to Spain and became confessor to Isabella II. He preached widely and established religious libraries. Also, he founded a scientific lab, a natural history museum, as well as a school of language and music. He was canonized in 1950 by Pope Pius XII. [1] Written by Sarah Ciotti Reviewed by Fr. Hugh Feiss, OSB, STD [1] Catholicpedia: The Original Catholic Encyclopedia (1917) for iPhone, iPad, and iPod Touch. s.v. “Antonio Maria Claret.” Note: Optional Memorials and Commemorations are optional celebrations and, at present, we do not include content specific to these special days. This “About Today” is provided so that you can celebrate this Saint as you worship Christ. Thank you for praying with us. If you feel called, your Lenten offering helps carry this prayer to more hearts and languages. Contribute now