Saint John Francis Regis

Saint John Francis Regis

Saint

Feast Day: December 31

Birth: January 31, 1597

Death: December 31, 1640

Biography

Saint John Francis Regis, also known as Jean-François Régis, was born on January 31, 1597, in Font-Couverte, Narbonne, Languedoc, France. He was the son of a wealthy merchant and received his education at the Jesuit college in Beziers. Later, he studied at Cahors, Le Puy, Auch, and Tournon. At the age of 18, John Francis joined the Jesuit order and dedicated himself to the service of God. He was known for his skills as a preacher and catechist. His ability to connect with children was remarkable, and many of the children he taught helped bring their parents back to the Catholic Church. After being ordained at the age of 34, John Francis Regis began his mission work. He first worked with plague victims in Toulouse, France, offering them spiritual comfort and care during their time of suffering. His compassionate service and selfless dedication made a significant impact on those he helped. Regis's exceptional preaching skills led him to be sent as an evangelist to regions that had fallen to the Huguenots after the Edict of Nantes. In these areas, many people had abandoned the Catholic Church. His simple yet powerful method of preaching the truth, combined with his willingness to work for the poor, converted crowds of farmers, workers, and country folk. Despite not having a polished style or appearance, Regis's words resonated deeply with the people. When questioned about his image, he humbly replied, "The rich never lack confessors." He lived a simple life, sustaining himself with apples, black bread, and whatever food he could find. His focus was on preaching, teaching, and hearing confessions. In his mission to help those in need, Regis established hostels for prostitutes who desired to leave the business. He called them "Daughters of Refuge" and faced numerous assaults for his efforts. He also helped a group of country girls by establishing them in the lace-making and embroidery trade, becoming their patron saint in that field. Additionally, Regis established the Confraternities of the Blessed Sacrament. Through this organization, he sought the support of society women, offering them the opportunity to feed the hungry and assist the poor. He would send letters requesting food and money for the less fortunate, and people responded generously. Regis even established a granary for the poor, which sometimes miraculously refilled. He demanded and received medical treatment for the impoverished, ensuring that doctors, nurses, and pharmacists attended to them. Although he was known for his miraculous healings, Regis emphasized that the greatest miracle was the conversion of hardened sinners. In his journey as a Jesuit, Regis faced opposition within his own order. Some of his fellow Jesuits were critical of his zealousness, considering his "simplicity and indiscretion" as not befitting the order's teachings. However, his bishop recognized the jealousy behind these complaints and dismissed them. Although Regis desired to be transferred to Canada to preach without such concerns, he was ordered to continue his good works in the French countryside. At the age of 43, Regis had a premonition of his impending death. He spent three days in retreat, making a general confession before resuming his mission in the mountain villages. Unfortunately, bad weather set in, and he endured harsh conditions, preaching during the day and finding meager shelter at night. As a result, he fell ill with pleurisy, which developed into pneumonia. Regis passed away on December 31, 1640, while preaching a mission in La Louvesc, Dauphine, France. His last words were a prayer to Jesus, saying, "Jesus, my Savior, I recommend my soul to You." Recognizing his holiness and the impact of his work, Pope Clement XI beatified Regis on May 24, 1716. Later, on June 16, 1737, Pope Clement XII canonized him as a saint. Saint John Francis Regis is revered as the patron saint against plague, as well as lace makers, embroiderers, lace workers, medical social workers, and social workers. He is also venerated as a patron saint of French Jesuits and the Sisters of Saint Francis Régis.