Saint Jose Maria De Yermo Y Parres

Biography

Saint Jose Maria de Yermo y Parres was born on 10 November 1851 in Jalmolonga, Mexico. From a young age, he showed exceptional intellectual abilities and was an excellent student. His passion for knowledge pushed him to pursue higher education, and he later became involved in the Saint Vincent de Paul Society, a Catholic charitable organization. After discerning a calling to the priesthood, Jose Maria was ordained on 24 August 1879 in León, Guanajuato, Mexico. He dedicated himself to serving the poor and marginalized, a task he carried out with great zeal and compassion. Witnessing the immense suffering and poverty around him, Jose Maria was driven to take action and founded the Congregation of the Servants of the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Poor on 13 December 1885. The religious congregation, established by Saint Jose Maria, aimed to provide aid to those most in need, establishing schools, orphanages, hospitals, clinics, shelters for the elderly, and refuge for the abused. This dedicated group of individuals worked tirelessly to address the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of the impoverished. The congregation expanded its reach, not only in Mexico but also throughout the Americas, Europe, and Africa, spreading their mission of love and service worldwide. Saint Jose Maria's pastoral work extended beyond conventional boundaries as he also reached out to the Tamahumara Indians, a marginalized indigenous group in Mexico. He focused on empowering them through education and providing them with the skills needed to improve their lives and communities. His efforts greatly impacted the Tamahumara Indians and helped to foster social and economic growth within their communities. On 20 September 1904, Saint Jose Maria de Yermo y Parres passed away in Puebla de los Angeles, Mexico, peacefully succumbing to natural causes. His selfless devotion to the poor and vulnerable had left an indelible mark on countless lives and his legacy continued to inspire. Recognizing his holiness and remarkable virtues, Pope John Paul II declared him Venerable on 7 September 1989. Pope John Paul II later beatified him on 6 May 1990, and finally, on 21 May 2000, Saint Jose Maria de Yermo y Parres was canonized as a saint, further testament to his exemplary life and dedication to serving others. While Saint Jose Maria de Yermo y Parres does not have a specific patronage assigned to him, his life and work can serve as an inspiration to all who seek to alleviate the suffering of the poor and marginalized. His legacy remains a shining example of love, compassion, and selfless service to humanity.