Daily Saint

St. Anthony Mary Claret was a Spanish archbishop, missionary, author, and founder whose extraordinary zeal for evangelization led him to preach, teach, write, and establish schools and religious communities.

Born in Sallent, Catalonia, in 1807, Anthony learned the trade of weaving as a young man and considered a career in the textile industry. Later, he discerned a priestly vocation and entered the seminary. Ordained in 1835, he became a powerful missionary preacher. Traveling through Catalonia and the Canary Islands, he preached to large crowds and heard confessions for hours.

In 1849, he founded the Claretians, also known as the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, a community of missionary priests and brothers dedicated to preaching and spreading the Gospel.

In 1850, at the request of Queen Isabella II, he was appointed Bishop of Santiago in Cuba. There he worked to reform the clergy, establish schools, assist the poor, and improve the spiritual and social conditions of the people. He revitalized the people’s faith through powerful outdoor preaching, many hours in the confessional, and spiritual retreats.

His success in Cuba brought opposition from anti-clericalists, who gravely wounded him in an assassination attempt. Anthony was called to Spain to serve as confessor to Queen Isabella II. He also helped with charitable works and education. In 1868, a coup exiled the queen to France, and Anthony accompanied her.

During the First Vatican Council, he defended the pope and remained committed to the Church despite political turmoil. He authored numerous books and pamphlets published for evangelization and catechesis.

St. Anthony Mary Claret died at the Cistercian monastery of Fontfroide on October 24, 1870. Pope Pius XII canonized him in 1950. His life was driven by the fervent desire to bring people to Christ. His preaching, writing, pastoral and educational efforts, and charitable works were directed to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ.