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Saint John Vianney

Saint John Vianney: Feast Day August 4th 

Today we celebrate Saint John Vianney, a French priest known as "The Cure d'Ars." During his life, he listened to confessions for hours a day, and through his dedication to hearing confessions, he reminds us just how important the Sacrament of Reconciliation is not only to the laity, but also to priests. As patron saint of priests, he serves as a reminder that priests should not only always have a dedicated time for Reconciliation available for the faithful, but that they should also be available and willing to hear confessions whenever someone approaches them. I feel like the Sacrament of Reconciliation is unfortunately often overlooked. Yet through Saint John Vianney's love and devotion to this sacrament, we are reminded of the graces waiting for us in Reconciliation, and of Jesus' Divine Mercy for us. If you haven't been to Reconciliation in a while, be inspired by Saint John Vianney to go to confession. The burdens that will be lifted... the graces that you will receive... the Divine Mercy you will experience... are treasures and gifts ready to be given to you anytime you seek them with a humble and repentant heart.  Saint John Vianney, dedicated listener and instrument of the Lord for absolving sins, as we celebrate you today, pray for us, that we may have the courage and humility to seek healing and strength in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Amen.

Here is the version of the "Act of Contrition" I learned when I made the Sacrament of Reconciliation that you can copy and print to take with you to confession.

My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to to wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Our Savior Jesus Christ suffered and died for us. In His Name. My God have mercy. Amen.    

Celebrating with Food: 

If you like cheese, you will absolutely love this recipe from the website, “The Spruce Eats,” for  Gourgeres— French Cheese puff appetizers.  Not only are they easy to make, but their warm cheesiness is irresistible in taste and aroma (you've probably guessed by now that I really like cheese!) I use sharp cheddar cheese when I make these, because that’s what my kids like.

Celebrating with a Craft/Activity: 

Take time today to look at a map of France. You and your children can plot the locations of  Dardilly (where Saint John Vianney was born), and Ars (where he served). You can also make this an even deeper grip faith lesson by plotting physical land features, like mountains and rivers, and add a legend and compass rose to your map. Here is a Printable map of France from the website “Coloring.ws” that you can use. This map also has the word “France” that younger children can trace to practice letters .

AAdditional Resource: 

Here is a video about Saint John Vianney from EWTN's children's show, "My Catholic Family," that my children love to watch.





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