A missionary close to people
In 1627, when plague struck the Argentan region, John Eudes went to the sick, who had no access to spiritual care. His mission began with this courageous presence among people in distress. For the next fifty years, he travelled through parishes proclaiming the Gospel and renewing the grace of baptism.
His example calls us to bridge the distances between us and others: listen to someone’s pain, visit a person who is isolated, or offer words that lift them up. Faith becomes mission when it takes the form of a loving presence.
Forming others for mission
Through his missions, John Eudes came to see that renewal must continue after preachers leave. He gathered priests, worked on their formation, and founded the Congregation of Jesus and Mary on March 25, 1643, opening its first seminary in Caen.
Forming pastors requires sound knowledge, a life of prayer, and attentive care for people. His insight remains fruitful: learn together, support vocations, and unite the efforts of priests and lay people so that the Gospel may bear lasting fruit.
An apostle of the Hearts of Jesus and Mary
For John Eudes, the heart expresses the love that animates a whole life. In 1648 he had a liturgical feast of the Heart of Mary celebrated in Autun; in 1672, Eudist communities celebrated the feast of the Heart of Jesus. Prayer, writing, and liturgy gave voice to his contemplation of God’s love.
This spirituality calls us to recover our inner life and let Christ transform how we love. With Mary, welcoming his presence opens a path of trust, mercy, and care for those we meet.
A spiritual guide for daily life
Published in 1637,The Life and the Kingdom of Jesus in Christian Soulsoffers a path for Christian life. John Eudes invites the baptized to let Jesus live and act within them. This union shapes every part of life: prayer, relationships, work, and service.
Mercy also took concrete form in the foundation of Our Lady of Charity in 1641. Following his example, we can review our day in the light of the Gospel: whom did we listen to, encourage, and love? Every act of kindness can help Jesus live in our hearts.
