Born on the 31st of January 1597, into a wealthy family at Foncouverte, John Francis was so impressed by his Jesuit educators that he himself wished to enter the Society of Jesus and did so at age of 18. Despite his rigorous academic schedule, he spent many hours in the chapel, often to the dismay of fellow seminarians who were concerned about his health.

Following his ordination to the priesthood, John Francis undertook missionary work in various French towns. His sermons revealed the fervour within him and attracted people of all classes. Father Regis especially made himself available to the poor. Many mornings were spent in the confessional or at the altar, celebrating Mass; afternoons were reserved for visits to prisons and hospitals.

Impressed by the success of father Regis in his mission, the bishop of Viviers decided to utilize his divine gifts for the believers since they had been deprived of the sacraments for more than 20 years, as many bishops were absent and priests negligent towards the spiritual needs of the people. Various forms of Protestantism and a general indifference towards religion were prevalent during those days. For three years, father Regis travelled throughout the diocese, conducting missions in advance of a visit by the bishop. He succeeded in converting many people and in bringing many others back to religious observances.

Though Father Regis longed to work as a missionary among the Native Americans in Canada, he was destined to work for the Lord in the wildest and most desolate part of his native France. There he encountered rigorous winters, snowdrifts and other deprivations. Meanwhile he continued preaching in missions and earned the reputation as a saint.

The last four years of his life were spent preaching and organizing social services, especially for prisoners, the sick and the poor. In the autumn of 1640, father Regis sensed that his days were coming to a conclusion. He settled some of his affairs and prepared for the end by continuing to do what he did so well: speaking to the people about the God who loved them.

He died on December 31 and his final words were: “Into thy hands I commend my spirit.”

John Francis Regis was canonized in 1737.

Other Saints of the Day

1. Saint Aureus
2. Saint Colman McRhoi
3. Saint Luthgard
4. Saint Tychon
5. Saint Curig

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