Blessed Henri Vergès

Biography

Blessed Henri Vergès, also known as Enric Vergés, was born on 15 July 1930 in Matemale, Pyrénées-Orientales, France. From an early age, he received his education from the Marist Brothers of the Schools, beginning his studies at the age of 12 in Espirá de l‚ÄôAglí and later in Saint-Paul-Trois-Châteaux, both located in France.

Inspired by the Marist way of life, Henri decided to join the order himself in 1945. After a period of formation and discernment, he made his perpetual vows on 26 August 1952, fully dedicating his life to God and the service of others.

In 1947, Henri started his teaching career as an elementary school teacher in Nimes, France. However, due to the demanding combination of work, studies, and the simplicity of Marist living, his health began to deteriorate. In 1950, he had to spend some time in a hospital in Osséja, France, to recover.

Undeterred by his health struggles, Henri continued his journey within the Marist community. From 1952, he served as a teacher in Le Cheylard, France, before being assigned as a novice instructor in Aubenas and Bordeaux, both in France. He further honed his skills as the sub-master of the novices at Notre-Dame de Lacabane in Corrèze, France, from 1958 to 1966.

Henri also held leadership roles within the Marist order. He served as the Marist superior in Bourg-de-Péage and Ganges, both in France, and was delegated to the Marist general chapter in 1967.

Seeking to expand his knowledge, Henri pursued studies in philosophy and received a degree in Montpellier, France, in 1968. He then took an interest in the Arabic language, which led to his appointment as the director of the Saint-Bonaventure school in Algiers in 1969.

However, in 1976, the school was nationalized by the Algerian government, and Henri's position was terminated. Continuing his dedication to education, he became a professor of mathematics at the school of Sour-El-Ghozlane, where he taught until 1988.

Henri's love for knowledge and learning extended beyond the classroom. In 1988, he was appointed as the director of the library of the Archdiocese of Algiers, a role that suited his passion for books and serving the intellectual needs of the community.

Tragically, on 8 May 1994, Blessed Henri Vergès was shot twice in the head by Muslim fundamentalists who infiltrated the library disguised as police officers. His deep faith and commitment to his vocation led him to martyrdom.

His funeral Mass was celebrated at the Basilica of Our Lady of Africa, and he was laid to rest in Algiers on 12 May 1994. Recognizing his brave sacrifice and unwavering devotion, on 26 January 2018, Pope Francis venerated Henri Vergès with a decree of martyrdom. He was subsequently beatified on 8 December 2018 by Pope Francis.

Blessed Henri Vergès remains a shining example of a teacher, servant of God, and martyr, inspiring others with his dedication to education, his selfless service to the Marist community, and his steadfast faith in the face of adversity.