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Feast Day: March 21
Blessed John of Valence, also known as Blessed John of Lyon, was born in Lyons, France. Little is known about his early life, but he is believed to have grown up in a devout Catholic family. John's deep faith led him to pursue a life dedicated to serving God and his fellow brothers and sisters.
As a young man, John became a canon at Lyons, where he exhibited a remarkable zeal for prayer and contemplation. However, his desire for a more ascetic and disciplined life eventually drew him to the renowned Clairvaux Abbey, where he entered the Benedictine Cistercian order under the spiritual guidance of Saint Bernard.
During his time at Clairvaux, John developed a fervent devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, a devotion that would continue throughout his entire life. His unwavering devotion to prayer and his diligent study of Scripture and theological texts earned him a reputation as a pious and learned monk.
In the year 1117, John founded the Cistercian Bonneval Abbey with the support of Saint Bernard. The abbey flourished under his leadership, becoming a center of spirituality and contemplation. John's exceptional administrative skills, combined with his humble and compassionate nature, endeared him to the monks and the surrounding community.
In 1141, to the great surprise of many, John was appointed as the Bishop of Valence, France. Overwhelmed by a sense of unworthiness for this esteemed position, John felt compelled to be physically carried to the altar for his consecration ceremony. Despite his reservations, John wholeheartedly embraced his role as bishop, dedicating himself to the spiritual welfare of his flock.
However, Blessed John of Valence's concerns extended beyond matters of faith alone. During a regional financial crisis that severely impacted the lives of farmers, merchants, and the impoverished, John fought tirelessly to alleviate their suffering. His compassionate advocacy for the marginalized and his efforts to alleviate the burden of debt earned him the admiration and gratitude of the community.
Blessed John of Valence was known for his deep love for the Eucharist and his faithful adherence to the teachings of the Church. He fervently believed in the power of prayer and tirelessly sought to bring others closer to God. His teachings and sermons were characterized by their simplicity, clarity, and profound spiritual insight.
Following a life dedicated to the service of God and his fellow human beings, Blessed John of Valence died of natural causes in 1146. Although information about his representation is scarce, his feast day is celebrated on March 21st. Additionally, some calendars commemorate his feast day on April 26th.
In recognition of his virtuous life and exemplary witness of faith, Pope Pius X beatified Blessed John of Valence in 1901, confirming his cultus. Today, he continues to inspire believers as a model of humility, compassion, and dedication to God's people.