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Feast Day: February 15
Birth: February 2, 1641
Death: February 15, 1682
Saint Claude de la Colombière, also known as Claudio or Claudius, was born on February 2, 1641, in Saint-Symphorien d'Ozon, Rhône, France. He belonged to a noble French family and from a young age, he felt a strong calling to religious life. Claude received his education at a Jesuit college in Lyons, France, where he developed a deep and abiding faith. After completing his studies, Claude became a priest and taught humanities in Avignon, France. He furthered his studies in Paris, France, and also worked as a tutor. During this time, he preached passionately against Jansenism, a theological movement that emphasized the fallen nature of humanity and promoted strict adherence to moral laws. Instead, Claude advocated for devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and urged his followers to embrace the love and mercy of Christ. In 1659, Claude joined the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), a religious order known for their intellectual and academic pursuits. He became the spiritual director of Saint Margaret Mary of Alocoque, a nun who received visions of Jesus and promoted devotion to the Sacred Heart. Claude played a crucial role in supporting and guiding Margaret Mary in her mission. In addition to his spiritual guidance, Claude served as the chaplain to Mary Beatrice d'Este, the Duchess of York. He dedicated himself to converting Protestants to Catholicism and was successful in many instances, using his holy and exemplary life as a means of persuasion. However, during this time, England was embroiled in the political turmoil of the "Popish plots," which involved accusations of Catholic conspiracies against the King and attempts to reintroduce Catholicism as the official religion. Due to the rumors surrounding these plots, Claude was unjustly accused of being part of the Titus Oates Plot and imprisoned. Despite his innocence, Claude faced harsh treatment and endured numerous abuses while in prison. His health deteriorated as a result, and upon his release, he returned to Paray-le-Monial, Saône-et-Loire, France, where he lived out the remaining years of his life. Unfortunately, his health had been irreparably damaged, and he suffered from hemoptysis, which caused him to cough up blood. On February 15, 1682, Claude passed away, but the impact he had made during his life continued to be felt. The day after his death, Saint Margaret Mary received a supernatural assurance that Claude, now referred to as Saint Claude de la Colombière, was already in heaven and in no need of prayers. His reputation as a holy and dedicated servant of God remained steadfast. In recognition of his virtues and the impact he had on the lives of many, Pope Leo XIII venerated Saint Claude on August 11, 1901. Later, on June 16, 1929, Pope Pius XI beatified him, and finally, on May 31, 1992, Pope John Paul II canonized him in Rome, Italy. Saint Claude de la Colombière is also known as a "dry" martyr, as he faced persecution, imprisonment, and various abuses for his faith, although he did not suffer death. He is venerated as the patron saint of toy makers and turners, and his feast day is celebrated on February 15th each year. The life of Saint Claude de la Colombière serves as an inspiration to all who seek to live a life dedicated to God and the teachings of Christ.