Saint Modeste Andlauer

Biography

Saint Modeste Andlauer, also known as Modeste Andlauer, was born on 22 May 1847 in Rosheim, a town within the diocese of Strasbourg, France. He was the eighth son of Joseph Andlauer, a baker, and Françoise Barbe Bisch. Modeste was baptized on 23 May 1847 at the church of Saints Peter and Paul in Rosheim. As a young man, Modeste pursued his education at the Episcopal College of Saint-Etienne in Strasbourg, France. It was during this time that he felt a calling to the religious life and joined the Society of Jesus, commonly known as the Jesuits, in October 1872 in Saint-Acheul, France. After completing his formation, Modeste was ordained a priest in Arras, France on 22 September 1877. Following his ordination, Father Modeste Andlauer began his ministry as a teacher of German at various colleges in the French cities of Amiens, Lille, and Brest. However, his missionary zeal eventually led him to answer the call to serve in China. Father Andlauer arrived in China on 22 November 1882 and dedicated himself to learning the languages of the region. Throughout his time in China, Father Modeste Andlauer served in several locations and worked closely with another missionary, Saint Rémi Isoré. He was known for his dedication to his work and his willingness to embrace the local culture. Father Andlauer's commitment to the Gospel and his contagious joy made a profound impact on those he encountered. In recognition of his skills and leadership abilities, Father Modeste Andlauer was appointed the Head of Mission in Weishein (Wei Xian), China. He served faithfully in this position, working tirelessly to spread the Catholic faith and bring hope to the people he served. Tragically, Father Andlauer's life was cut short during the Boxer Rebellion, a violent uprising against Western influence and Christianity in China. On 19 June 1900, an armed mob stormed the village where Father Andlauer resided. They targeted anyone who professed to be Catholic, including Father Andlauer. Martyred for his faith, Father Andlauer was executed while he was praying at the altar. As a warning to other Catholics, his head was hung outside the village. The heroic martyrdom of Father Modeste Andlauer was recognized by Pope Pius XII, who decreed his martyrdom on 22 February 1955. On 17 April 1955, Pope Pius XII beatified Father Andlauer, acknowledging his exceptional virtue and sacrifice. Finally, on 1 October 2000, Pope John Paul II canonized him as a saint, elevating him to the highest honor in the Catholic Church. Saint Modeste Andlauer's life serves as an inspiration for all those who seek to live their faith with courage and selflessness. His unwavering dedication to proclaiming the Gospel message even in the face of persecution makes him a shining example of martyrdom and Christian witness. His feast is celebrated on 19 June and is also commemorated on 9 July as one of the Martyrs of China. While he does not have a specific patronage assigned to him, Saint Modeste Andlauer continues to intercede for Christians facing persecution, particularly in areas hostile toward the Catholic faith.