St. André Bessette
Feast day: January 6
Born in Canada in 1845, André moved to the United States, where he worked as a laborer for several years. Returning to Canada, he joined the Congregation of the Holy Cross and took his final vows in 1874. Known as Brother Andre, he dedicated his life to serving others, and with St. Joseph as his intercessor, he developed a healing ministry. He went on to help build the Oratory of the Holy Cross, where he spent the rest of his life. André died in 1937 and was canonized by Pope Benedict XVI in 2010. He is patron of caregivers.
Collect
Lord our God, friend of the lowly,
who gave your servant, Saint André Bessette,
a great devotion to Saint Joseph
and a special commitment to the poor and afflicted,
help us through his intercession
to follow his example of prayer and love
and so come to share with him in your glory.
Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
God, for ever and ever.
