Saint Claude de la Colombiere, SJ, was a pivotal figure in the promotion of the Sacred Heart of Jesus devotion, acting as the spiritual confidant to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. Born into a noble French family in 1641, Claude enjoyed a joyful childhood, enriched by close bonds with family and friends, alongside an engaging social life. At the age of 17, he embarked on a spiritual journey by joining the Jesuit novitiate, diving into a rigorous regimen of study, teaching, and eventually, ordination. His early years as a Jesuit saw him imparting knowledge at the Jesuit college in Lyons, delivering sermons, and leading Marian congregations.
Fifteen years into his Jesuit ministry, in 1674, Colombiere committed himself through a personal vow to meticulously follow the Rule and Constitutions of the Society of Jesus. This commitment deepened his spiritual life, offering him a sense of inner freedom and enhancing his capacity to connect with others in his pastoral work.
Claude’s life took a significant turn in 1675 when he was appointed rector of the Jesuit college in Paray-le-Monial, France. It was here that he met Sr. Margaret Mary Alacoque, who was experiencing divine revelations of Jesus Christ’s compassionate heart. Despite her anxieties and doubts about her visions, Colombiere provided her with reassurance and guidance, validating the authenticity of her mystical experiences. He encouraged Sr. Margaret Mary to document her revelations, committing himself to advancing the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus.
In 1676, Colombiere’s journey led him to London as the appointed preacher to the Duchess of York, who would later become the Queen of England. During his time in London, he endeavored to bring former Catholics back to the faith. However, his mission was disrupted in 1678 when he became entangled in the false accusations of the Titus Oates plot, which alleged a Jesuit conspiracy to assassinate Charles II. Despite deteriorating health, Colombiere faced imprisonment and later exile back to France, where he passed away in 1682 in Paray-le-Monial.
Pope John Paul II canonized Claude de la Colombiere in 1992, honoring his instrumental role in fostering the devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and his steadfast spiritual guidance to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque.
Photo credit: Octave 444 via Wikimedia Commons
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