Saint St. John Neumann

Feast Day January 5

Patron Saint of Learning

Members of the MMG usually join us when their own heart is hurting because a loved one is no longer a practicing Catholic.  Most quickly find themselves helping to spread the word to other hurting hearts that we have found it is possible to live in peace because God is working with those we love.  Members may start or join a "Silent Strength" prayer group; tell friends and family about us; or volunteer their time, treasure, and/or talents to help this ministry continue to let people know that, "It is not hopeless and we are not helpless."  We are grateful and ask God's blessings on all.

Who is St John Neumann?

St John Neumann was a European immigrant who arrived in New York in 1836.  After ordination to the priesthood, and then becoming a Bishop, he went on to build numerous churches and schools causing the number of parochial school students in his diocese to grow from 500 to 9,000.  In 1977, he became the first American man and first American bishop to be canonized. 

Prayer to St John Neumann

Dear St. John, help us to continue learning and to help others learn of Jesus' love for all.  Help our prodigals to learn the truth that only in the Catholic Church can they find the Real Presence of Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament.  Intercede for our loved ones and for us that we may persevere in prayer and that those prayers will illuminate the path back to Jesus and His Church for them.

     [St John] Neumann took seriously our Lord’s words, “Go and teach all nations.” From Christ he received his instructions and the power to carry them out. For Christ does not give a mission without supplying the means to accomplish it. The Father’s gift in Christ to John Neumann was his exceptional organizing ability, which he used to spread the Good News. 
     Today the Church is in dire need of men and women to continue in our times the teaching of the Good News. The obstacles and inconveniences are real and costly. Yet when Christians approach Christ, he supplies the necessary talents to answer today’s needs. The Spirit of Christ continues his work through the instrumentality of generous Christians.  
                     ~From Saint of the Day Lives,
                       Lessons and Feast
                       By Leonard Foley, O.F.M.