André Bessette

1845-1937 19th century Feast day: January 6

The self-effacement of one who refers every grace beyond himself.

Who was André Bessette?

Doorkeeper at Notre-Dame College in Montreal, this Holy Cross brother, unlettered and frail, spent forty years welcoming visitors and entrusting them to Saint Joseph. The sick came, cures were reported, and a crowd gathered around his stubborn prayer. He had the Oratory on Mount Royal built, crediting everything to Joseph and nothing to himself.

In their own words

I do not cure. Saint Joseph cures.

Reported sayings

People who suffer have something to offer to God. When they manage to endure their suffering, that is a daily miracle.

Reported sayings

When you invoke Saint Joseph, you don't need to speak much. Your Father in heaven knows what you need; His friend Saint Joseph knows it too.

Reported sayings