Jean de Brébeuf
1593-1649 17th century Feast day: October 19
Patient rootedness in a language and a people, to the point of total gift.
Who was Jean de Brébeuf?
A Norman Jesuit sent to New France, he lived nearly twenty years among the Huron-Wendat, learned their language deeply, and composed a catechism and a Christmas carol in their tongue. He shared their life, their famines and their epidemics. Captured in an Iroquois raid, he was tortured to death with an endurance that struck even his executioners.
In their own words
For two days now I have felt within me a great desire for martyrdom.
I vow never to fail the grace of martyrdom, if one day You should offer it to me in Your mercy.