Memorial of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos

Francis Xavier Seelos, born in 1819 in Bavaria, Germany, had a deep calling to become a priest from an early age. After completing his primary and philosophical studies, he pursued theological education and entered the seminary in 1842. During this time, he learned about the Redemptorist missionaries and their work with German-speaking immigrants in the United States, prompting him to join them. He arrived in New York in 1843 and was ordained a priest in 1844. Seelos spent nine years in Pittsburgh, PA, initially as an assistant pastor and later as the community's superior. He was known for his kindness, approachability, and expertise as a confessor and spiritual director. His dedication to the poor and marginalized earned him a reputation as a compassionate pastor. Throughout his life, Seelos remained committed to his missionary vocation, even appealing to President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War to exempt Redemptorist seminarians from military service. He later became an itinerant missionary, preaching in English and German across multiple states. Tragically, Seelos contracted Yellow Fever while caring for the sick in New Orleans in 1867 and passed away at the age of 48. His enduring reputation for holiness led to his beatification in 2000. Francis Xavier Seelos's life exemplifies a profound dedication to the priesthood, a passion for pastoral care, and a commitment to serving those in need.
 
Celebrate the memorial by doing the following:

• Plan a visit to the National Shrine of Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos. Learn more at https://seelos.org/
• Attend mass.
• Learn more about Bl. Francis Xavier Seelos through articles and videos at https://seelos.org/in-the-media/.