St. John of Matha
Priest and Founder of the Trinitarians
Feast Day: December 17
Biography
St. John of Matha (1160–1213) was born in Faucon, in Provence, in southern France. He studied in Aix-en-Provence and then theology at the University of Paris, where he was ordained a priest. According to the Trinitarian tradition, during his first Mass he received a vision of Christ holding by the hand two captives, one Christian and one Moor, which he understood as a call to work for the freedom of captives. At that time many Christians were held prisoner in North Africa and Spain as a result of war and piracy, and many were in danger of losing their faith. After a period of prayer, tradition says with the hermit St. Felix of Valois at Cerfroid, north of Paris, John founded a new religious order dedicated to the Holy Trinity and to the ransom of captives. On December 17, 1198, Pope Innocent III approved its rule. The Trinitarians set aside part of their income for the ransoming of prisoners, cared for the sick and poor, and soon redeemed their first captives. The order spread quickly in France, Spain, and Italy. John spent his last years in Rome, where he died on December 17, 1213. His cult was confirmed by Pope Alexander VII in 1666. The Trinitarian Order continues today to serve persecuted Christians and prisoners.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. John of Matha, you adored the Holy Trinity and gave your life to setting captives free. Pray for prisoners, for victims of trafficking, and for Christians persecuted for their faith. Help me to see Christ in those who are bound in body or spirit, and to work with love for their freedom and dignity. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. John of Matha, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. John of Matha, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.