Santo De Hoy 15 De Abril L San Damián De Molokai L Amen Comunicaciones

San Damián de Molokai, the apostle of lepers, was a true hero of love and faith. Born in Belgium in 1840, he came from a humble and poor family. Despite facing ridicule from his peers, he pursued his studies in Brussels with patience and determination. Eventually, he joined the religious community of the Sacred Hearts and expressed his fervent desire to become a missionary. He would kneel before the image of San Francisco Javier, praying for the grace to be a missionary like him.

One day, when one of his fellow community members fell ill and couldn't go on a mission to Hawaii, San Damián stepped in to fulfill his dream of becoming a missionary. Two months after arriving in Honolulu, he was ordained as a priest and was later transferred to a small island in Hawaii. In this place devoid of material possessions, they slept under a palm tree. Despite the initial resistance, San Damián gradually gained the admiration and respect of the people, many of whom converted to Christianity. He even built a small chapel for them.

However, there was another island called Molokai, where all the lepers were isolated. San Damián felt called to go there and bring hope to this land of pain and despair. In 1873, he arrived in Molokai, fully aware that he was entering a perpetual desert and that he would eventually contract leprosy himself. But he believed that no sacrifice was too great if it was done for Christ.

The lepers received him with great hope, and San Damián began by restoring their human dignity and their worth in the eyes of God. He also managed to gather material aid from different parts of the world. He became a beacon of light and joy for the lepers. Unfortunately, in 1889, he contracted leprosy and passed away. However, his legacy lives on. San Damián was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1994 and canonized by Pope Benedict XVI on October 11, 2009. Today, he is recognized as the apostle of lepers.

Lessons for Life: The Extreme of Charity

San Damián de Molokai's life teaches us about the extreme of charity, which lies in the selfless and generous giving of one's own life for the sake of the poorest, most vulnerable, and needy. His example reminds us not to reject anyone because of their illness, condition, race, or religion. Instead, let us open our hands to welcome and love others.

Prayer of Mercy

Lord Jesus, I praise and bless you for showing me throughout history that it is possible to live in goodness and charity. Today, I offer my strength, will, and time at your feet so that I may bear fruit in charity and mercy towards my brothers and sisters. Lord, make my heart a source of mercy. Help me to be patient and tolerant, to let go of my prejudices, and to be more sensitive to the needs of the fragile. May my words be accompanied by actions that bring light, hope, joy, and peace to the hearts of others. Amen.

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