Call Toll Free : 1-800-560-4999Saint Alphonsus was born in a small village outside of Naples, Italy called Marianella on September 27, 1696. He was brought up a Christian by his wealthy parents. They had St. Alphonsus baptized just two days after his birth. His parents raised him and taught him religion, but never really encouraged a life completely devoted to God.
They sent Alphonsus to law school when he turned sixteen. He graduated and became a very respected lawyer in their community. However Alphonsus never really enjoyed being a lawyer, describing the profession as “full of difficulties”.
One day, Alphonsus lost a pretty big case in court and that was the final straw. He made up his mind that he would be a lawyer no more. This all happened in the year 1723. Alphonsus’ father was absolutely furious with his decision to leave his prestigious career. He was especially upset because Alphonsus had chosen to join the priesthood. He did not want his only son to do this, but Alphonsus’ mind was already set on becoming a priest and there was nothing he could do about it.
On December 21, 1726 Alphonsus was ordained a priest. Alphonsus spent the first several years of his priesthood living with the poor and homeless on the streets in Naples. He began a system of “Evening Chapels” that were coordinated by the local people living on the streets. Many more of these chapels would be up and running by the time of Alphonsus’ death. St. Alphonsus was a very talented speaker and re-inspired many people through his words to return to the Christian faith and way of life.
Alphonsus began living in the Chinese College in Naples in 1729. He started working with even more people than before and realized how many more people in the world could use his help.
St. Alphonsus is best known for creating the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer. He made this congregation because Sister Maria Celeste Crostarosa informed him that God spoke to her in a vision and made it clear that Alphonsus was supposed to make the Congregation and run it.
The ultimate aim of the Congregation was to preach and enlighten the poorer parts of the the cities surrounding them. This gave Alphonsus a completely new meaning in life and really invigorated him to do his best.
In 1762, Alphonsus was named Bishop of Sant’Agagt dei Goti although he did not really want to have to position. Alphonsus felt this way because of his health. If he was going to be Bishop he wanted to be able to give all he could to help his diocese flourish.
He ended up taking the position anyway because everybody really wanted him to. In 1775 he retired from his position and went to live in Pagani, Italy.
This would end up being where Alphonsus would pass away.
On May 26, 1839, Pope Gregory XVI canonized Alphonsus a saint. If you or anybody you know needs help telling the truth or deciding what is right or wrong, a quick prayer to Saint Alphonsus could do the trick because he is the patron saint of confessors and moralists, as well as theologians. Alphonsus’ feast day is celebrated on August 1st of each year.
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