Jean de Brébeuf was born in France in 1593. He entered the Jesuits after he completed his university studies, and at the age of 32, he became a missionary to evangelize the Native Americans with a group of other Jesuits. He lived with the Hurons and established missions with them. He learned their language, adopted their native diet and means of travel, and also learned their customs and beliefs. To help other missionaries, he wrote a French-to-Huron dictionary and phrasebook and translated a catechism. Along with other missionaries, Fr. Brébeuf converted thousands despite continual suspicion of Christianity by the Huron elders. After spending 20 years in New France, he was martyred by torture and scalping when the Iroquois attacked the Hurons.
CHALLENGE
St. John de Brébeuf said, “Always show any other Indians you meet on the way a cheerful face and show that you readily accept the fatigues of the journey.” If you want to spread the joy of the Gospel, you must live the joy of the Gospel. Today, put on a cheerful face, no matter where you are or the fatigue of what you are doing.
A print copy of The Saint Challenge is a must for every Catholic’s personal library. Buy your copy today!
