Saint Anthony Mary Claret (1807–1870) was a Spanish archbishop, missionary, and founder of the Congregation of Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, known as the Claretians. His life reflected tireless zeal for evangelization, preaching, and reform. Through his writings, apostolic work, and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, he became one of the great confessors of the nineteenth century.
Born in Sallent, Catalonia, Anthony worked as a weaver before discerning his priestly vocation. Ordained in 1835, he quickly became known for his preaching, deep spirituality, and ability to reach people from every walk of life.
Founder of the Claretians
In 1849, Saint Anthony Mary Claret gathered a small group of priests in Vic, Spain, to form the Missionary Sons of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. This new community, inspired by his Marian devotion and missionary vision, dedicated itself to preaching the Gospel in every corner of the world.
The Claretians emphasized popular missions, parish renewal, and spreading Catholic literature. Today, they continue their founder’s legacy, serving in more than 60 countries.
Visit the official Claretian Missionaries site to explore their global mission.
Archbishop of Santiago, Cuba
Pope Pius IX appointed Claret Archbishop of Santiago de Cuba in 1850. His years there were marked by intense pastoral activity. He reformed seminaries, visited distant parishes, and defended the poor and marginalized.
He also founded schools, hospitals, and credit unions to uplift struggling families. His strong opposition to slavery and corruption earned him enemies, and he even survived assassination attempts. Yet Claret remained steadfast, embodying the true spirit of a missionary bishop.
Teacher, Writer, and Spiritual Director
Saint Anthony Mary Claret was not only a preacher but also a prolific writer. He authored more than 100 works on spirituality, catechesis, and moral theology. His book The Right Way became a widely read manual for Christian living.
As confessor to Queen Isabella II of Spain, he also counseled the royal family with courage and humility. Despite political tensions and exile, Claret remained faithful to his mission of defending the faith.
Devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary
One of the hallmarks of Saint Anthony Mary Claret’s spirituality was his deep devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. He entrusted his life and mission to her maternal care, seeing her as the sure guide to Christ.
This Marian devotion inspired the spirituality of the Claretians, who continue to bear the name of the Immaculate Heart in their official title.
For more on Marian devotion, see the Catechism of the Catholic Church, paragraphs 971–975.
Death and Canonization
After years of tireless service, Saint Anthony Mary Claret died in exile at the Cistercian monastery of Fontfroide, France, on October 24, 1870. His sanctity and missionary spirit soon became widely recognized.
Pope Pius XII canonized him in 1950, honoring him as a model bishop, confessor, and missionary. His feast is celebrated on October 24.
Conclusion
Saint Anthony Mary Claret’s life shines as a witness to missionary zeal, devotion to Mary, and courageous defense of the faith. As bishop, founder, writer, and confessor, he left behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire priests, religious, and lay faithful. His burning love for Christ and His Church reminds us that true holiness is active, courageous, and rooted in charity.
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