Today, June 8, is the memorial of Saint Jacques Berthieu.
Jacques Berthieu, born in France in 1838, was one of seven children. Early in life he already acknowledged his vocation. He joined the Jesuits in 1873 and later became a missionary to Madagascar.
He became a passionate missionary, bringing many to God’s fold. His mission became threatened by citizens who became antagonistic towards the French.
He was kidnapped during a rebellion. The opportunities to escape were there, but Jacques insisted on staying with his mission and leading the people to God.
In 1896, he was made to choose between his faith and his life. Jacques answered, “My son, I’m sorry, that I cannot do. I prefer to die.” Almost instantly, the rebel tribesmen beat him up until he died.
Pope St. Paul VI beatified him in 1965. Pope Benedict XVI canonized Fr. Jacques in 2012.