January 6

André Bessette began his life as the eight child of 12, born to a poor family in Montreal, Canada. Described as a sick and frail child, André was unable to work following the early and tragic deaths of both his father and mother, and spent much time in church. He developed a deep and lasting devotion to the Patriarch of the Holy Family, St. Joseph.


André was accepted into the Congregation of the Holy Cross at age 25, due to his strong faith. However, his superiors had concerns regarding his near-constant illness and frailty. He was relegated to serving as the doorkeeper of the church, a position which allowed him to meet and interact with the congregation and pray. Throughout much of his life, André remained ill, and suffered tremendous pain. To him, these sufferings were an opportunity for reaching greater sanctity. When asked if he was in great pain during his final years, he replied, “Indeed I am, but I thank God for giving me the grace to suffer; I need it so much!”

André’s devotion to Saint Joseph resulted in many miraculous cures of the ill. He attended to the sick and lame, praying with them, and rubbing oil from a lamp that burned in the chapel on their wounds. As word of these miraculous cures spread, so did the stream of individuals who sought his comfort—both Christian and non-believers alike. Through his ministry to the sick, thousands came to know Christ and joined the church. “I do not cure,” he said again and again upon questioning. “St. Joseph cures.” In the end he needed four secretaries to handle the 80,000 letters he received each year.

Despite financial troubles, the Great Depression, and other difficulties, the basilica that André began building was finished—but not until after his death. The Oratory of Saint Joseph remains one of the largest basilicas in the world.

Saint André started small. He selflessly gave what he could to those in need, always relying on the help and blessings of the Holy Family. He inspires us to turn our gaze outward from ourselves, and care for others—to do the work of Jesus in the world around us.




Day 6 of 365
Prayer Intentions: Those who are sick; Those who serve others; Those who suffer