3 Prayers for the Feast of Saint John Mary Vianney

On 4 August, the Feast of Saint John Mary Vianney is celebrated. Also known as the Cure of Ars, he was born in France on 8 May 1786 and lived during a time shaped by the aftermath of the French Revolution.

Although he encountered difficulties during his preparation for the priesthood, he was ordained in 1815. Three years later, he was appointed to the small parish of Ars, where he devoted his life to the spiritual care of the faithful. His simplicity and welcome towards those seeking guidance and reconciliation became widely recognised.

His reputation spread far beyond the small French village, as he spent around 16 hours each day hearing confessions and encouraging conversion through mercy and a life of faith. Following his death on 4 August 1859, Pope Pius XI canonised him in 1925 and, four years later, declared him the patron saint of parish priests throughout the world. He remains remembered as an example of pastoral dedication and service to the Catholic Church.

Here are 3 prayers for the Feast of Saint John Mary Vianney!

1. Prayer to Saint John Mary Vianney

Saint John Mary Vianney, patron saint of priests, I ask for your intercession so that I may not give up on my goals despite difficulties, just as you did throughout your priestly life. Inspire me always to remain close to God. Amen.

Saint John Mary Vianney, pray for us!

2. Prayer for greater hope

O Saint John Mary Vianney, how much trust the crowds placed in your prayers! You could not leave your presbytery or your humble church without being surrounded by pleading souls who came to you in the same way they would have approached Jesus during His earthly life. And you, good Saint, encouraged them towards hope through your words filled with eternity. You, who always trusted completely in the Heart of God, obtain for me a deep and childlike trust in His adorable Providence. May hope in heavenly goods fill my heart with courage and help me always to observe the divine commandments. Amen!

3. Prayer for greater faith and courage

O Saint John Mary Vianney, you were born to a deeply Christian mother, from whom you received, along with faith, love for God and for prayer. Even as a small child, you were found kneeling before an image of Our Lady. Your soul was naturally drawn to the things above. Yet how much it cost you when you had to answer your vocation! How many obstacles and contradictions came from others! And then, how much you struggled and suffered to become the perfect Priest that you were! But your profoundly faithful spirit sustained you in all your battles.

O great Saint, you know the desires of my soul: I would like to serve God better, He from whom I have already received so many favours. Therefore, obtain for me greater courage and, above all, a stronger spirit of faith. Many of my thoughts, words and actions are of no use to my sanctification and salvation, because this supernatural spirit does not yet guide my life. Bring about this change from now on.