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Friend of Lepers - A Saint
6 Oct 2009
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A young Father Damien |
Catholic Mission joins with the international Catholic community in supporting the canonisation of Fr Damien, celebrating a life of sacrifice and servitude.
“Today we celebrate Father Damien’s life given for all who are excluded or ostracised. Father Damien was Christ to the people of Molokai,” said Martin Teulan, National Director of Catholic Mission.
As a young priest in 1873, Fr Damien left his home town in Brussels for the isolated island of Molokai, Hawaii, to work with leprosy patients. He described the island as “hell on earth”.
He lived and worked in the colony for 16 years until he died of leprosy.
“Father Damien dedicated his life to helping the people, amidst the most shocking conditions,” said Martin Teulan. “Today we are challenged to follow his example, and reach out to those who are rejected and forgotten.”
Despite now being curable, people with leprosy still face stigma and social exclusion. So do their children.
Catholic Mission supports the work of the Church internationally to help people living with leprosy and HIV/AIDS, another disease where sufferers are ostracised by their communities. The funding support enables priests, sisters and lay workers in these communities to provide medical care, shelter, rehabilitation, pastoral outreach, and a place of acceptance.
Mother Teresa showed great admiration for Fr Damien and supported his canonisation. When asked what miracle he had performed, Mother Teresa simply said, “Damien himself is a miracle.”
If you would like to read further about Fr Damien, visit www.fatherdamien.com.
During October 2009, you are asked to give generously to Catholic Mission to support those working with people affected by leprosy and HIV/AIDS worldwide.
