1651–1711
Saint Joseph Vaz, 1651–1711
January 16
Saint Joseph Vaz was born in India. Most people in India are Hindu. Joseph’s family was Catholic. He wanted to share the Gospel with everyone. He used his gifts to help other people know God. He went to faraway places to teach about Jesus and build churches. Joseph decided to become a missionary and went to Ceylon (now Sri Lanka), even though the government there didn’t allow priests in the country. Joseph helped bring others there to talk about Jesus and serve God's People.
Discuss: What are some things you can do to help others know God?
Saint Joseph Vaz is the patron of Sri Lanka. As a young person he did very well in school. He studied philosophy and theology at a Dominican academy. He was offered the post of bishop of Ceylon, but chose to stay a missionary. Because of this, he is often shown with a bishop’s mitre beside him, but not on his head. Saint Joseph traveled barefoot when he could.
Activity
Using Our Gifts
Verbal/Linguistic
Saint Joseph used his gifts to help other people know God. In this activity, you and your child will help each other determine your gifts and ways to use them.