Saint Isaac Jogues

1607 - 1646

October 19

Joined the Jesuits at Rouen, France. Studied philosophy. Priest. Missionary to New France (Canada), starting in Quebec and working among the Hurons. This was a rough assignment - not only were the living conditions hard, but the locals blamed the "Blackrobes" for any disease, ill luck, or other problems that occurred where they were. Captured in 1642 by the Mohawks, tortured for 13 months, he taught the Faith to any who would listen, and finally escaped. Recuperated in France, but returned to the New World to continue his work with the natives. Martyred with fellow Jesuit priest Saint John de Brebeuf and several lay missionaries while on a peace mission to the Iroquois. One of the North American Martyrs.

Born:  1607 at Orleans, France

Died:  tomahawked and scalped by an Iriquois chief on 18 October 1646 at Ossernenon in what would become upstate New York, USA

Canonized:  29 June 1930 by Pope Pius XI

Patronage:  Americas, Canada

Readings
My confidence is placed in God who does not need our help for accomplishing his designs. Our single endeavor should be to give ourselves to the work and to be faithful to him, and not to spoil his work by our shortcomings.

Saint Isaac Jogues

source:  http://www.catholic-forum.com/saints/sainti02.htm