 |
Isaac JoguesJesuit Catholic priest, missionary and martyr
Date of Birth: 10.01.1607
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Early Life and Vocation
- Mission to the Huron and Algonquin Nations
- Tortures and Captivity
- Escape and Return to France
- Return to Canada and Martyrdom
- Canonization and Legacy
Early Life and Vocation
Isaac Jogues was born in Orleans, France. In 1624, he joined the Society of Jesus in Rouen. Driven by a missionary zeal, he embarked on a journey to New France in 1636.
Mission to the Huron and Algonquin Nations
Father Jogues' mission targeted the Huron and Algonquin nations, who were allies of the French. However, in 1642, his canoe was captured by a Mohawk war party. He, along with his companions (Guillaume Couture and the future martyr René Goupil) and several Christian Hurons, fell into captivity.
Tortures and Captivity
The Mohawks subjected their captives to brutal tortures. Father Jogues endured the amputation of several fingers. He was then enslaved, during which time he attempted to teach the Mohawks about Christianity.
Escape and Return to France
With the help of Dutch traders, Father Jogues managed to escape. He made his way to Manhattan and eventually returned to France, where he was greeted by both astonishment and admiration.
Return to Canada and Martyrdom
Despite his injuries, Pope Urban VIII granted Father Jogues special permission to celebrate Mass. He returned to Canada within months. In 1645, a peace treaty was signed between the Iroquois, Huron, Algonquin, and French. However, in 1646, while serving as an ambassador to the Mohawk territory, Father Jogues and another Jesuit, Saint Jean de Lalande, were captured and accused of witchcraft. They were brutally killed by a faction of the tribe on October 18, 1646.
Canonization and Legacy
Together with other Jesuit martyrs, Isaac Jogues was beatified in 1925 and canonized in 1930 by Pope Pius XI. The "Canadian Martyrs" or "North American Martyrs," as they are known, are celebrated on September 26th (in Canada and among traditionalists) or October 19th (according to the revised calendar).
