Jean de Mata Catholic saint, one of the founders of the Trinitarian order Date of Birth: 22.06.1150 Country: France

1. Biography of Saint Jean de Matha
2. Establishment of the Trinitarians
3. Work of the Trinitarians
4. Sainthood

Biography of Saint Jean de Matha

Saint Jean de Matha, a Catholic saint and one of the founders of the Order of the Most Holy Trinity, was born on June 23, 1150 in Provence, France. He received his education in Exe and later studied theology in Paris. In 1197, Jean de Matha was ordained as a priest. According to legend, during his first Mass, he had a vision of an angel with a red and blue cross on his chest, blessing two slaves who knelt before him. Jean interpreted the vision as a sign that he should dedicate his life to the salvation and assistance of Christian captives. He decided to establish a brotherhood that could undertake this mission. With this purpose in mind, Jean de Matha met with the hermit Saint Felix of Valois, who approved Jean's idea, and together they traveled to Rome in the same year.

Establishment of the Trinitarians

On December 17, 1198, Pope Innocent III granted preliminary approval for the establishment of the new monastic order dedicated to the Most Holy Trinity. The order was called the Trinitarians, and its motto was "Glory to You, O Trinity, and freedom to the captives." The order's coat of arms became a red and blue cross. In 1209, the order's rules were finally approved by the Holy See.

Work of the Trinitarians

The Trinitarians collected funds through donations to ransom Christian captives. The first slaves were redeemed by the order from Muslim captivity in 1201. The Trinitarians continued their mission of freeing and assisting Christian prisoners throughout the years, becoming known for their dedication and compassion.

Sainthood

In 1666, Saint Jean de Matha was canonized and officially recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church. His feast day is celebrated on February 8th and December 17th. Saint Jean de Matha's commitment to the liberation of Christian captives and his founding of the Trinitarians have left a lasting impact on the Catholic faith and the history of charitable work.