On Memorial of “Apostle of Mauritius” Blessed Jacques Laval, Catholic Bishop Calls for Solidarity With the Poor

Bishop Jean Michaël Durhône called on Christians to renew their commitment to the poor, the vulnerable, and those affected by social and historical injustices during a Mass on September 8. The Bishop of Port Louis made these remarks during a celebration marking the eve of the memorial of Blessed Jacques-Désiré Laval, a member of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit who died on September 9, 1864.

Bishop Durhône said the commemoration of the missionary, known as the Apostle of Mauritius, should inspire Catholics to respond to modern suffering rather than just remembering past ministry. He described the mission of Blessed Laval as a threefold challenge for believers: listening to the experiences of others, discerning the will of Christ, and caring for the poorest to help build a more just and fraternal society.

The Bishop noted that Blessed Laval did more than proclaim the Gospel by taking time to meet Black people and learn their language. He suggested that the pilgrimage serves as an opportunity for the Church to walk together through history by listening to God and paying attention to those struggling to move forward.