Biography

Father Francis Xavier Seelos was born on January 11, 1819, in Füssen, Bavaria, which is now part of modern-day Germany. He was the sixth of 12 children, and his parents instilled in him a deep faith and a desire to serve the Lord.
As a young man, Francis Xavier Seelos studied at the University of Munich and later at the University of St. Stephen in Austria. He joined the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, also known as the Redemptorists, in 1842, and was ordained to the priesthood two years later. He began his ministry in Bavaria, where he served as a pastor and missionary.
 
In 1849, Father Seelos volunteered to go to the United States, where the Redemptorists had established a mission, to work among German-speaking immigrants. He arrived in New York City and was immediately struck by the poverty and hardship that he saw in the city's slums. He decided to dedicate his life to the service of the poor and spent several years ministering in the Redemptorists communities in New York, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, and elsewhere around the United States.
 
Father Seelos soon became known for gentle and compassionate nature, his deep spirituality, and his tireless dedication to those in need. He often went out of his way to offer help and would visit hospitals and prisons, spending time with the sick and dying. He was also known for his powerful preaching, and many people were drawn to him due to his charismatic speaking abilities.
 
One of Father Seelos' most important contributions to the Church was his work among the black communities wherever he was serving. At a time when racial prejudice was rampant in America, he made a special effort to minister to the spiritual needs of his black neighbors, often putting himself at risk to do so. He was known for his compassion and his willingness to speak out against racism and discrimination.
 
On October 5, 1867, Father Seelos contracted yellow fever while ministering to the sick in New Orleans. He died just a few days later, on October 7, at the age of 48. His death was mourned by people of all faiths and races across the USA. Father Seelos' life was marked by a deep spirituality and a strong devotion to the Eucharist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. He was beatified by Pope John Paul II on April 9, 2000, and is considered Blessed.

Prayer

O Lord, my strength, and my Redeemer, let the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing in Your sight. I offer to You the grace You have bestowed on Your humble missionary, Blessed Francis Xavier Seelos.
 
May I have the same joyful vigor that Blessed Seelos possessed during his earthly life to love you deeply and live faithfully your gospel. Amen.