August 13
Alberto Hurtado Cruchaga (1901–1952)
Jesuit priest
Chilean Jesuit priest, Alberto Hurtado combined an intense life of prayer with the concrete defense of the poor, workers and homeless children.
Biography
Orphaned since childhood, he experienced precariousness and studied thanks to a scholarship. After being ordained he dedicated himself to youth formation and the social apostolate. He founded the Hogar de Cristo to offer shelter, food and opportunities to those who lived on the streets, and promoted the social conscience of Catholics and the organization of workers. Suffering from cancer, he received death with the expression that summed up his confidence: "Happy, Lord, happy."
Practical advice
Look around you today and identify a person without support; Offer concrete help, not just a good intention.