February 7
Guido of Montpellier (c. 1160–1208)
confessor of faith
A French layman from a wealthy family, Guido de Montpellier opened a house-hospital for the poor, sick, orphans and abandoned children before 1190.
Biography
He gathered a community of men and women consecrated to the service of those who suffered and placed the work under the protection of the Holy Spirit. Pope Innocent III recognized his charity and also entrusted him with the Roman hospital of Santo Spirito. Guido taught to look at the sick as the Lord and to understand assistance not as a favor, but as a service due to their dignity.
Practical advice
Treat a dependent person with respect today: ask them their preference and avoid talking about them as if they were not present.
Example of
FaithCharityCare for the sick