May 29
Joseph Gérard (1831–1914)
Missionary
A French Oblate missionary, José Gérard dedicated more than sixty years to evangelization in southern Africa, especially among the Basotho people of Lesotho.
Biography
After little initial fruit among the Zulus, he persevered in a new mission and waited years before receiving the first catechumen. He learned the language, visited the sick and elderly on foot or on horseback and formed communities with deep love for the Eucharist and Mary. His perseverance was summed up in a conviction: to love people despite everything and to love them always.
Practical advice
Today, patiently resume an apostolic task that seemed sterile and approach a family personally.
Example of
Missionary zealEvangelizationCare for the sick