John Vianney

John Vianney (8 May 1786 – 4 August 1859) was a French Catholic priest and member of the Third Order of Mary who is often referred to as the Curé d'Ars ("the parish priest of Ars"). Canonized a saint in 1925, he is known for his priestly and pastoral work in his parish in Ars, France, resulting in the radical spiritual transformation of the community and its surroundings. Catholics note his saintly life, mortification, persevering ministry in the sacrament of confession, and ardent devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. His feast day is 4 August. He is the patron saint of parish priests.