Viatorians around the world pause every Sept. 1 to remember their founder, the Venerable Fr. Louis Querbes, who formed the congregation in 1831 in Vourles, France. Yet, ever since 2019, their prayers for his intercession have intensified.
International flags drape the grave of Fr. Louis Querbes in Vourles, France, representing all the countries where Viatorians have advanced his charism.
Fr. Querbes passed away Sept. 1, 1859 at the age of 66. He is buried in the cemetery at Vourles, where his gravestone describes him as a “priest of great zeal, selfless and admirable charity.”
The Venerable Fr. Louis Querbes
In 2019, Pope Francis advanced Fr. Querbes’ cause for sainthood by declaring him the Venerable Louis Querbes. In announcing the news, Fr. Robert M. Egan, CSV, Superior General, said that Vatican officials had found Servant of God Louis Querbes, to have lived in an uncommon but heroic degree, all the virtues of faith, hope, charity, fortitude, justice, prudence and temperance, as well as the evangelical councils.
Fr. Egan added that the decree by Pope Francis now opens the way to beatification.
“However, for this we will need the recognition of a miracle, through the intercession of Venerable Fr. Louis Querbes,” he said. “Let us join our prayers, in seeking the intercession of Fr. Querbes.”
Traditionally, Viatorians remember their founder in many ways, from prayer services and remembering deceased Viatorians, to gathering together as regions and celebrating the commitments of associates. They also promote Fr. Querbes and his charism to a larger audience through social media. Here is a sampling:
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- Province of Chile
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- ViatorianUSA
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- Colegio San Viator in Tunja, Colombia
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- Province of Spain