How much do you know about St. Isaac Jogues? Do you know what countries are in his patronage, or why his canonization was historic?
A French missionary who lived during the 17th century, St. Isaac Jogues passionately sought to share the Gospel, even as he faced torment and death. As we celebrate his memorial on October 19, we invite you to discover five facts about his life and legacy, and where you can find him portrayed in the Basilica.
1. St. Isaac Jogues was one of the earliest missionaries to New France.
Born in Orleans, France, in 1607, St. Isaac Jogues spent his early career studying philosophy and teaching literature in his home country. Yet God soon called him to a life beyond the academy, in a land across the ocean: as a missionary to New France (now Eastern Canada and the Midwest United States). After being ordained as a Jesuit priest in 1636, he traveled to Quebec to minister to the Indigenous people.
2. He lived in captivity for over a year.
A few years into his ministry in New France, Isaac and his companions were captured by the Iroquois. During their captivity, they faced beatings and torture, and many of Isaac’s companions were killed. But the threats of torture and death were not enough to stop Isaac from evangelizing to the Iroquois during this time; he even baptized several of them before escaping on a Dutch ship and traveling back to France.
3. He returned to the Iroquois less than five years after escaping.
While others would have quavered at the prospect of returning to their tormentors, Isaac found he was deeply burdened by the Iroquois’ need for the Gospel. Knowing that a second mission could be a death sentence, Isaac returned in 1646, remarking:
“My heart tells me that, if I am the one to be sent on this mission, I shall go but I shall not return. But I would be happy if our Lord wished to complete the sacrifice where he began it.”
Within the year, Isaac and his fellow missionary Jean de Lalande were killed by a group of Mohawks.
4. St. Isaac Jogues is one of the first North American Martyrs recognized by the Church.
On June 29, 1930, Pope Pius XI canonized Isaac Jogues along with seven other Jesuit missionaries who were in his company, including the surgeon René Goupil. They are known as “The North American Martyrs.”
5. He is the patron saint of Canada and the Americas.
You can find him portrayed in the Basilica in the west façade, the Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel, and the Second Coming mosaic.
Sources:
“American Saints and Blesseds,” USCCB.
“Isaac Jogues,” Loyola Marymount University.
“Saints Isaac Jogues, Jean de Brébeuf, and Companions,” Franciscan Media.