Claude Bernard priest

Father Claude Bernard (1588–1641) was a French Roman Catholic priest known for his work with prisoners and criminals, particularly those facing execution. Born on December 23, 1588, in Dijon, he came from a wealthy family but chose a life of poverty as a priest despite initial reluctance. After studying at the Jesuit College of Dole, he worked briefly in Paris’s social circles before a personal crisis and the death of a friend led him to pursue priesthood. Ordained by Bishop Pierre Le Camus, Bernard distributed his possessions to the poor during his first Mass and later inherited 400,000 livres, which he used for charitable works.

Bernard focused on aiding the poor, sick, and prisoners, attracting support from wealthy patrons and associating with figures like Jean-Jacques Olier and Vincent de Paul. He founded a seminary in Paris to train future priests. Notably, he popularized the *Memorare* prayer, claiming it miraculously cured him of illness through Mary’s intercession. Bernard died on March 23, 1641, in Paris, and was later the subject of a biography advocating for his canonization. His life was marked by dedication to the poor and devotion to the Virgin Mary.