Bl. Valentin Paquay

  Posted on December 30, 2023  by admin  No comments

Born: 17 November 1828 in Tongres, Limburg, Belgium as Louis Paquay

Died: 1 January 1905 in Hasselt, Limburg, Belgium of natural causes

Beatified: 9 November 2003 by Pope John Paul II

Also known as Jan Louis Paquay, Joannes Ludovicus Paquay, Valentijn Paquay, Valentine Paquay, Valentinus Paquay

The fifth of eleven children born to Hendrik Paquay and Anne Neven, a pious couple who raised all their children to have a strong connection to the Church. Louis studied literature at the College in Tongres. He entered Saint Trond Seminary in 1845. When his father died unexpectedly in 1847, Louis left school to join the Franciscans, making his vows on 4 October 1850 and taking the name Valentine. He then resumed his studies, and was ordained on 10 June 1854. Assigned to the monastery of Hasselt, Belgium where he lived for the rest of his life.

He served as sub-prior and prior of the house. Served as a Provincial Definitor from 1890 to 1899. Noted, eloquent and popular preacher. He wrote constantly. Had the gift of reading a visitor’s consience, and became sought after confessor and spiritual director. Valentin had a strong devotion to the Holy Eucharist, and promoted frequent communion. He also had a great devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, and encouraged it as well, especially to his fellow Franciscans. He prayed the Way of the Cross each day.