Saint Damien of Molokai was born Joseph de Veuster in a small town in Belgium. After years of working on his family’s farm, he began to study for the priesthood. He took the name of Damien after a fourth-century physician and martyr. While he was still in the seminary, he volunteered for missionary work. His order sent him to Honolulu, where has was ordained in 1864. Share the story of Saint Damien with the children and their families. The Church honors Saint Damien on May 10.
Image credit: Alain PINOGES/CIRIC
