Clement Mary Hofbauer
Clement Mary Hofbauer was a Moravian hermit and later a Redemptorist priest, recognized as a co-founder of the congregation north of the Alps. He is remembered for his lifelong dedication to the poor and his significant missionary work, particularly in Vienna, where he is known as the "Apostle of Vienna."
- Feast Day
- March 15
- Century
- 19th century
- Country Or Region
- Austria
Key Facts
- ›He was born Johannes Hofbauer on December 26, 1751, in Tasovice, Moravia.
- ›He became a priest of the Redemptorist congregation and established it north of the Alps.
- ›He spent many years ministering to the poor and destitute in Warsaw, Poland.
- ›He was expelled from Poland and moved to Vienna, Austria, where he continued his pastoral work.
- ›His feast day is celebrated on March 15.
- ›He is considered a co-founder of the Redemptorist congregation.
Johannes Hofbauer, Klement Maria Hofbauer, Klemens Maria Hofbauer, Apostle of Vienna
About Clement Mary Hofbauer
Clement Mary Hofbauer (born Johannes Hofbauer, December 26, 1751 – March 15, 1820) was a significant figure in the Catholic Church, known for his role as a Moravian hermit, a priest of the Redemptorist congregation, and a dedicated caregiver to the poor.
Early Life and Formation
Born in Tasovice, Moravia, into a large family, Hofbauer's early life was marked by hardship, including the death of his father when he was six. Despite limited prospects, he pursued Latin studies with his local parish priest, indicating an early call to the priesthood. He later apprenticed as a baker in Znojmo and worked at a priory in Louka, where he gained experience in charitable work by feeding the needy.
Hermitage and Priesthood
After a period as a servant at the Louka priory, Hofbauer embarked on a life as a hermit. This path was interrupted by Emperor Joseph II's abolition of hermitages, leading Hofbauer to Vienna to work again as a baker. In 1782, after a pilgrimage to Rome, he resumed his hermit life near Tivoli, Italy, taking the name Clement Mary. He focused on prayer and assisting pilgrims, but a persistent call to the priesthood led him back to Louka to resume his studies. He eventually enrolled at the University of Vienna, navigating a challenging academic environment influenced by rationalism.
Establishing the Redemptorists North of the Alps
On March 19, 1785, Hofbauer and a companion were clothed in the Redemptorist habit and ordained priests. Summoned by their Superior General to establish the congregation north of the Alps, they faced obstacles in Hofbauer's homeland due to Emperor Joseph II's policies. They eventually moved to the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, later known as Poland, where they began their mission.
Ministry in Warsaw and Vienna
Hofbauer spent 21 years in Warsaw, a city marked by political turmoil and widespread poverty. He and his companions dedicated themselves to charitable work, establishing a refuge for homeless boys and an academy. They faced persecution and expulsion, particularly after Warsaw came under Prussian occupation and later French control.
In 1808, Hofbauer arrived in Vienna, where he spent the remaining years of his life. He served as a hospital chaplain, ministered to a small Italian church, and became chaplain to the Ursuline Sisters. He gained a reputation as a powerful preacher and a gentle confessor, particularly among students and intellectuals, influencing many to join the Redemptorists. His efforts contributed to a religious revival in Austria and thwarted plans for a national German church independent of Rome.
Veneration and Legacy
Clement Mary Hofbauer was beatified in 1888 by Pope Leo XIII and canonized as a saint in 1909 by Pope St. Pius X. His feast day is observed on March 15. He is remembered as the "Apostle of Vienna" and a co-founder of the Redemptorist congregation, celebrated for his unwavering commitment to the poor and his tireless efforts to spread the faith.
His mortal remains were transferred to Vienna's Redemptorist church in 1862.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where was Clement Mary Hofbauer born?
Clement Mary Hofbauer was born Johannes Hofbauer on December 26, 1751, in Tasovice, Moravia, which is now part of the Czech Republic.
Why is Clement Mary Hofbauer considered a co-founder of the Redemptorists?
He is considered a co-founder because he established the Redemptorist congregation north of the Alps, successfully expanding its reach beyond its Italian origins.
What was Clement Mary Hofbauer's main focus during his ministry?
He was widely known for his lifelong dedication to the care of the poor, particularly during a tumultuous period in Europe that left many destitute. He also focused on prayer and evangelization.
What is Clement Mary Hofbauer's connection to Vienna?
He is called the "Apostle of Vienna" and is a co-patron saint of the city. He ministered there for many years, caring for the wounded, serving in churches, and offering spiritual guidance to students and intellectuals.
When is Saint Clement Mary Hofbauer's feast day?
His feast day is celebrated on March 15. He is also listed on the Franciscan Saint of the Day calendar for March 16.
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