Saint19th century · Feast May 10

St Damien of Molokai

Also known as Jozef De Veuster, Father Damien, Damien of Molokai

Priest

Missionary of Molokai

A Belgian priest who chose to live permanently among people forcibly isolated with Hansen’s disease at Kalaupapa.

A note on content. This profile is a prototype draft. Devotional traditions, historical facts and uncertain traditions will be clearly identified once entries are reviewed. We do not publish invented quotations.

The story of their life

A Belgian priest who chose to live permanently among people forcibly isolated with Hansen’s disease at Kalaupapa. Hawaiian authorities separated families after diagnosis, creating a community marked by abandonment and resilience.

Historical context

Hawaiian authorities separated families after diagnosis, creating a community marked by abandonment and resilience.

Defining moments

Volunteering for Hawaii
Entering Kalaupapa
Building community infrastructure
Advocating for dignity
Developing Hansen’s disease

Faith and spirituality

Accompaniment, shared life and refusal to treat illness as a reason for abandonment.

Why this saint matters today

A strong companion for healthcare chaplains, people facing stigma and long-term community workers.

Patronage and intercession

People turn to St Damien of Molokai in matters of:

People with Hansen’s disease

Hawaii

People facing illness stigma

A prayer

God of grace, through the intercession of St Damien of Molokai, guide us in truth, courage and love. Amen.

Timeline

Sources and further reading

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints.html
https://www.liturgyoffice.org.uk/Calendar/

Source-quality status: unverified prototype