St. John of Matha

St. John of Matha was a French priest and founder of the Trinitarian Order, devoted to ransoming Christians enslaved by non-Christians during the Crusades, living a life of charity and mission.

St. John of Matha was born on June 23, 1160, in Faucon, Provence, in the south of France. Born into a noble family, he was given an exceptional education and pursued studies in theology and philosophy. His deep faith and intellectual gifts led him to the priesthood, and he was ordained in Paris. From early on, John exhibited not only a profound piety but a deep compassion for those suffering under injustice and captivity.

According to tradition, while celebrating his first Mass, John had a vision of Christ holding the hands of two chained captives—one a Christian and the other a Moor—signifying his future mission: the redemption of Christian captives. Moved by this divine message, he renounced all worldly pursuits and dedicated his life to the service of the poor and enslaved.

Alongside St. Felix of Valois, whom he met in a hermitage in Cerfroid, John founded the Order of the Most Holy Trinity for the Redemption of Captives, commonly known as the Trinitarians, around the year 1193. The order’s mission was to collect alms and use the funds to ransom Christians who had been captured and enslaved by Muslim raiders and pirates during the time of the Crusades. The Trinitarians would not only negotiate for the captives’ release but often accompany them back to their homes, offering spiritual and physical care.

John traveled extensively across Europe and into North Africa, negotiating the freedom of prisoners and acting as a mediator. The distinctive white habit with a blue and red cross of the Trinitarians became a familiar symbol of hope for many. In a time of great religious conflict and strife, John's work was a powerful act of charity, peace, and reconciliation.

His order received papal approval from Pope Innocent III in 1198. Under John’s leadership, the Trinitarians redeemed thousands of captives and expanded across Europe. Despite the hardships of travel, disease, and constant risk of imprisonment himself, John continued this mission until his death.

St. John of Matha died on December 17, 1213, in Rome. He was buried there, though his relics were later transferred to Madrid, Spain. His canonization was confirmed in 1666 by Pope Alexander VII, and he is honored today as the founder of one of the Church’s most compassionate and courageous missions.

Feast Day

17-12-1213

Birth Date

23-6-1160

Died Date

17-12-1213

Canonised Date

21-10-1666

Madrid, Spain

St. John of Matha, liberator of captives and servant of the poor, grant us the courage to defend the oppressed and the grace to serve Christ in all people. Pray for our deliverance and peace. Amen.
ST. JOHN OF MATHA

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ST. JOHN OF MATHA

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