St. Damien of Molokai, born Jozef De Veuster on January 3, 1840, in Tremelo, Belgium, is renowned for his compassionate ministry to people with leprosy (Hansen’s disease) on the Hawaiian island of Molokai. His life is a testament to selfless service, sacrifice, and faith.
Read the full St Damien of Molokai novena on the novena page. You can also learn more about novenas here.
What Did St Damien of Molokai Do?
Jozef was the youngest of seven children in a devout Catholic family. He initially worked on the family farm but felt called to religious life. He joined the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, taking the name Damien upon his first vows in 1859. After theological studies, he desired to serve as a missionary.
In 1864, Damien was sent to Hawaii, where he was ordained a priest shortly after his arrival. He served on various islands, building churches, preaching, and providing pastoral care.
In the mid-19th century, leprosy was a significant problem in Hawaii. The government isolated those with the disease on the Kalaupapa Peninsula of Molokai to prevent its spread. The conditions in the colony were dire, with poor sanitation, lack of medical care, and spiritual neglect.
In 1873, Fr. Damien volunteered to minister in Kalaupapa. His work there included medical and spiritual care, providing comfort, the sacraments, and wound treatment.
He also organized the colony, built homes, churches, and schools, and fostered a sense of dignity and hope.
St. Damien drew attention to the plight of leprosy patients, appealing for better resources and care.
Despite the stigma associated with leprosy, Damien immersed himself in the lives of those he served. He referred to the community as We lepers, identifying fully with their suffering. St. Marianne Cope came to help him with his work.
In 1884, Damien himself contracted leprosy but continued his work. His declining health didn’t diminish his spirit; he worked tirelessly until the end. He died on April 15, 1889, at the age of 49.
Damien’s sacrifice and love inspired generations. He was beatified in 1995 by Pope John Paul II and canonized as Saint Damien of Molokai by Pope Benedict XVI on October 11, 2009.
He is the patron saint of leprosy patients, outcasts, and those with HIV/AIDS.