Brother Andre Vocational Club of Audrey Veldman VTC
Brother André Bessette was a Canadian lay brother of the Congregation of Holy Cross. He was born in 1845 and died in 1937. He is renowned for his profound devotion to St. Joseph and for conducting a ministry of healing and hospitality for the poor and sick. He was canonized a saint in October 2010 by Pope Benedict XVI. In his lifetime, he was recognized as the first canonized saint man of Montreal.
BR. ANDRE VOCATIONAL CLUB
- Humility and becoming little: Br. André famously said, “I do not heal, St. Joseph heals,” directing praise away from himself and toward God. He taught that one does not need high status, intelligence, or wealth to make a significant impact on the world.
- Hospitality and Compassion: He is known for his warm welcome, often saying, “I am a friend of the poor and the sick.” He had empathy for suffering, spent hours listening to others, and taught that one cannot truly love God without loving the neighbor.
- Childlike Faith and Trust in God: He firmly believed in God’s goodness and encouraged simple, deep trust in divine providence. He was devoted to prayer, frequent confession, and daily communion.
- Perseverance and Hard Work: Despite frail health, he worked long hours attending to the sick. He never became bitter about menial tasks or rejection, but remained faithful and committed.
Members of this club are challenged to live these virtues as inspiration for a faithful and committed holy life as married people, religious, or priests. In brief, the club aims to promote good virtues necessary for vocations in religious life, holy matrimony, and priesthood.
