saintcarda quiet companion
Baroque portrait of Damien of Molokai
FEAST · MAY 10

DAMIEN OF MOLOKAI

Patron of lepers, HIV/AIDS patients, outcasts, the rejected, Hawaii.

Saint Damien of Molokai, born Jozef De Veuster in Belgium in 1840, was a member of the Congregation of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary. In 1873, he volunteered to minister to the leprosy patients forcibly exiled to the remote settlement of Kalaupapa on the Hawaiian island of Molokai. He not only provided spiritual care but also built houses, churches, and coffins, and tended to the physical and medical needs of the community, eventually contracting the disease himself. He served there until his death from leprosy in 1889. For Catholics, Saint Damien is a profound model of self-sacrificing charity and a reminder of the inherent dignity of every person, especially those marginalized by society. He is the primary patron of those with leprosy, HIV/AIDS patients, and all who are outcast.
A PRAYER TO DAMIEN OF MOLOKAI

Heavenly Father, through the intercession of Saint Damien of Molokai, we ask for your mercy and compassion. Grant strength and consolation to all who suffer from illness, isolation, or rejection. Inspire in us the courage to see your face in the forgotten and to serve them with selfless love, as your servant Damien did. May we never turn away from those in need. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Write your own prayer to Damien

Type any intention. Saintcard chooses a patron, writes a personal prayer, and shapes a baroque card for you to keep or send.

Bring an intention
← ALL SAINTS