Walking with Claret. 14th Moment: Decline of His Days

Fourteenth Moment: Decline of His Days
On July 23, 1870, Archbishop Anthony arrived in Prades, France. Despite his deteriorating health and knowing death was near, he was welcomed by a community of young missionaries in exile. With persecution still at hand, he was forced to flee and sought refuge in a nearby monastery. His health continued to decline, and on October 4, he suffered a brain hemorrhage. Four days later, he received his last sacraments and made his religious profession as a Son of the Heart of Mary. On the morning of October 24, surrounded by fellow religious, Archbishop Anthony Mary Claret passed away peacefully at the age of 62. His body was buried in the monastic cemetery with an inscription that read, "I loved justice and hated iniquity. Therefore, I die in exile." Archbishop Anthony’s life ended in exile, but his legacy lives on.
As we journey through our lives, we inevitably make personal choices that clash with the expectations of others. When others look down on us for our decisions, it becomes a test of our resolve to stay true to our values. While some will choose to distance themselves from us because of those choices, we are fortunate to have a few genuine friends who stand by our side. Peace truly abounds in the presence of these steadfast friends until the end of our days, but also when we are unwavering in our commitment to our convictions.
Let us pray,
God of loving friendship, your friend St. Anthony Mary Claret died surrounded by brothers despite being in exile. As we navigate life's choices and face judgment from others, grant us the strength to stay true to our values. Bless us with steadfast friends who stand by our side, nurturing loyal companionship, and may we find lasting peace and unwavering commitment in their presence.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
St. Anthony Mary Claret, Pray for us.
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