St. John Neumann, promoter of Catholic education in the U.S., is celebrated today

January 5, 2026 - 15:16

Each year on January 5th, the universal Church turns its attention to the legacy of St. John Neumann, a figure whose tireless work fundamentally shaped the growth of the Catholic faith in the United States during the 19th century.

Born in what is now the Czech Republic, Neumann felt a powerful call to missionary work in America. He was ordained in New York and later joined the Redemptorist order, eventually becoming the fourth Bishop of Philadelphia. His tenure was marked by extraordinary energy and pastoral innovation in a rapidly expanding immigrant Church.

Facing a severe shortage of priests and resources, St. John Neumann’s most enduring achievement was his passionate promotion of Catholic education. He understood that schools were vital for nurturing faith and community. He systematically established a widespread network of parish schools across his diocese, dramatically increasing their number. To staff them, he played a key role in inviting religious orders to the United States and was instrumental in founding a new congregation of religious sisters dedicated to teaching.

Beyond schools, he fostered the growth of parishes, built new churches, and introduced the Forty Hours Devotion to the country, deepening the Eucharistic life of the faithful. Canonized in 1977, St. John Neumann is remembered not only as a bishop and missionary but as the patron saint of Catholic education, whose practical vision helped lay a firm foundation for the Church in America. His feast day invites reflection on the importance of accessible faith formation for every generation.