Today, the Church honors St. Josaphat, a courageous bishop and peacemaker who gave his life to heal the divisions within the Church. Known as the “Apostle of Unity,” he tirelessly worked to bring Orthodox and Catholic Christians together.
His martyrdom stands as a powerful witness to the price of peace and fidelity to truth.
Prayer of the Day
Prayer to St. Josaphat for Christian Unity
O Saint Josaphat,
you were a shining light of courage and love,
who gave your life for the unity of Christ’s Church.
Intercede for us today, that all Christians may be one,
in faith, hope, and charity.Strengthen our hearts against division and hatred.
Grant us the grace to work for peace in our families,
our communities, and our world.Through Christ our Lord. Amen.
St. Josaphat, Apostle of Unity — pray for us!
Mass Reading of the Day
First Reading: Titus 3:1–7
Paul urges the faithful to live peacefully, showing kindness and gentleness to all, remembering that salvation comes not from deeds but through the mercy of God.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 23:1b–6
“The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.”
A reminder that God leads us to peace, refreshment, and eternal life.
Gospel: Luke 17:11–19
Jesus heals ten lepers, but only one—a Samaritan—returns to give thanks. Gratitude and faith bring wholeness.
Saint of the Day: St. Josaphat (1580–1623)
Bishop and Martyr
St. Josaphat was born in what is now Ukraine and became a Basilian monk devoted to restoring unity among divided Christians. He was made Archbishop of Polotsk and became known for his humility, reform, and courage. Despite fierce opposition, he preached tirelessly about reconciliation and mutual love among believers.
His efforts stirred anger among those who opposed unity with Rome, and on November 12, 1623, he was brutally martyred by a mob. Yet even in death, his blood became a seed for peace — soon after, many were reconciled to the Catholic Church.
St. Josaphat’s life remains a call to bridge divisions and embody Christ’s prayer “that they may all be one.”
10 Facts About St. Josaphat
- Born around 1580 in Volodymyr, in modern-day Ukraine.
- Baptized with the name John Kuncevyc.
- Joined the Basilian Order at age 20.
- Deeply devoted to the Divine Liturgy and Scripture.
- Became Archbishop of Polotsk in 1617.
- Worked to unite the Orthodox and Catholic Churches.
- Promoted reform among clergy and monastics.
- Was martyred by a mob in Vitebsk in 1623.
- Canonized by Pope Pius IX in 1867.
- Patron saint of Christian unity and ecumenism.
