PERE JACQUES RESPLENDENT IN

By Francis J. Murphy

Pere Jacques is remembered today for his extraordinary ability to bridge the differences of class, ideology, nationality, and religion that often divide the human family. Proud son of devout working-class parents, with a lifelong commitment to social justice, he becaume director of an elite preparatory school for sons of the most prominent families of France. He was a member of the Discalced Carmelites, a religious order dedicated to prayer and solitude, yet spent himself tirelessly in the service of others. A fervent Catholic priest, he was admired and trusted by non-believers and Communist fellow-prisoners in the concentration camp of Mauthausen. He was a Christian who died as a result of his efforts to harbor Jewish youths during World War II. Both the State of Israel and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum have honored him as a rescuer, one of the "Righteous Among the Nations."

This biography retraces the entire career of Pere Jacques from his humble beginnings to its heroic conclusion, carefully situating him within the religious and social context of his times. Also included are prevviously unpublished excerpts from his writings, and an extensive bibliography. Pere Jacques: Resplendent in Victory offers an informative and compelling introduction to an truly great man, who cause for canonization was opened in 1990.