St. Peter Fourier

November 30, 1565–December 9, 1640

“Gave a new direction to religious life, insisting that ministry be integral to the community they founded.”

Prologue, You Are Sent, p. 18

Peter Fourier became a Canon Regular of St. Augustine and was noted for his holiness in the midst of a lax congregation. He had received his education from the Jesuits and spiritual direction from his Jesuit uncle strengthened him. However, he chose not to join the Jesuits because he wanted to serve in a poor parish. As a parish priest in Mattaincourt, France, he established a credit union and provided legal aid to the poor. He was revered as a holy pastor.