Rev. Demaris

Father Demaris was a distinguished Professor of Theology and a dedicated Missionary of St. Joseph in Lyon, France, during the early 19th century. In 1801, amidst the tumultuous aftermath of the French Revolution—a period marked by the persecution of clergy and the suppression of religious practices—he authored a letter titled “Catholics Without a Priest.” This missive was directed to the faithful who found themselves deprived of priests and the sacraments due to the revolutionary upheaval.

In his letter, Father Demaris provided spiritual guidance and encouragement to Catholics facing the challenges of practising their faith without clerical support. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a strong personal relationship with God, fostering communal bonds among believers, and upholding the virtues of faith, hope, and charity. His counsel served as a beacon of hope, reinforcing the resilience of the faithful during a time when the Church’s structures were under severe threat.

Father Demaris’s contributions are a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Church and its teachings. His now famous letter continues to inspire those who seek to understand how to sustain their spiritual lives in the absence of traditional ecclesiastical support, reflecting a profound dedication to the perseverance of faith under adversity.