Feast Day June 26
Blessed Yaacoub Capuchin was born on February 1, 1875, in Ghazir, the third of fourteen children.
Well educated, Blessed Yaacoub was sent to Egypt to teach Arabic at Saint Mark’s Institute. There he encountered a deceased Franciscan monk on the road and said, “A priest has died and a new priest is born.”
Upon returning to Lebanon, Blessed Yaacoub became a monk at Saint Anthony Convent of the Capuchin Fathers in Khashbau, Ghazir. He was ordained a priest on November 1, 1901.
He served as a preacher and missionary dedicated to the poor. He built institutions including 163 village schools, monasteries, and hospitals that provided education and healthcare to people of all conditions, ages, races, and religions.
Following the start of World War I in 1914, many friars were forced to leave Lebanon. Blessed Yaacoub was entrusted with the Capuchin Order’s mission in the country and assisted in preserving all Latin Rite communities.
Blessed Yaacoub suffered from leukemia and eczema. He died on June 26, 1954, holding a crucifix in his hand.
Recognising his philanthropy, life of virtue, perseverance in suffering, and service to communities across Lebanon during times of poverty and hardship, Pope Benedict XVI beatified Blessed Yaacoub in Beirut’s Martyrs’ Square on June 22, 2008.
O Lord, You who inspired Your servant Abouna Yaacoub Al Kaboushi to submit to the inspirations of the Holy Spirit, the flaming love for Your Cross, and deep devotion to Your Mother the Virgin Mary, who performed many miracles in Your Church.
Make us follow his footsteps in serving the poor, the sick in body and mind, and priests worn out by age and labour in Your vineyard.
May all our works be pleasing in Your sight and for the glory of the Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.