Feast Day June 26
Blessed Yaacoub Al Kaboushi was born on February 1, 1875, in Ghazir, Lebanon, as the third of fourteen children.
Well educated, Blessed Yaacoub was sent to Egypt to teach Arabic at Saint Mark’s Institute. There, he encountered the body of 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 entered the Capuchin Order at the Monastery of Saint Anthony of the Capuchin Fathers in Khashbau, Ghazir. He was ordained a priest on November 1, 1901.
He served as a preacher and missionary, dedicating his life to the poor. He established numerous institutions, including 163 village schools, monasteries, and hospitals, providing education and healthcare to people of all backgrounds, ages, cultures, and religions.
Following the outbreak of World War I in 1914, many friars were forced to leave Lebanon. Blessed Yaacoub was entrusted with the mission of the Capuchin Order in the country and helped preserve the Latin Rite communities.
Blessed Yaacoub suffered from leukemia and eczema. He died on June 26, 1954, holding a crucifix in his hand.
Recognising his charitable works, virtuous life, perseverance through suffering, and service to communities across Lebanon during times of poverty and hardship, Pope Benedict XVI beatified Blessed Yaacoub in Martyrs’ Square, Beirut, on June 22, 2008.
O Lord, You inspired Your servant Abouna Yaacoub Al Kaboushi to follow the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to embrace the burning love of Your Cross, and to show deep devotion to Your Mother, the Virgin Mary, through whom he performed many miracles in Your Church.
Help us to follow his footsteps by serving the poor, the sick in body and spirit, and priests who are weary from age and labour in Your vineyard.
May all our works be pleasing in Your sight and offered for the glory of the Most Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Amen.