John Berthier was a French Catholic priest and missionary born in Châtonnay in 1840. After joining the Missionaries of La Salette and being ordained in 1862, he dedicated his life to religious education and spiritual formation. He is most recognized for establishing a religious institute in Grave, Netherlands, specifically designed to assist men who felt called to the priesthood later in life. His theological writings focused on achieving holiness by following the example of the Holy Family.
Life and work
Following his seminary studies in Grenoble, Berthier joined the Missionaries of La Salette. In 1895, he founded the Institute for Late Vocations, which later became known as the Missionaries of the Holy Family. This congregation, which eventually spread to numerous countries, was created to support older candidates for the priesthood. Throughout his ministry, he produced thirty-six theological and ascetical works.
Veneration
The Catholic Church recognizes Berthier as a venerable figure. In 2018, Pope Francis issued a decree acknowledging his heroic virtues, a significant step in the process toward beatification. His religious order maintains a spiritual connection to La Salette through a specific devotion to Our Lady, Reconciler of Sinners.