Walking with Claret. First Moment; Childhood

First Moment: Childhood
On December 23, 1807, in Sallent, Barcelona, Spain, Anthony was born to John Claret and Josephine Clará, the fifth of eleven children. From a very tender age Anthony gave signs of a sharp intelligence and a soft heart.
From the age of five, he would frequently ponder on eternity and was deeply touched by that “forever, forever, forever,” and this thought would later serve as a deep motivation for converting sinners.
As he grew, he attentively attended Mass, made frequent visits to the Most Blessed Sacrament and daily recited the rosary. His dream was to become a priest and an apostle.
When looking back on our lives, we may realize that our childhood left a lasting impression on us. It is in our youth that we discover our first loves and are filled with great ideals. Despite the twists and turns in life, these formative years can serve as a reminder of divine providence in the midst of adversity, failure, joy and gratitude.
Let us pray,
Loving God, as we follow in the footsteps of St. Anthony Mary Claret, may we also be filled with the wonder of eternity and strive for greater holiness.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
St. Anthony Mary Claret, Pray for us.