Blessed José Gregorio Hernández Cisneros, affectionately known as the “doctor of the poor,” continues to inspire people worldwide with his exemplary life of holiness and selfless service. Pope Francis himself highlighted the Venezuelan blessed during a General Audience at the Vatican, praising him as a model of apostolic zeal. This reflection on Doctor José Gregorio Hernández, beatified in 2021, underscores the enduring relevance of this layperson who dedicated his life to serving others, especially the most vulnerable.
While the Catholic Church requires another miracle for canonization, the devotion to Doctor José Gregorio Hernández remains profound, particularly in Venezuela. Many faithful turn to him in prayer, seeking his intercession for healing and various needs. This deep-rooted veneration speaks volumes about the impact of his life and work.
The Early Life and Faith of Doctor José Gregorio Hernández
Born in 1864, Doctor José Gregorio Hernández’s faith journey was significantly shaped by his mother. He himself acknowledged her profound influence, stating, “My mother taught me virtue from the cradle, she made me grow in the knowledge of God and gave me charity as a guide.” Pope Francis emphasized the crucial role mothers often play in transmitting faith and Christian values to their children, echoing the Blessed’s own testimony.
Charity became the guiding principle, the “polar star,” of Doctor José Gregorio Hernández‘s life. He was known as a kind and radiant individual, possessing a cheerful demeanor and remarkable intelligence. These gifts led him to excel in academia, becoming a respected doctor, university professor, and scientist. However, his true calling lay in serving others, particularly those in need.
“Doctor of the Poor”: A Life Dedicated to Service
Doctor José Gregorio Hernández earned the title “doctor of the poor” because of his unwavering commitment to treating the less fortunate. Unlike many who seek wealth and worldly success, he was drawn to the spiritual richness of the Gospel. Pope Francis noted that Doctor José Gregorio Hernández saw Jesus in the faces of the poor, the sick, migrants, and all those who suffered. This profound empathy fueled his dedication to providing them with medical care and compassion.
His selfless service did not go unnoticed. Doctor José Gregorio Hernández received immense recognition and love from the Venezuelan people. They affectionately call him “saint of the people,” “apostle of charity,” and “missionary of hope,” reflecting the deep gratitude and admiration for his contributions. This “success,” as Pope Francis pointed out, was not sought after by the doctor in the worldly sense but was bestowed upon him by the people he served so devotedly.
Apostolic Zeal and Availability to God’s Plan
Driven by an “inner fire” and a desire to serve God and neighbor, Doctor José Gregorio Hernández explored vocations in religious life and the priesthood. Despite several attempts, health challenges prevented him from pursuing these paths. However, his physical limitations did not deter him; instead, they seemed to deepen his sensitivity to the suffering of others. He embraced Providence, allowing God’s plans to unfold in his life.
Pope Francis highlighted this as a key aspect of apostolic zeal – not rigidly adhering to personal aspirations, but remaining open and “available to God’s designs.” Doctor José Gregorio Hernández exemplified this by embracing what the Pope called the “priesthood of medicine,” using his profession as a ministry to alleviate the pain and suffering of those around him.
His enthusiasm and zeal, according to Pope Francis, stemmed from his deep faith and “intimacy with God.” Doctor José Gregorio Hernández was a man of prayer, drawing strength and inspiration from his relationship with the divine. This spiritual foundation underpinned his tireless service and unwavering commitment to others.
An “Apostle of Peace” and Enduring Legacy
Doctor José Gregorio Hernández felt a strong calling to be an “apostle of peace,” driven by his faith and love for Christ. Tragically, his life of service was cut short in his early fifties. After attending Mass and on his way to deliver medicine to a patient, he was struck by a car. He passed away in the hospital, uttering the name of Our Lady.
Pope Francis reflected on the poignant nature of his death, occurring “on a road while doing a work of mercy, and in a hospital, where he had made his work a masterpiece of good.” This final act of service perfectly encapsulates the essence of Doctor José Gregorio Hernández’s life.
Pope Francis encourages everyone to reflect on their own response to Jesus in the poor and needy, using Doctor José Gregorio Hernández as an example. He challenges us to engage with the significant social, economic, and political issues of our time, inspired by the Blessed’s commitment to action and service. Doctor José Gregorio Hernández remains a powerful model for Christians today, demonstrating the importance of “getting their hands dirty” by helping those in need and actively working towards a more peaceful world. He truly embodies the call to be close to others and to reflect Christ’s love through tangible acts of compassion and service.
