Birth: December 11, 1821 – Munstergeleen, Netherlands
Death: January 5, 1893 – Dublin, Ireland
Beatified: October 16, 1988 by Pope John Paul II
Canonized: June 3, 2007 by Pope Benedict XVI
Feast Day: January 5
Patronage: The sick, healing ministries and the people of Ireland
St. Charles Houben, born in the Netherlands, joined the Passionist Congregation in 1845 and took the religious name Charles of St. Andrew. He was sent to Ireland during a time of great suffering and poverty and became known as a gentle, humble priest with a powerful gift for comforting the sick and suffering.
Assigned to Mount Argus Monastery in Dublin, he spent decades ministering to thousands who came to him for healing, prayer and confession. Though he faced language barriers and periods of misunderstanding, his deep compassion and holiness drew people to him. He is especially remembered for his devotion to the Passion of Christ and his quiet, tireless care for the poor and afflicted.