Blessed Arnold Rèche, F.S.C. (1838-1890)

Born Nicholas to a poor French family, he grew up with strong religious values and a fear of sin. Considered the only serious student in his cathechism class, he taught catechism to the younger children. However, when he moved to the Charlesville as a young adult, he began drifting to a more secular life. Coachman for a wealthy family. Mule driver to a contractor building a local church. His aunt, who lived nearby, convinced him to make some changes; he began to attend classes conducted by the Brothers of the Christian Schools, and Nicholas returned to a life of active and intense prayer. Joined the LaSalle Brothers in 1862 at age 28, taking the name Brother Arnold, and making his final vows in 1871. Treated the wounded in the trenches during the Franco-Prussion War, and was awarded the bronze cross for his work. Taught at the Brothers boarding school at Rheims, France; noted as a mediocre teacher of classroom topics, but an outstanding teacher of Christian doctrine. Novice director for the congregation in 1877, a move that got him out of the class rooms where he felt he was a failure. Director general of the house at Courlancy from March 1890 till his death a few months later. The Cause for his canonization began in 1938. He was beatified in 1987.
(From Saints.sqn.com)