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For Children Saints in Action Saint John Neumann (1811-1863) John Neumann was born in Bohemia and came to the United States to be ordained a priest. Able to speak nine languages, John's passion was education. As the Bishop of Philadelphia, he walked from parish to parish, helping to start Catholic schools. In eight years, Philadelphia's two Catholic schools grew to one hundred! Here's a story about Bishop John Neumann and his walking shoes. THE BISHOP'S SHOES The bishop of Philadelphia loved being outdoors, walking when he could have easily ridden in a carriage. But even he looked happy to shut his door against the chilly rain. "Good evening, Father Michael," the bishop smiled. They were meeting with some wealthy businessmen in just a few minutes to discuss the orphanage. "I've just returned from a visit with a poor German family," the bishop added. "Are the businessmen here?" "Yes, your Excellency," answered the younger man. At five feet two inches, the bishop was no taller than a twelve-year old boy. Bishop Neumann spoke nine languages, loved the poor, and worked hard for the Church. But, to Father Michael, he didn't look or act much like a bishop. "We don't mind waiting as you change your clothes, your Excellency," Father Michael said. Bishop Neumann now stood in brighter light, beneath the hall lamp. His black cassock was wet. It was also wrinkled and frayed at the cuffs. One front button was dangling by a thread. Bishop Neumann looked down at his clothing. He looked back at the well-dressed priest. "I'm sorry, Father," the bishop said. "I don't have a second cassock." "You could at least change your shoes!" sputtered Father Michael. "I could," admitted the bishop, "but I would have to change my right shoe to the left foot, the left shoe to the right foot, for I own only this one pair. The businessmen will have to accept me as I am. God does.
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