Saint John Mary Vianney (1786-1856) is the patron saint of parish priests. Also known as the Curé d'Ars, he struggled through seminary, almost failing, because academics were so difficult for him. He persevered, and the bishop ordained him. The bronze plaques on either side of his statue represent the 7 sacraments, which form the life and ministry of Catholic priests. Starting from the bottom right and traveling in a zig-zag pattern they are: Baptism (bottom right), Eucharist (second up on left), Confession (second up on right), Confirmation (third up on right), Holy Orders (third up on left), Marriage (top right) and Anointing of the Sick. The bottom left plaque is a boat symbolic of the Church from which these sacraments flow. Click the photo to zoom in.

Saint John Mary Vianney