aint Clement Mary Hofbauer (1751–1820) was a Redemptorist priest and missionary, often called the "Second Founder of the Redemptorists" for his work in expanding the congregation beyond Italy. Born on December 26, 1751, in Tasswitz, Moravia (now in the Czech Republic), Clement grew up in a devout but poor family. Orphaned at a young age, he worked as a baker to support himself while pursuing his studies.
Clement felt a strong call to the priesthood but faced financial and educational challenges. After working as a hermit and making several pilgrimages, he eventually completed his theological studies in Rome. In 1784, he joined the Redemptorists, founded by St. Alphonsus Liguori, and was ordained a priest.
Clement’s mission took him to Warsaw, Poland, where he established the first Redemptorist community outside Italy. He became known for his tireless pastoral work, especially among the poor, and his promotion of Eucharistic devotion. Despite political turmoil and suppression of religious orders, Clement continued to spread the Redemptorist charism throughout Europe.
He moved to Vienna, Austria, in 1808 and became a popular preacher and confessor, influencing people from all walks of life, including intellectuals and political leaders. Clement worked to rebuild the Church’s spiritual life in the face of secularism and anti-religious sentiment.
St. Clement died on March 15, 1820. He was canonized by Pope Pius X in 1909 and is honored as the patron saint of Vienna. His feast day is celebrated on March 15.