George J. Wigley

Died in Rome, 20 January, 1866. By profession he was an architect, but subsequently devoted himself to journalism in Paris. He was one of the band of laymen who surrounded Frederick Ozanam and who founded with him the Society of St. Vincent de Paul . At Ozanam's suggestion he wrote some letters to "The Tablet" describing the aims and the work of the new Society. Lucas, editor of "The Tablet", then wrote some articles on the same subject and in January, 1844, the English branch was formed, Wigley, who was then living in London, becoming one of the original thirteen members. In or about 1860 Wigley took a leading part in forming both in England and in France the Peterspence Association for assisting the Holy Father. Shortly after Pius IX bestowed on him the Cross of St. Gregory the Great. He met his death in attending one of the St. Vincent de Paul cases in Rome, a Protestant English sailor. Wigley nursed him with great devotion, and had him received into the Church on his death-bed, and then falling ill of the same disease went to the hospital of the Brothers of St. John of God where he died.

Rosaries by Catholic Online Shopping

Multi Sapphire Crystal Faceted Set Sterling Silver Rosary

@ $181.97

14 Karat Gold Filled 5mm Ruby Swarovski Rosary Bracelet

@ $152.99 $130.04 SAVE 15%

We ask you, humbly: don't scroll away.

Hi readers, it seems you use Catholic Online a lot; that's great! It's a little awkward to ask, but we need your help. If you have already donated, we sincerely thank you. We're not salespeople, but we depend on donations averaging $14.76 and fewer than 1% of readers give. If you donate just $5.00, the price of your coffee, Catholic Online School could keep thriving. Thank you.

Help Now >