One hundred years ago, on June 7, 1926, Archbishop (now Blessed) George Matulaitis, “Father Renovator” of the Marian Fathers, disembarked in New York City and made his way to Chicago, Illinois, to attend the 28th International Eucharistic Congress. It was his second visit to the United States; the first, in 1913, founded the first Marian parish in Chicago. Over the course of the next three months, Bl. George visited 92 Lithuanian parishes from Connecticut to Illinois and was welcomed with great fanfare by the immigrant communities, who decorated his automobile (above) and even painted his train violet, the episcopal color. His priest-secretary recalled, “In almost every community Archbishop Matulaitis visited, he delivered two sermons, in many three, in some four or more. Thus, during July and August, he gave a total of close to 200 sermons and conferences,” and administered the Sacrament of Confirmation to hundreds of young people. Marian Fathers’ Auxiliaries (lay supporters, the original Marian Helpers) in 20 parishes raised funds to help establish a General House for the Marian Fathers in Rome. Departing for home on Sept. 1, 1926, Bl. George died less than four months later, on Jan. 27, 1927, age 56. His feast day is Jan. 27. From the VAULTS 36 Marian Helper • Summer 2026 • Marian.org Learn more about Blessed George Matulaitis (Product code: GEOR)
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