Early Life and Spiritual Awakening
Born in São Paulo on August 15, 1939—the Feast of the Assumption—João Clá grew up contemplative and introspective. His childhood was defined by a deep sense of wonder, often spending hours gazing at the stars. A pivotal moment occurred at age five when he witnessed Eucharistic Benediction in a small chapel. The experience ignited a lifelong devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, which would become a cornerstone of his spirituality.
Formation and Intellectual Pursuits
Gifted academically, João Clá excelled in school and cultivated a passion for philosophy, psychology, and theology. His studies culminated in degrees in Law, Philosophy, Humanities, Psychology, Canon Law, and Theology from prestigious institutions, including the University of São Paulo and the Pontifical University of St. Thomas Aquinas. This intellectual foundation shaped his approach to evangelization, blending reason with faith.
Encounter with Dr. Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira
At 16, João Clá met Dr. Plinio Corrêa de Oliveira, a leading Catholic thinker. This encounter proved transformative, inspiring João Clá to embrace a life of apostolate and Marian devotion. For decades, he worked alongside Dr. Plinio, absorbing his teachings and strengthening his commitment to the Church.
Founding the Heralds of the Gospel
Following Dr. Plinio’s passing in 1995, João Clá discerned the need to anchor this spiritual movement firmly within the Church. In 1999, he founded the Heralds of the Gospel, which received pontifical approval from Pope John Paul II in 2001. The institution quickly expanded worldwide, revitalizing liturgy, assisting parishes, and reaching the marginalized through missions, hospital visits, and prison ministry.
His innumerous battles and conquests demonstrate a singular mission: to glorify God and renew the face of the earth through beauty, truth, and charity.
Priesthood and Institutional Growth
Ordained in 2005 alongside 14 deacons, Monsignor João Clá ushered in a new era for the Heralds. The sacraments became central to their apostolate, fostering spiritual renewal among countless souls. He later established clerical and feminine societies of apostolic life, approved by the Holy See in 2009, ensuring the continuity of this charism within the Church.
Legacy of Beauty and Evangelization
Monsignor João Clá envisioned evangelization through beauty—manifested in Gothic-inspired churches, monasteries, and sacred music. He founded academic institutes to form members intellectually and spiritually, reinforcing the harmony between faith and reason. His initiatives extended to digital evangelization, ensuring the Gospel reached families worldwide.
Final Years and Spiritual Offering
In 2010, after suffering a stroke, Monsignor João Clá embraced a hidden life of prayer and sacrifice. His withdrawal from active leadership became a profound act of love for the Church, watering the roots of the institution he built. Today, even after surrendering his soul on November 1, 2024, his legacy endures in every mission, every liturgy, and every soul touched by the Heralds of the Gospel.
A Mission Beyond Eternity
Monsignor João Clá’s life was exemplary for its untiring dedication and desire for the “will of God to be done on Earth as it is in Heaven”. From a contemplative child to a founder and spiritual father, his innumerous battles and conquests demonstrate a singular mission: to glorify God and renew the face of the earth through beauty, truth, and charity. His story is not merely history—it is a living testament to the enduring vitality of the Catholic Church.