ALLEMAND, JEAN-JOSEPH. — Apostle of youth, founder of the Oratory (patronages) in France, born in Marseille on 27 Dec. 1772, died there on 10 Apr. 1836. A cleric during the Revolution, he assisted and aided persecuted priests in their ministry wherever possible. Ordained priest in 1798, his first aim in that period of relative peace was to devote himself entirely to the religious revival of youth by establishing and promoting Sunday and feast-day gatherings, evening meetings, conferences, and recreation centers. In May 1799 he founded “l'œuvre de la jeunesse” with a core of chosen young men united in a pious association; by 1820, 400 zealous followers enthusiastically accompanied him. In his spiritual direction, he emphasized the necessity of obedience, humility, prayer, and mortification. Abbé Timon-David continued A.’s work.
ALLEMAND
Bibl.: Biographies: F. Brunello, Vie du serviteur de Dieu, J. J. A., Paris 1852; J. P. L. Gaduel, Le directeur de la jeunesse ou la vie et l'esprit du serv. de Dieu, J. J. A., Paris-Lyon 1867; L. Desers, Un initiateur des œuvres de jeunesse au début du XIXe siècle, l'abbé A. in Revue du Clergé français, 68 (1911), pp. 697-707; F. Gibon, s. V. in DHG, II, cols. 594 sq. Romualdo Souarn.