EM's patron purple hero is John Vianney, a French Catholic priest born on the 8th of May, 1786. John Vianney was a struggling learner who battled through his preparatory studies and failed many times before eventually being ordained a priest.
Soon Vianney became known for his ability to direct souls through confession, and people began to come from other villages and eventually, other countries to see him. Today, Saint John Vianney is the patron Saint of all priests; a leader and an inspiration to 'Purple Heroes' through the example of his life.