Claude de la Colombière was a 17th-century French Jesuit priest, theologian, and writer. Born in Saint-Symphorien-d'Ozon, he entered the Society of Jesus in 1658 and later served as a renowned preacher. He is most widely recognized for his role as the spiritual director to Margaret Mary Alacoque, whom he supported in her devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Despite facing imprisonment in England due to political tensions, he remained a dedicated member of his order until his death in Paray-le-Monial in 1682.