Saint of the Day: St. Louise de Marillac | March 15, 2024

Saint Louise de Marillac, a pivotal figure in the history of Catholic charity work, was born on August 12, 1591, near Meux, France. Her life was marked by profound spirituality, humility, and a deep commitment to serving the poor and sick. Here are key moments and significant contributions of her life:
1. Early Life and Education: Louise lost her mother at a young age and was raised by her father, Louis de Marillac. After his death, she was cared for by her aunt, a religious at Poissy, and received education in various arts and philosophy.
2. Marriage and Widowhood: Against her initial inclination towards religious life, Louise was advised to marry Antoine Le Gras, a secretary in the court of Maria de' Medici. They had one son. After her husband's death in 1625, Louise devoted herself to spiritual and charitable works.
3. Meeting St. Vincent de Paul: This was a turning point in her life. Under Vincent's guidance, Louise found a way to merge her spiritual aspirations with social service. They worked closely to serve the poor and marginalized.
4. Founding the Daughters of Charity: In collaboration with St. Vincent de Paul, Louise established the Daughters of Charity in 1633. This community was revolutionary as it was the first non-cloistered religious community for women in the Catholic Church. They served the sick and poor outside convent walls.
5. Expanding the Work of Charity: Louise was instrumental in expanding the work of the Daughters of Charity throughout France. They took care of the sick in hospitals, helped the orphaned, and assisted the needy.
6. Writing the Formal Rule: Louise authored the formal Rule for the Daughters of Charity in 1642, which was later approved by the Vatican in 1655. This rule outlined the principles and practices of their service to society.
7. Death and Legacy: Louise continued her dedicated work until her death in Paris on March 15, 1660. Her legacy is carried on by the Daughters of Charity, who continue to be active in social service worldwide.
8. Canonization and Patronage: Louise de Marillac was canonized by Pope Pius XI in 1934. She was declared the patroness of social workers by Pope John XXIII in 1960, a fitting honor considering her life's work.
9. Feast Day: Her feast day is celebrated on March 15th, commemorating the day of her death and her eternal contribution to the Church and society.
Saint Louise's life exemplifies the Christian values of charity, humility, and service. Her partnership with St. Vincent de Paul and her founding of the Daughters of Charity marked a significant advancement in the Church's approach to social work and care for the needy
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Here are two references where you can find more information about the life of Saint Louise de Marillac:
1. Catholic Online - St. Louise de Marillac: This resource offers a comprehensive overview of her life, her contributions, and her role as a co-founder of the Daughters of Charity alongside St. Vincent de Paul. It provides insights into her personal journey, her spiritual growth, and her lasting impact on Catholic charitable work. Visit Catholic Online's page on St. Louise de Marillac.
2. Vatican - Canonization of Saint Louise de Marillac: The Vatican website provides detailed information, including the official account of her canonization. This is a valuable source for understanding her significance in the Church, and the reasons she was canonized. The website typically includes details of her life, her virtues, and the impact of her work. Explore the Vatican's information on St. Louise de Marillac.
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On March 15th, the Roman Catholic Church celebrates the feast days of several saints in addition to Saint Louise de Marillac. Some of these saints include:
1. Saint Aristobulus: Considered one of the Seventy Disciples mentioned in the New Testament, he is believed to have been the first bishop in Britain.
2. Blessed Artemide Zatti: An Italian Salesian brother known for his service and care for the sick.
3. Saint Clement Maria Hofbauer: A Redemptorist priest known for his missionary work and reform efforts.
4. Saint Leocrita: A martyr from the time of Moorish rule in Spain.
5. Saint Mancius: A holy hermit who lived in the fourth century.
6. Saint Matrona: Known for her life of prayer and penance.
7. Saint Menignus: A martyr of the early Church.
8. Saint Monaldus of Ancona: A hermit renowned for his piety and miracles.
9. Saint Nicander: A martyr who suffered for his faith.
10. Saint Raymond of Fitero: Founder of the Order of Calatrava, dedicated to protecting pilgrims.
11. Blessed William Hart: An English martyr of the Reformation era.
12. Pope Zachary: Known for his wisdom and piety, he was Pope from 741 to 752.
These saints represent a diverse group of individuals who lived their faith in various ways, from missionary work and pastoral care to martyrdom for their beliefs.

[@user-tn2wl6el7o]

❤❤❤❤❤❤amen

[@brianeduardo1234]

Intros always too long

[@baymark1]

nice video. i just noticed one error. She was declared patroness of social workers by Pope John XXIII in 1960 not Pope John Paul XXIII because there has never been a JP XXIII.

[@LivingTheWordToday]

Thank you for pointing that out. We missed that.