This volume presents the principal spiritual teachings of Vincent de Paul and Louise de Marillac, the two Vincentian founders who left an indelible mark on the Church of France in the 1600s and beyond to the present. The collaboratively written, multi-part introduction locates Vincent and Louise within the framework of the spirituality of seventeenth-century France. This rich overview not only provides solid background information on each of the founders but also offers a true sense of their spirituality and practicality, insights into the complementary nature of their relationship, and an understanding of their legacy, which deeply influenced Elizabeth Ann Seton, Rosalie Rendu, D.C. and Frederick Ozanam. Following the insightful introduction are the original rules of the communities that Vincent and Louise founded, the Congregation of the Mission and the Daughters of Charity, commentaries on these rules, and a selection of other writings from both founders. All selections breathe the very spirit of the founders in terms of both the spiritual and the practical.Vincent and Louise teach much about the enduring gifts of simplicity, humility and love. Their own journey to the poor and--even more significantly--their Christ-centered reflection shed light on the possibility of a deeper response to the sufferings and isolation of the poor, vulnerable and marginalized in today's society.
St. Louise de Marillac
Feast Day:
Roman Rite Calendar - 03/15
Patron Of:
Sick, Widows, Orphans, Loss of Parents, Disappointing Children
Profile Though she considered a religious vocation from an early age, her ill health kept any house from taking her. She married Antony LeGras, an official to the queen, in 1611. Widowed in 1625. Spiritual student of Saint Vincent de Paul. With Saint Vincent, she founded the Daughters of Charity in 1642, receiving Vatican approval in 1655. Founded the Sister of Charity, took her vows in the order, and served as its superior until her death. Spiritual guide for laywomen's groups. Born 15 August 1591 at Meux, France Died 15 March 1660 at Paris, France of natural causes; body incorrupt Beatified
Profile Born to a peasant family. A highly intelligent youth, Vincent spent four years with the Franciscan friars at Acqs getting an education. Tutor to children of a gentlemen in Acqs. He began divinity studies in 1596 at the University of Toulouse. Ordained at age 20.
Taken captive by Turkish pirates to Tunis, and sold into slavery. Freed in 1607 when he converted one of his owners to Christianity.
Returning to France, he served as parish priest near Paris where he started organizations to help the poor, nursed the sick, found jobs for the unemployed, etc. Chaplain at the court of Henry IV of France. With Louise de Marillac, founded the Congregation of the Daughters of Charity. Instituted the Congregation of Priests of the Mission (Lazarists). Worked always for the poor, the enslaved, the abandoned, the ignored, the pariahs.
Born 1581 near Ranquine, Gascony near Dax, southwest France; the town is now known as Saint-Vincent-de-Paul, Landes, France