Saint Louise de Marillac

Because Louise de Marillac (1591 - 1660) grew up in French boarding schools, she was highly educated. She was attracted to the cloistered life, but because of ill health, was denied entrance. Eventually her uncle arranged a marriage for her. When her son was twelve years old, her husband, Antony, died. Louise began seeing Vincent de Paul for spiritual direction, and a new road opened for her. Vincent’s work for the poor, and his gracious manner of service to them, attracted Louise. She assisted Vincent in his ministry. As other women joined her in her work, the Daughters of Charity were formed. This community was different from others of that day, since the members were not cloistered and so were better able to care for orphans, the sick, the slaves, the poor, and the elderly. In a time when the needy were often neglected or mistreated, Louise and her community offered loving and respectful service to them. Let us be present to others in the same loving way today.