Saint Jane Frances de Chantal (1572-1641)
for August 12
Saint Jane Frances de Chantal was born into a noble family and married the Baron de Chantal when she was 20. They enjoyed a fruitful marriage and had several children. Tragically, the baron was killed in a hunting accident when Jane was only 28. Heartbroken, she took a personal vow of chastity and moved her family in with her cruel father-in-law. During this hard time in Jane's life, she met Saint Francis de Sales, who became her spiritual advisor and close friend. Francis and Jane established the Order of the Visitation of Our Lady, which was created specifically for widows and laywomen who wanted to live in a religious community, but did not want the full life of other religious orders. Jane Frances de Chantal was canonized in 1767 and is the patron saint of forgotten people, widows, and against in-law problems.
Read more about Saint Jane Frances de Chantal (1572-1641)
Image via Wikipedia
Reflection
Great good can come from tragedy, even when a situation seems hopeless. Saint Jane Frances de Chantal lost her beloved husband, and endured the cruel treatment of her father-in-law, but ended up touching the lives and hearts of many when she established the Order of the Visitation of Our Lady. If you have experienced a tragedy in your life, ask God for help in dealing with any feelings of hurt, grief, or anger that you might have.
Prayer
God, our rock, we know you are there for us. You are strong and ever-present. Be with us in these times of change. Strengthen and encourage us. We ask this in Jesus’ name. (Taken from "Take Ten: Daily Bible Reflections for Teens.")
