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Feast Day: July 16
Birth: May 27, 1743
Death: July 1, 16
Blessed Dorothéemadeleinejulie De Justamond, also known as Sister of the Heart of Mary, was an Ursuline nun who was martyred during the French Revolution. She was born on 27 May 1743 in Bollène, Vaucluse, France. Her life and devotion to her faith serve as an inspiration to Catholics around the world.
Blessed Dorothée De Justamond entered the Ursuline Order, a religious congregation dedicated to education, in her early years. She lived a life centered on prayer, service, and teaching as a means to spread the message of God's love. Blessed Dorothée lived during a tumultuous time in France, marked by social and political upheaval.
As the French Revolution gripped the nation, religious persecution intensified. The revolutionaries sought to eliminate the influence of the Catholic Church and suppress religious orders. Despite the danger, Blessed Dorothée chose to stay true to her faith and continue her religious calling.
In July 1794, Orange, Vaucluse, where Blessed Dorothée resided, was particularly targeted for its Catholic population and religious institutions. The Ursuline convent in Orange became a symbol of opposition to the revolutionaries, and the sisters were subjected to increasing threats and harassment.
On 16 July 1794, Blessed Dorothée De Justamond was martyred, falling victim to the guillotine, a method of execution commonly used during the French Revolution. She, along with her fellow sisters, witnessed to their faith and remained steadfast even in the face of certain death.
The courageous and unwavering faith of Blessed Dorothée De Justamond and her companions stood as a testament to their commitment to God and their religious calling. In recognition of their martyrdom, Pope Pius XI declared their veneration on 19 March 1925, and they were officially beatified on 10 May 1925.
Blessed Dorothée De Justamond's life and martyrdom serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless individuals during times of religious persecution throughout history. Her story continues to inspire Catholics to remain steadfast in their faith and to bravely bear witness to Christ's teachings, even in the face of adversity and danger. On her feast days, 16 July and 9 July as one of the Martyrs of Orange, the faithful remember her heroic witness and seek her intercession.