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Feast Day: July 12
Birth: July 12, 1753
Death: July 1, 12
Blessed Jeannemarie De Romillon, also known as Giovanna Maria di S. Bernardo de Romillon or Sister Saint Bernard, was born on July 12, 1753, in Bollène, Vaucluse, France. She belonged to the Ursuline religious order and dedicated her life to serving God and educating young women.
Jeannemarie entered the Ursuline convent at a young age and quickly became known for her deep spirituality and commitment to her vocation. She embraced the principles of the order, which focused on providing education to girls and guiding them in their spiritual growth.
Unfortunately, the peaceful life that Jeannemarie and her fellow nuns enjoyed was drastically disrupted during the French Revolution. The revolutionary authorities fiercely suppressed religious institutions, leading to the arrest and persecution of many clergy and religious figures.
In the midst of this turmoil, Sister Saint Bernard remained steadfast in her faith. Along with her fellow Ursuline sisters, she refused to renounce her religious life and teachings. This unwavering commitment to her beliefs ultimately led to her martyrdom.
On July 12, 1794, Jeannemarie De Romillon was guillotined in Orange, Vaucluse, France, on her forty-first birthday. Her execution served as a powerful testimony to her dedication to Christ and her refusal to compromise on her spiritual commitment.
Recognizing her martyrdom and recognizing her as a model of faith and virtue, Pope Pius XI declared her venerable on March 19, 1925, through a decree of martyrdom. Just two months later, on May 10, 1925, Pope Pius XI beatified Jeannemarie De Romillon, bestowing upon her the title of Blessed.
Blessed Jeannemarie De Romillon continues to be venerated by the faithful, particularly on her feast day of July 12, which coincides with the anniversary of her birth and martyrdom. Additionally, she is honored as one of the Martyrs of Orange, whose feast day is celebrated on July 9.
Although further details of her life and works remain unknown, her martyrdom serves as a reminder of the enduring faith and courage displayed by countless individuals during the tumultuous period of the French Revolution. Blessed Jeannemarie De Romillon's legacy inspires all those who face adversity for their beliefs to remain steadfast in their convictions, trusting in the strength and grace of God.