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Feast Day: July 13
Birth: October 2, 1756
Death: July 1, 13
Blessed Marieanne Depeyre, also known as Saint Frances, was an Ursuline nun who met a tragic end during the turbulent period of the French Revolution. Born on 2 October 1756 in the village of Tulette, located in the Dråme region of France, she dedicated her life to serving God and her community.
Marieanne Depeyre entered the Ursuline Order, a religious institute founded by Saint Angela Merici, which focused on education and the care of young girls. With a strong spirit of faith and compassion, she embraced the teachings of her Order and became renowned for her piety and devotion.
As the French Revolution unfolded, religious persecution and violence against the Catholic Church intensified. The Ursuline Order faced significant challenges, and the convent where Marieanne resided was not spared from the hostility targeted towards religious institutions. The Revolution aimed to dismantle the power and influence of the Church, leading to the confiscation of Church property, suppression of religious orders, and ultimately the martyrdom of countless faithful individuals.
Marieanne Depeyre, along with her fellow nuns, remained steadfast in their faith despite the dangers they faced. In the face of imminent threat, they continued their religious practices and dedicated themselves to prayer, serving as a guiding light for others in the community.
On 13 July 1794, in the town of Orange, Vaucluse, France, Marieanne faced the ultimate sacrifice for her faith. She was guillotined, martyred for her unwavering dedication to Catholicism during a time of great turmoil. Her martyrdom stood as a poignant testament to her firm belief in God and the teachings of the Church.
Recognizing her exemplary witness of faith and her courageous stance during the French Revolution, Pope Pius XI declared Marieanne Depeyre venerable on 19 March 1925. Just a few months later, on 10 May 1925, Pope Pius XI bestowed the honor of beatification upon her, elevating her to the status of Blessed.
Although limited information is available about the specific details of Marieanne Depeyre's life, her martyrdom and steadfast devotion to her faith serve as an inspiration to believers around the world. Her memory is honored annually on 13 July, and she is also commemorated on 9 July as one of the Martyrs of Orange, who bravely stood against the forces that sought to eradicate Catholicism during the French Revolution.
Through her unwavering commitment to God and willingness to sacrifice her life, Blessed Marieanne Depeyre serves as a shining example of loyalty, faith, and resilience, reminding us of the power of conviction even in the face of adversity. Her life and martyrdom continue to inspire individuals to stand firm in their beliefs and remain faithful to their religious callings, even in the most challenging circumstances.