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Feast Day: May 8
Birth: May 3, 1632
Death: May 8, 1668
Blessed Marie-Catherine de Saint-Augustin, also known as Catherine Symon of Longprey, Marie-Catherine Simon de Longpré, Marie-Catherine Symon de Longprey, or Mary Catherine of Saint Augustine, was born on 3 May 1632, in Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte, Normandy, France. She was raised primarily by her grandparents, who instilled in her a deep piety and a strong sense of compassion for the poor and sick.
At the age of twelve, Marie-Catherine entered the Augustinian canoness regular sisterhood, joining the Hospitaller Sisters of Mercy on 24 October 1644. She took the name Marie-Catherine de Saint-Augustin and dedicated her life to serving in the Håtel-Dieu, the hospital operated by the Order in Bayeux, France.
In 1648, Sister Marie-Catherine volunteered to assist in the establishment of a new hospital, Håtel-Dieu de Québec, in New France. However, during her journey to Quebec, she fell seriously ill. It was during this critical time that she fervently prayed for the intercession of the Blessed Virgin Mary, attributing her subsequent cure to the Virgin Mary's intervention.
Upon arriving at the new hospital in Quebec, Sister Marie-Catherine took on the role of treasurer and tirelessly cared for the physical and spiritual well-being of the patients. She went beyond her duties by learning the languages of the indigenous First Peoples in order to better serve and care for them. Sister Marie-Catherine also acted as the novice mistress for the new Augustinians brought to the Order through the Sisters' work.
Despite her demanding responsibilities, Sister Marie-Catherine found solace in prayer and penance, offering her spare time in support of the hospital's mission. Her tireless dedication earned her recognition as one of the six founders of the Catholic Church in Canada, highlighting her significant contributions to the early development of the Church in the region.
Blessed Marie-Catherine de Saint-Augustin passed away on 8 May 1668, at the Håtel-Dieu de Québec in Québec City, New France. She died of natural causes, leaving behind a lasting legacy of compassion, devotion, and service to the sick and marginalized.
In recognition of her exemplary life, Sister Marie-Catherine was venerated on 9 June 1984 by Pope John Paul II, who declared her heroic virtues. She was subsequently beatified on 23 April 1989 by Pope John Paul II, affirming her position as an esteemed figure within the Catholic Church.
Today, the relics of Blessed Marie-Catherine de Saint-Augustin are enshrined at the Centre Catherine-de-Saint-Augustin, located next to the Håtel-Dieu de Québec. Her life continues to inspire and serve as a testament to the transformative power of faith, love, and selfless service to others.