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Feast Day: March 4
Birth: October 3, 1763
Death: March 4, 1825
Blessed Marielouiseélisabeth De Lamoignon De Dolé De Champlâtreux, also known as Mère Saint-Louis or Mother Saint Louis, was born on 3 October 1763 in Paris, France. She was the wife of Chrétien Fran√ßois de Lamoignon de Basville, a prominent politician during the time of the French Revolution. Tragically, her husband was killed during the revolution, leaving Marielouiseélisabeth widowed with five children to care for. Despite this great loss, she remained steadfast in her faith and dedicated herself to the service of others.
Marielouiseélisabeth and her husband had five children together, though only two of them survived into adulthood. One of their children went on to become the Prime Minister of France in the 1830s, a testament to the family's influence and accomplishments. However, Marielouiseélisabeth's own path led her to a different calling - a life of caring for the poor and abandoned.
On 25 May 1803, Marielouiseélisabeth founded the Sisters of Charity of Saint Louis in Vannes, France. This religious congregation was established with the primary purpose of educating and providing for the needs of impoverished and neglected girls. The Sisters of Charity of Saint Louis embodied Marielouiseélisabeth's commitment to serving those in need, particularly young girls who were often overlooked by society.
Throughout her life, Marielouiseélisabeth demonstrated unwavering dedication and compassion for the less fortunate. Her tireless efforts and selfless service earned her recognition as a woman of heroic virtue. On 16 January 1986, Pope John Paul II officially recognized her virtues, declaring her venerable.
Marielouiseélisabeth De Lamoignon De Dolé De Champlâtreux passed away on 4 March 1825 in Vannes, Morbihan, France, at the age of 61. She died of natural causes and was laid to rest in the cathedral of Saint Peter the Apostle in Vannes, where her memory continues to be honored.
As a beloved figure in the Catholic Church, Marielouiseélisabeth De Lamoignon De Dolé De Champlâtreux, or Mère Saint-Louis, remains an inspiration for her unwavering commitment to education, social justice, and serving the marginalized. Her life and legacy continue to be celebrated, and she serves as a shining example of virtue and compassion for all.