Blessed Nicolas Barré

Biography

Blessed Nicolas Barré was born on October 21, 1621, in Amiens, Somme, France. He received his education from the Jesuits before joining the Minims of Saint Francis of Paola at the young age of 19. Despite being a deacon, he had the opportunity to teach philosophy.

After his ordination to the priesthood, Blessed Nicolas Barré became the director of the library at the convent of Place Royale in Paris, France. His eloquence and passion for preaching earned him a reputation as a noted preacher. However, his life took a turn when he fell ill, and he was sent first to the friary in Amiens and then to Rouen, both located in France.

During his time of illness and reflection, Blessed Nicolas Barré came to the realization that a lack of education was the root cause of many social evils. He firmly believed that young people who were unable to fit into society would often fall into troubled circumstances. Motivated by this awareness, he embarked on a mission to address this issue and started an educational movement.

In numerous parishes, small general classes were established under Blessed Nicolas Barré's initiative. These classes eventually led to the development of trade schools and apprentice programs. His dedication to education and his commitment to public education prompted him to found a community of men and women teachers. These individuals, known as the Charitable Teachers, were devoted to the cause of educating the less privileged.

Moreover, Blessed Nicolas Barré's ideas and teachings greatly influenced Saint John Baptist de la Salle, who consulted with him multiple times. Saint John Baptist de la Salle employed Nicolas's thoughts when he founded the Brothers of the Christian Schools, an educational order dedicated to the provision of quality education.

Apart from his educational endeavors, Blessed Nicolas Barré was renowned as a spiritual director, teaching others the importance of abandoning oneself to faith. He emphasized the significance of complete surrender to God and trust in Divine Providence.

During his lifetime, Blessed Nicolas Barré also founded various religious congregations. These include the Sisters of the Infant Jesus, Sisters of the Infant Jesus ‚Äì Providence Sisters of Rouen, and Sisters of Providence of Lisieux. These sisterhoods shared his vision of education and aimed to contribute to society by providing education and care to those in need.

Blessed Nicolas Barré passed away on May 31, 1686, in Paris, France, due to natural causes. Recognizing his exemplary life and virtuous character, Pope John Paul II declared him venerable on March 21, 1983, in a decree of heroic virtues. Later, on March 7, 1999, Pope John Paul II beatified Nicolas Barré, acknowledging his blessedness and his significant contributions to education and spirituality. Today, Blessed Nicolas Barré is honored on May 31st each year as his feast day, a day to remember and celebrate his life and legacy.