Saint Jeanne Elizabeth Des Bichier Des Anges

Biography

Saint Jeanne Elizabeth Des Bichier Des Anges, also known as Saint Jeanne Elizabeth, was born on July 5, 1773, in La Blanc, Charente, France. She was the daughter of Antony Bichier, lord of Agnes, and Marie Augier de Moussac. At the age of ten, she entered a convent in Poitiers, France, where she received an education until the age of nineteen.

Following her education, Jeanne Elizabeth returned home when her father passed away in order to protect her family's property from being confiscated by the state. She successfully won a court battle to retain the property, and alongside her mother, she moved to La Guimetiere. This town, still recovering from the aftermath of the French Revolution, lacked religious communities and even a resident priest.

Driven by her faith, Jeanne Elizabeth gathered the remaining faithful of La Guimetiere together to pray, read Scripture, and sing hymns. Understanding the importance of religious life in her journey, she spent time living with the Carmelites and the Society of Providence, learning firsthand about the experiences of religious communities.

In 1797, Jeanne Elizabeth learned of another dedicated individual, Saint Andrew Fournet, who shared a similar ministry in a nearby city. Recognizing their shared passion, she sought his guidance and assistance. The two quickly developed a strong bond of friendship and together founded the Sisters of the Cross (Sisters of Saint Andrew) with the aim of caring for the sick, the poor, and educating the people in rural France.

Taking on the role of the first superior of the community, Jeanne Elizabeth's leadership helped the Sisters of the Cross grow rapidly. By 1830, the community had established sixty houses spread throughout France. In conjunction with their work, a men's congregation known as the Priests of the Sacred Heart of Betherran was also formed, working alongside the Sisters.

Despite facing numerous challenges, Jeanne Elizabeth's dedication to her faith and the needs of the people remained unwavering. She tirelessly served her community and worked to establish a strong foundation for the Sisters of the Cross, ensuring they could continue their mission in aiding the sick, the poor, and providing education.

Saint Jeanne Elizabeth Des Bichier Des Anges passed away on August 26, 1838, in La Puye, Vienne, France, due to natural causes. Her virtuous life and commitment to serving others were recognized by Pope Pius XI, who declared her venerable on April 22, 1928, through a decree of heroic virtues. She was then beatified by Pope Pius XI on May 13, 1934, and finally canonized by Pope Pius XII on July 6, 1947.

Today, Saint Jeanne Elizabeth Des Bichier Des Anges is remembered as a devoted servant of God and a compassionate advocate for the sick, the poor, and the education of rural communities in France. Her life serves as an inspiration for all those who seek to follow a path of holiness and selfless service.