St. Mary Euphrasia Pelletier

On May 2, 1940, a momentous occasion took place as Pope Pius XII bestowed the highest honors upon a truly remarkable woman, Mother Mary Euphrasia Pelletier. The Vatican Basilica resounded with the joyful strains of the Te Deum, and this jubilation echoed in chapels across the globe. Countless women, girls, and Sisters from the Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd of Angers, along with the numerous homes of charity they served in, celebrated the elevation of their beloved Mother to the status of a saint. Saint Mary Euphrasia Pelletier, the Foundress and first General Superior of the congregation, was not only a spiritual leader but also a renowned sociologist of her time.

Rose Virginia Pelletier, born on July 31, 1796, amid the tumultuous French Revolution, came from a devout family. Despite the challenges posed by the suppression and expulsion of religious Orders, Rose Virginia's mother took on the responsibility of educating her daughter in matters of faith. It was under her mother's guidance that Rose Virginia learned about God and His service, instilling in her a deep devotion from an early age.

In 1814, Rose Virginia entered the Order of Our Lady of Charity of the Refuge at Tours. After a period of postulancy, she received the habit and began her life as a novice in September 1815. During her two years in the novitiate, she immersed herself in the history and work of her Order, preparing herself for a life dedicated to religious service. Inspired by the example of a Saint who achieved sanctity through perfect obedience, Sister Mary Euphrasia privately vowed to embrace obedience as the path to holiness. In 1817, she made her first public vows and her exceptional qualities soon became evident to all.

St. Mary Euphrasia's body is buried on the property of the Motherhouse of the Sisters of the Good Shepherd in Angers, France.

Patronage: travelers.

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