Saint Marguerite Bourgeoys (1620 - 1698)
Today is the feast of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys , one of my favorite saints. She is the founder of the Sisters of the Congregation of Notre Dame, who were my teachers in both elementary and high school, when I was growing up in the 50's and 60's. St. Marguerite Bourgeoys has been described as a woman of dreams and action, despite her frail health. She was known for her obedience to God and for her perseverance in carrying out His desires despite the many obstacles and hardships she faced. Born in Troyes, France in 1620, Marguerite assumed a "parental" role in her family at age 19 due to the death of her mother. The following year, through the inspiration of the Blessed Virgin Mary, she consecrated her life to God and became a member of the Extern Congregation of Troy, a group of women who were dedicated to teaching the poor children of the town. It was during this apostolate that she first sensed a call to missionary work. In 1652, Monsieur de Maisonneuve, founder and...