St. Louise de Marillac
French foundress (1591-1660), illegitimate daughter of a noble family, widowed mother of one son, who under the direction of St. Vincent de Paul co-founded the Daughters of Charity in 1633—the first non-cloistered women's congregation, organizing the Ladies of Charity for hands-on care of the poor. Canonized 1934 by Pius XI.
Life & Times
Born: 12 August 1591 · Died: 15 March 1660 · From: France.
Patronage
St. Louise de Marillac is invoked as the patron of social workers, widows, loss of parents, daughters of charity. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“Love the poor and honor them as you would honor Christ himself.”— Spiritual Writings, Conferences to the Daughters of Charity
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Louise de Marillac, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.