St. Marguerite Bourgeoys
French-Canadian foundress (1620-1700), of Troyes, sailed for New France in 1653 at the invitation of governor Maisonneuve; founded the Congregation of Notre-Dame of Montreal (the first non-cloistered women's congregation in North America) and the first school in Ville-Marie. Canonized 1982 by John Paul II as the first Canadian woman saint.
Life & Times
Born: 1620 · Died: 1700 · From: France / Canada.
Patronage
St. Marguerite Bourgeoys is invoked as the patron of poverty, education, teachers, montréal. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“What you do for the love of God, you cannot do too well.”— Counsel to her Sisters of the Congregation of Notre-Dame, recorded c. 1690
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Marguerite Bourgeoys, 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.