St. Jeanne de Chantal

St. Jeanne de Chantal (28 January 1572 – 13 December 1641), born in France, was a devoted wife, mother, and foundress of the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary. After her husband’s untimely death, she embraced a life of deep prayer and devotion to God, desiring to dedicate herself entirely to the service of Christ. Jeanne became a close friend and spiritual confidante of Saint Francis de Sales, who encouraged her in her vocation and guided her in establishing the Visitation Order. The order focused on prayer, simplicity, and gentleness, welcoming women who may have been excluded from other religious communities due to physical or social limitations. Saint Jeanne de Chantal lived a life of self-sacrifice, compassion, and spiritual guidance, and she is venerated as the patroness of widows and forgotten people. Her feast day is celebrated on August 12th, and her legacy of charity and humility continues to inspire those dedicated to a life of prayer and service to others.