St. Emily de Vialar

St. Emily de Vialar was a French noblewoman who founded the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Apparition, dedicating her life to serving the sick, the poor, and the marginalized across continents.

St. Emily de Vialar was born on September 12, 1797, in Gaillac, France, into a noble family. Her mother died when Emily was just thirteen, and she was sent to Paris for her education, where her spiritual and intellectual formation blossomed. Despite her father’s opposition to her religious aspirations, she was determined to live a life wholly given to God.

Following her return to Gaillac, Emily saw the immense needs of the poor and sick in her town and decided to act. In 1832, using a large inheritance she received from her grandfather, she founded the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Apparition. The order focused on education, healthcare, and missionary work, and it quickly grew beyond France’s borders.

St. Emily's work spread to Algeria, Tunisia, Cyprus, Syria, and beyond. She and her sisters faced incredible hardships — from political tensions and health crises to opposition from ecclesial authorities. Emily herself endured false accusations and was even expelled from her own community for a time. Nevertheless, she remained steadfast in her mission, trusting in divine providence.

Her tireless efforts led to the establishment of schools, hospitals, and orphanages across multiple countries. She remained a figure of deep faith, humility, and perseverance until her death on August 24, 1856, in Marseilles. Today, her legacy continues through the work of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Apparition around the world.

Feast Day

24-8-

Birth Date

12-9-1797

Died Date

24-8-1856

Canonised Date

24-6-1951

St. Joseph of the Apparition Convent, Marseilles, France

St. Emily de Vialar, you served Christ in the poor and the sick with courage and compassion. Teach us to give generously and trust in God’s plan, even in hardship. Amen.
ST. EMILY DE VIALAR

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ST. EMILY DE VIALAR

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