St. Léonie Aviat – Founder of the Oblate Sisters and Patron of Working Girls

ST. LIONIE AVIAT

St. Léonie Aviat was a French religious sister who co-founded the Oblate Sisters of St. Francis de Sales, dedicating her life to the education and spiritual care of young working women.

Born as Françoise de Sales Aviat in Sézanne, France, on September 16, 1844, Léonie Aviat grew up in a deeply Catholic family and was educated by the Visitation Sisters in Troyes. From an early age, she exhibited a strong devotion to God, a love of learning, and a gentle character. Her spiritual formation and connection with the teachings of St. Francis de Sales shaped her vision for religious life.

Under the guidance of Father Louis Brisson and in response to the needs of the growing industrial workforce, Léonie co-founded the Oblate Sisters of St. Francis de Sales in 1868. The congregation was dedicated to supporting the moral, educational, and spiritual formation of young female factory workers who were often vulnerable to exploitation in the industrial environment of 19th-century France.

Taking the religious name Sister Françoise de Sales, she was soon elected superior general and became the guiding force of the community. She personally oversaw the formation of sisters, the establishment of hostels and schools for working girls, and the spiritual direction of many who were influenced by the Salesian spirituality of gentleness and fidelity.

Throughout her life, Léonie Aviat demonstrated profound trust in Divine Providence. Despite challenges, including anticlerical opposition and exile from France during the government’s suppression of religious orders, she continued to lead the congregation with resolve and compassion. She passed away on January 10, 1914, in Perugia, Italy.

Her remains were eventually returned to the Mother House in Troyes. She was beatified by Pope John Paul II on September 27, 1992, and canonized on November 25, 2001. Today, the Oblate Sisters of St. Francis de Sales continue her mission around the world, especially in the education of young women and children.

Feast Day

10-1-

Birth Date

16-9-1844

Died Date

10-1-1914

Canonised Date

25-11-2001

Troyes, France

St. Léonie Aviat, you lived with humility, kindness, and dedication to youth and workers. Help us to serve others with joy and faith, embracing the will of God in all things. Pray for us, that we may grow in love and simplicity. Amen.
ST. LIONIE AVIAT

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ST. LIONIE AVIAT

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