St. Louise de Marillac – Patron Saint of Social Workers and Co-Founder of the Daughters of Charity

ST. LUYS MARILACK

St. Louise de Marillac, co-founder of the Daughters of Charity, devoted her life to the poor and sick in 17th-century France. Guided by St. Vincent de Paul, she revolutionized religious service by empowering laywomen to serve outside cloisters. Her legacy continues through social work worldwide.

St. Louise de Marillac was born on August 12, 1591, in Ferrières-en-Brie, France. Raised primarily by her father after her mother’s early death, Louise received a classical education at a Dominican convent. Although she wished to join a religious order from a young age, she was discouraged by her confessor and eventually married Antoine Le Gras, a court official under Queen Marie de Médicis, in 1613. The couple had a son, Michel. Her early years were marked by personal suffering, including the illness and eventual death of her husband in 1625.

Following her husband’s death, Louise met St. Vincent de Paul, a priest renowned for his dedication to the poor and vulnerable. He became her spiritual guide and mentor, recognizing her administrative talent and spiritual depth. Their partnership laid the groundwork for one of the most impactful charitable organizations in the history of the Catholic Church.

In 1633, Louise and Vincent co-founded the Daughters of Charity, a new religious community of laywomen committed to serving the poor, sick, and marginalized. Unlike traditional convent-bound orders, the Daughters of Charity lived and worked directly in the communities they served. This was revolutionary at a time when most female religious were cloistered. Louise traveled extensively to oversee and organize these missions, establish hospitals, orphanages, and schools, and provide direct care to those in need.

She emphasized discipline, compassion, and professional excellence among the sisters, while nurturing a deeply spiritual community life. Under her leadership, the Daughters of Charity rapidly expanded throughout France and set the foundation for modern nursing and social work.

Despite her own struggles with poor health, Louise remained a devoted leader until her death on March 15, 1660, in Paris. Her contributions not only advanced the role of women in the Church but also redefined how society approached charity and care for the vulnerable. She was beatified in 1920 and canonized in 1934 by Pope Pius XI. In 1960, Pope John XXIII named her the Patroness of Christian Social Workers, recognizing her enduring legacy.

Her remains rest in the Chapel of the Miraculous Medal in Paris, where she continues to inspire generations of those called to serve. Her feast day is celebrated on March 15 .

Feast Day

15-3-

Birth Date

12-8-1591

Died Date

15-3-1660

Canonised Date

11-3-1934

Chapel of the Miraculous Medal, Paris, France

St. Louise de Marillac, Servant of the poor and humble in heart, Teach us to love and serve with joy. Pray that we may trust in God's plan And care for those in need. Amen.
ST. LUYS MARILACK

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ST. LUYS MARILACK

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