Born at Dijon in 1572, into a prominent family, St. Jane Frances received an excellent education. In 1592, she married the Baron de Chantal, an officer in the army of Henry IV. After eight happy years, she was left widow with four little children when the Baron was killed in a hunting accident.In 1604, she heard St. Francis de Sales preach and placed herself under his spiritual direction.
After providing for her welfare of her children, St. Jane Frances went to Annecy and established the Congregation of the Visitation in 1610.
For many years she suffered great interior trials with the utmost resignation, while she labored to extend her Congregation and promote God’s glory. Eighty-six houses were established before her death, which took place in 1641. She was canonized in 1767 by Pope Clement XIII.
PRAYER: God, You endowed St. Jane Frances with admirable qualities in various walks of life. Through her intercession help us to be true to our vocation and never fail to bear witness to the light You give us. Amen.