Description

Oil Dedicated to Ven Jeanne Chezard (Patron against Unwanted Advances)

Ven Jeanne Chezard (Patron against Unwanted Advances) from A Blessed Call To Love, Ireland.

Jeanne Chézard de Matel (1596-1670) was a French Catholic nun and founder of the Order of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament, also known as the Incarnate Word Sisters. She was born in Roanne, France, to a noble family and was educated in literature, philosophy, and theology.

In her youth, Chézard de Matel experienced a spiritual awakening and felt called to dedicate her life to God. She entered the convent of the Carmelite Order but left due to illness. After her recovery, she founded the Order of the Incarnate Word and Blessed Sacrament in 1625, with the aim of creating a religious community that combined the contemplative and active aspects of religious life.

Chézard de Matel’s order was unique in that it emphasized the importance of the Incarnation of Christ and the Eucharist. The sisters also encouraged to pursue academic studies and engage in charitable work. The order grew quickly, and by the time of Chézard de Matel’s death in 1670, there were more than 40 convents throughout France.

Chézard de Matel was a prolific writer and wrote several books on spirituality and religious life. Her most famous work, “The Mystical City of God,” a commentary on the life of the Virgin Mary and considered one of the most important religious works of the seventeenth century.

In addition to her religious work, Chézard de Matel also involved in political and social issues of her time. She worked to alleviate the suffering of the poor and spoke out against injustices in society.

Chézard de Matel’s legacy continues to this day, with the Incarnate Word Sisters continuing to carry out her mission of promoting education, social justice, and spirituality. She beatified by Pope Pius XII in 1949, and her feast day celebrated on May 27th.

Overall, Jeanne Chézard de Matel was a visionary leader and spiritual guide. Who dedicated her life to God and the betterment of society. Her contributions to the Catholic Church and to the world continue to celebrated and honored to this day.