Note: To observe the Jubilee Year of Mercy (which runs through November 20), for several weeks I am featuring women who exemplify one of the corporal or spiritual works of mercy. Today: Forgive offenses willingly.
The Basics: Born January 1, 1579, in France; died 1601 in France; canonized June 29, 1867, by Pius IX; feast day, June 15. Daughter; shepherdess.
The Story: Germaine’s mother died in childbirth or shortly thereafter, leaving behind a child with a variety of physical problems. Germaine’s right hand or arm was paralyzed. She suffered from what may have been a form of tuberculosis. Her father remarried quickly, and whether it was from fear, superstition, jealousy, meanness, or evil, his new wife had serious issues with Germaine. The girl was given leftovers to eat. Her stepbrothers and sisters were encouraged to torture and taunt her. The stepmother eventually ordered Germaine to sleep out with the sheep or under a stairwell.
Despite all this, Germaine continued to treat her stepmother with love and respect. The girl went to Mass daily and grew and grew in devotion to the Lord. Then one winter day, the stepmother believed Germaine had stolen bread and was preparing to punish her. When Germaine opened her apron, it contained beautiful summer flowers. The stepmother invited Germaine to move back into the house. But she chose instead to stay where she was.
Germaine’s Wisdom: “Dear God, please don’t let me be too hungry or too thirsty. Help me to please my mother. And help me to please you.”
What We Can Learn from Germaine: Whom do you see as a persecutor in your life–a boss, a neighbor, maybe even a sibling? Rather than argue with the person about what he or she is doing, pray to find favor with him or her, as Germaine did.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my books, Blessed Are You: Finding Inspiration from Our Sisters in Faith or Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
