The Basics: Born April 23, 1464, in France; died February 4, 1505 in France; canonized May 28, 1950, by Pius XII; feast day, February 4. Queen, woman religious.
The Story: Jeanne was just twelve when her father, King Louis XI of France, arranged her marriage to 
the Duke of Orleans, a distant cousin. But after the couple had been married for many years, her husband became king and sought to have their marriage annulled so that he could marry the widow of his predecessor (who was Jeanne’s brother). The new king contended he had been forced into the marriage by Jeanne’s father, and that her physical deformities had prevented the consummation of their marriage. Once it became clear the annulment would be granted, Jeanne accepted her fate and said she would pray for the new king. She and her spiritual director then founded the Annunciade or Order of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which emphasizes the importance of the Immaculate Conception and seeks to emulate Mary’s virtues.
Jeanne’s Wisdom: “God has now detached me from the world and has made it possible for me to serve Him better than heretofore.”
What We Can Learn from Jeanne: Sometimes, we lack control over a situation, just as Jeanne did with her annulment. At those times, we pray for the grace to accept things as they are. Where in your life are you struggling in vain? How can you let go of the hurt?
To Learn More About Jeanne: Check out the Web site for the Annonciade, the order Jeanne founded. The site features information the order’s history and activities today, and its rule.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my book, Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
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