The Basics: Born September 9, 1814, in France; died July 31, 1867, in France; beatified September 9, 2018; feast day, September 9. Woman religious.
The Story: There’s a school of thought that we need to suffer if we are to be true daughters and sons of the Lord. However, that’s not the way
Alphonse Marie (born Elisabeth) Eppinger saw it. She knew from personal experience; she had her own health challenges when she was very young, and it’s likely that informed her life. Rather than invite suffering, she was dedicated to alleviating suffering wherever possible so that people could draw closer to God. In 1848, she discerned a call to found a community of women religious aimed at providing support and comfort to people of all religious affiliations and social standing. The following year, she and others came together as what would become the Sisters of the Divine Redeemer. The Catholic Church approved the community in 1866, the year before Mother Alphonse Marie (known as MAM) died.
What We Can Learn from Alphonse Marie: There are so many ways we can relieve suffering, and many of them don’t cost a cent. Resolve today to share a smile, give a hug, or listen to someone who needs kindness… and isn’t that all of us?
Alphonse Marie’s Wisdom: “Your suffering should neither darken your countenance nor depress your thoughts.”
To Learn More About Alphonse Marie: Visit the site for her beatification or the site for the Sisters of the Divine Redeemer.
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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