The foundress

St. Jane de Chantal

Jane Frances Fremyot experienced more sorrow and stress than most lifetimes hold, yet she found impervious peace in her service to God and neighbor.

The young woman's arranged marriage evolved into real love, thanks to an abundance of graciousness and patience. Her husband, a baron, brought Jane great wealth, but she remained humble, dressing like the tenants who waited on her. After fathering four children, Jane's husband was mortally wounded by a cousin in a hunting accident. She found it very hard to forgive him.

The brokenhearted young widow was forced to move into her father-in-law's house in order to protect her children's inheritance. There, she and her children were treated with utter disrespect, enduring what she called "a seven and a half year purgatory." It never compromised her devotion to God. "Happy the soul that loves prayer and perseveres in it despite every difficulty," Jane said.

Finally she encountered a beacon of hope, St. Francis de Sales, who became her spiritual director and kindred spirit. Together, they founded the Visitation order, which welcomed widows like herself. She infused community life with a tenderness that attracted members and an organization that allowed it to thrive.

Over the centuries, Jane's dynamic life and continued acceptance of God's will have inspired many. Wives, mothers, widows and nuns relate to her. She understands their full plates and heavy hearts and knowingly instructs them, "If you cast all anxious thoughts and cares on the Lord, He will take care of you."