Saint of the Day: June 17, 2024
Saint Emily de Vialar, born Anne Marguerite Adelaide Emily de Vialar, is celebrated for her profound dedication to the care of the needy and the education of children. Born on September 12, 1797, in Gaillac, Languedoc, France, she was the eldest child and only daughter of Baron James Augustine de Vialar and Antoinette de Portal. Her maternal grandfather was a prominent physician to Louis XVIII and Charles X of France.
Early Life and Challenges
Emily was educated in Paris but returned home at the age of fifteen to be a companion to her father after her mother’s death. Despite her father’s wishes for her to marry, Emily felt a strong calling to a life of service and refused to consider marriage. This decision led to tensions between her and her father, but Emily remained resolute in her commitment to serve God and the poor.
For fifteen years, Emily devoted herself to charitable works in Gaillac. She cared for neglected children and aided the poor, becoming known as the “good angel of Gaillac.”
Founding the Congregation
In 1832, Emily’s maternal grandfather passed away, leaving her a substantial inheritance. With this newfound financial independence, she purchased a large house in Gaillac and, along with three companions, began a new religious community. In just three months, the archbishop authorized the establishment of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Apparition. Their mission focused on caring for the sick and educating children.
Emily and seventeen other sisters made their religious profession in 1835, and the Congregation received formal approval for its rule. The order grew rapidly, establishing around forty houses across various regions within twenty-two years, many of which Emily personally founded.
Trials and Triumphs
Despite suffering from a hernia from her youth, which she contracted while performing an act of charity, Emily’s physical energy and dedication to her mission were unwavering. Her condition worsened over the years, and by 1850, it had become more serious, ultimately contributing to her death.
Legacy and Canonization
Saint Emily de Vialar passed away on August 24, 1856. Her final message to her daughters was a call for unity and love: “Love one another.” She was canonized by Pope Pius XII in 1951, recognizing her extraordinary contributions to the Church and society. Her feast day is celebrated on June 17th.
Reflection:
Saint Emily de Vialar’s life exemplifies unwavering dedication to God and service to humanity, even in the face of personal suffering and familial conflict. Her legacy lives on through the ongoing work of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Apparition.
Prayer:
Saint Emily de Vialar, your dedication to the poor and the sick and your tireless work in education inspire us to serve those in need with love and compassion. Help us to follow your example and remain steadfast in our faith, no matter the challenges we face. May we always remember your call to “love one another” and strive to live in unity and charity. Amen.