Blessed Alix Le Clerc

Biography

Blessed Alix Le Clerc, also known as Alix of Mattaincourt, Alix Le Clercq, Alice le Clerc, Alessia le Clerc, Maria Teresa of Jesus, and Marie-Thérèse of Jesus, was born on February 2, 1576, in Remiremont, Vosges, France. She was born into a wealthy family and, during her early years, enjoyed dance, music, and parties, earning a reputation as a silly and frivolous girl.

However, everything changed when Alix had a profound conversion experience at the age of 21. This transformation led her to become a spiritual student of Saint Peter Fourier, a renowned spiritual director and educator. Alix's newfound devotion prompted her to focus her efforts on the education of young girls, recognizing the importance of providing them with the opportunity to grow intellectually and spiritually.

In 1598, Alix Le Clerc, along with Saint Peter Fourier, co-founded the Congregation of Our Lady, Canonesses of Saint Augustine. This religious community was established with the primary purpose of teaching poor children, particularly girls who were often neglected in terms of education during that time. The Congregation's initial efforts bore fruit, with the establishment of 60 houses dedicated to education.

The Congregation faced numerous challenges throughout its history, including surviving the tumultuous years of the French Revolution. Despite the adversities, the religious community persisted, and today it oversees schools in ten countries across Europe and South America.

On January 9, 1622, Blessed Alix Le Clerc passed away at the Congregation convent in Nancy, Meurthe-et-Moselle, France, due to natural causes. She was buried in the convent cemetery in a lead coffin. Unfortunately, the location of her grave was lost when the convent was destroyed during the French Revolution. However, in 1950, her coffin was rediscovered, and her relics were enshrined in the chapel of the Notre Dame School in Nancy, France, in 1960. Additionally, on October 14, 2007, her relics were further enshrined in a chapel in the cathedral of Nancy, where they continue to be venerated.

Blessed Alix Le Clerc's exemplary life of dedication to education and the spiritual formation of young girls did not go unnoticed. On April 3, 1932, Pope Pius XI recognized her heroic virtues, and she was subsequently venerated. On May 4, 1947, Pope Pius XII beatified her, acknowledging her significant contribution to the field of education and her unwavering commitment to the values of the Catholic faith. Today, Blessed Alix Le Clerc serves as an inspiration for those seeking to combine education and spirituality in service to others.