Blessed Henri Grialou

Biography

Blessed Henri Grialou, also known as Marie-Eugene of the Child Jesus and Marie-Eugène de l'Enfant-Jésus, was born on 2 December 1894 in Le Gua, Aveyron, France. He was the son of Auguste Grialou and Marie Miral. Unfortunately, his father passed away due to pneumonia when Henri was young.

Henri received his education in Graves and Rodez, France. It was during his time in the seminary that he developed a deep devotion to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, who would remain a central figure in his spiritual journey. However, World War I interrupted his studies, and he bravely served on the front lines. Henri rose to the rank of Lieutenant and was honored with the chevalier in the Legion of Honor, receiving the military cross for his courageous service.

During his military service, Henri and his comrades believed they were under the protection of Saint Thérèse of Lisieux. This conviction further strengthened his devotion to her, and after the war, he delved deeply into the writings of Saint John of the Cross, being drawn to the spirituality of the Carmelite tradition.

On 4 February 1922, Henri was ordained as a professed priest of the Order of Discalced Carmelites, taking the name Marie-Eugène de L'Enfant-Jésus. His journey as a Carmelite led him to found the Secular Institute of Notre-Dame de Vie in 1932, located in Venasque, France. This institute was established with the aim of fostering spiritual growth and bringing the teachings of Carmelite spirituality to laypeople.

Henri's dedication and expertise in Carmelite spirituality became widely recognized, and from 1937 to 1954, he served as the Definitor General of the Carmelites. In 1948, Pope Pius XII appointed him as an Apostolic Visitor, entrusting him with the mission of revitalizing the spiritual lives of the Carmelite brothers and sisters. His impact in this role was profound.

Further recognition came when Henri was appointed as the Vicar-General of the Carmelites from 1954 to 1955. His leadership and commitment to the Carmelite Order greatly influenced the community's growth and development during this period.

Blessed Henri Grialou passed away on Easter Monday, 27 March 1967, in Venasque, Vaucluse, France. His life and spirituality continued to inspire many, and on 19 December 2011, he was venerated by Pope Benedict XVI. Later, on 19 November 2016, Pope Francis beatified him in a ceremony held at the Parc des Expositions in Avignon, France. The beatification was presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato.

Blessed Henri Grialou's legacy exemplifies the transformative power of Carmelite spirituality and the importance of fostering spiritual growth in both religious and lay communities. His life serves as an inspiration for all those seeking a deeper connection with God and a greater understanding of the path to holiness.