Saint Jeanne of The Cross Delanoue

Biography

Saint Jeanne of the Cross Delanoue, also known as Jeanne del Croi Delanoue, Johanna Delanoue, Ioanna Delanoue, or Joan Delanoue, was born on June 18, 1666, in Samur, Anjou, France. She was the youngest of twelve children born to a draper father and a mother who owned and operated a religious goods store. Jeanne's life took a significant turn when her mother passed away in 1691. Being a smart and hard-working individual, she took over the family business and managed to make it a success. However, during the season of Pentecost in 1698, Jeanne experienced two profound mystical encounters that deeply impacted her perspective on life. Her first encounter was a vision, and the second involved a series of pious commentaries by Frances Souchet, a widowed pilgrim from Rennes, France. These experiences led Jeanne to shift her focus from the comforts and successes of the material world to a more spiritual path. She made the courageous decision to close down her shop and dedicate her life to serving the poor, sick, and neglected. With the help of generous benefactors she had met through her business, Jeanne founded and furnished three orphanages. Her innate leadership qualities and dedication to the cause inspired others to join her, resulting in the establishment of the Sisters of Saint Anne of Providence of Samur in 1704. At this point, Jeanne took on the name Jeanne of the Cross. Jeanne of the Cross Delanoue became renowned for her miraculous healing abilities, which further enhanced her reputation as a devout and compassionate figure. Together with her companions, she founded numerous orphanages and hospices throughout France, thereby providing care and support for the less fortunate. Saint Jeanne of the Cross Delanoue passed away on August 17, 1736, in Fencet, France, due to natural causes. Her exemplary life and virtues were recognized by Pope Pius XI on June 7, 1929, when he declared her venerable. Later, on November 5, 1947, Pope Pius XII beatified her in Rome, Italy. Finally, on October 31, 1982, Pope John Paul II canonized her as a saint, also in Rome. Although Saint Jeanne of the Cross Delanoue does not have a specific patronage associated with her, her life and works continue to inspire countless individuals seeking to live a life of selflessness and service to others. Her legacy serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith and dedication in making a positive impact on society.