Saint Joan of Arc

Biography

Saint Joan of Arc, also known as Jean D'arc, Jeanne d'Arc, Jehanne Darc, and the Maid of Orleans, was born on January 6, 1412, in Greux-Domremy, Lorraine, France. She was the daughter of Jacques d'Arc and Isabelle Romee, and she was one of five children. From a young age, Joan claimed to receive supernatural visions and messages from Saint Margaret of Antioch, Saint Catherine of Alexandria, and the Archangel Michael. These divine revelations urged her to find the true king of France and assist him in reclaiming his throne from the English and their Burgundian allies, who controlled a significant portion of France during the early 15th century. Initially hesitant, Joan resisted these visions for more than three years. However, she eventually decided to act on them and presented herself before Charles VII, the Dauphin of France, in Chinon. Carrying a banner that read "Jesus, Mary," she led troops and participated in numerous battles. Despite being severely wounded, her military victories between February 23, 1429, and May 23, 1430, played a crucial role in Charles VII's ascent to the French throne. However, Joan's fortunes took a turn when she was captured by the Burgundians during the defense of Compiegne. She was subsequently sold to the English for 10 thousand francs. Following her capture, Joan faced trial by an ecclesiastical court led by Cauchon, the Bishop of Beauvais, who was known for his support towards England. Joan was accused of heresy, and despite her unwavering faith, she was declared guilty and executed by burning on May 30, 1431, in Rouen, France. It was not until 1456, twenty-three years after her execution, that Joan's case was re-tried. In this retrial, she was acquitted of all charges, confirming her innocence in the eyes of the Church. Saint Joan of Arc was beatified on April 18, 1909, by Pope Saint Pius X, and canonized on May 16, 1920, by Pope Benedict XV. She is widely represented as a bareheaded girl in armor, often depicted with a sword, lance, and/or banner. Her feast day is celebrated on May 30th. Saint Joan of Arc is revered as the patron saint of captives, France, imprisoned people, martyrs, opposition of Church authorities, people ridiculed for their piety, prisoners, rape victims, soldiers, the Women's Army Corps, the WAVES (Women Appointed for Voluntary Emergency Service), and the Women's Army Corps. In her profound simplicity, Saint Joan of Arc once stated, "About Jesus Christ and the Church, I simply know they're just one thing, and we shouldn't complicate the matter." These words encapsulate her unwavering faith and devotion to God and the Church throughout her remarkable life.