Saint Julia Billiart

Biography

Saint Julia Billiart, also known as Julia of Billiart, was born on July 12, 1751, in Cuvilly, a small village in Picardy, France. She was the sixth of seven children born to Jean-François Billiart and Marie-Louise-Antoinette Debraine, who were humble peasant farmers. Despite her lack of formal education, Julia had a deep faith and a remarkable understanding of her Catholic catechism from a young age. At just seven years old, she knew the catechism by heart and would often explain it to other children in her village. At the age of 14, Julia made a private vow of chastity and dedicated her life to serving and teaching the poor. She tirelessly ministered to the needs of those around her, offering assistance, education, and spiritual guidance to those in need. Her generosity and love for others soon became well-known in her community. Tragedy struck when Julia was 22 years old. While sitting next to her father, an unknown assailant shot at him, leaving Julia partially paralyzed. This sudden shock changed the course of her life, and she spent the next 22 years confined to a bed or wheelchair due to her paralysis. However, even in her immobility, Julia's spirit remained undeterred. She continued to offer prayers, counsel, and support to those who sought her help. Her profound faith and unwavering commitment to God's will inspired a group of friends to organize and formalize the work she had already begun. During the French Revolution, Julia's friends established the Congregation of the Sisters of Notre Dame, also known as the Institute of Notre Dame or Sisters of Notre Dame. On June 1, 1804, Julia experienced a miraculous healing, leading to the restoration of her mobility. With her vibrant faith and renewed physical strength, she resumed her mission wholeheartedly. The Institute of Notre Dame, under Julia's guidance and leadership, was dedicated to the Christian education of girls. It was formally established in Amiens, France, on October 15, 1804, with Saint Julia and two other women taking their first vows. The Institute grew rapidly, and by the time of Julia's death, it had expanded to include 15 convents. Saint Julia Billiart's life was characterized by her deep devotion to God, selfless service to the poor, and commitment to education. She lived a life of poverty and humility, always placing the needs of others above her own. Julia Billiart passed away on April 8, 1816, in the Institute's motherhouse at Namur, Belgium. She died while engaged in prayer, her heart completely surrendered to God. On January 6, 1903, she was given the title of Venerable by the Catholic Church. Recognizing her sanctity and the impact of her work, Pope Pius X beatified Julia Billiart on May 13, 1906. Later, on June 22, 1969, Pope Paul VI canonized her, declaring her a saint of the Catholic Church. Today, Saint Julia Billiart is venerated as a patron saint against poverty, bodily ills, impoverishment, sick people, and sickness. Her life serves as a reminder of the transformative power of faith, selflessness, and dedication to the service of others.