St Jeanne De Lestonnac

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In the vibrant city of Bordeaux, France, during the tumultuous religious landscape of the 16th century, a remarkable woman emerged whose legacy would transform educational opportunities for women. St. Jeanne De Lestonnac was a pioneering educator, devoted mother, and foundress of a religious order that would change the face of women’s education across Europe.

Early Life and Family Background

Born in 1556 to an influential family, Jeanne de Lestonnac came from a complex religious environment. Her father, Richard de Lestonnac, was a member of the Parlement of Bordeaux, while her mother, Jeanne Eyquem, was the sister of the renowned philosopher Michel de Montaigne. Interestingly, her family dynamics were marked by religious tension, with her mother embracing Calvinism while her father remained steadfastly Catholic.

Marriage and Motherhood

At the young age of 17, Jeanne married Gaston de Montferrant and bore seven children, experiencing both the joys and profound sorrows of motherhood. Three of her children died in infancy, a heartbreaking experience that would shape her compassionate character. For 24 years, she was a devoted wife and mother, managing her household with grace and resilience.

Spiritual Transformation

After her husband’s death, Jeanne underwent a remarkable spiritual journey. At 46 years old, she initially entered the Cistercian Monastery in Toulouse, taking the religious name Jeanne of Saint Bernard. However, illness forced her to leave, leading her to a period of deep spiritual discernment. During this time, she:

• Performed charitable acts • Distributed food and alms • Prayed with young women of her social class • Studied the lives of inspiring Catholic women like St. Scholastica and St. Teresa of Avila

Founding the Company of Mary

In 1605, when a devastating plague struck Bordeaux, Jeanne risked her life to care for the sick in the city’s poorest regions. This experience of service became a pivotal moment in her spiritual calling. With the encouragement of Jesuit priests, she established the Company of Mary, Our Lady in 1607, becoming the foundress of the first religious order of women-teachers approved by the Catholic Church.

Educational Mission

Her order was revolutionary for its time, focusing on providing formal education for girls in an era when such opportunities were rare. By the time of her death in 1640, 30 schools had been established throughout France, a remarkable achievement that reflected her commitment to women’s education and spiritual development.

Legacy and Recognition

St. Jeanne De Lestonnac’s remarkable life was officially recognized by the Catholic Church. She was:

• Beatified in 1900 by Pope Leo XIII • Canonized on May 15, 1949 by Pope Pius XII • Declared the patron saint of widows, abuse victims, and those rejected by religious orders

Today, her religious order continues her mission, with over 1,450 sisters serving in 27 countries across Europe, Africa, North and South America.