Meet Saint Marguerite d'Youville: Foundress of the Sisters of Charity of Montreal; Known Informally

Residents of 18th century Canada, a land they called "New France," initially may have said that Marguerite d'Youville had been "born under a lucky star." She was the eldest of six children from a notable family, was said to be beautiful and was recorded by the nuns at the Ursuline Academy to be an outstanding student. At home she was a loving nanny to her younger siblings, and a very welcome participant with her peers at social events. She loved good company and was looking forward to her wedding when her mother surprised her by eloping with a newcomer to Montreal that socially squelched Marguerite's wedding plans. Subsequently, Marguerite's second engagement resulted in marriage to an apparently acceptable man which proved to be a bitter disillusion, yet ultimately became influential in her spiritual growth. The initial reaction from the townspeople was to hurl stones at Marguerite and her helpmates. This is the story of her life and path to sainthood.