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.
