“Be diligent in serving the poor; love them with tenderness and humility.”
Born in France in 1591, St. Louise de Marillac devoted her life to God and to the service of those who were poor, sick, abandoned, and suffering. After the death of her husband, she found a new calling through her meeting with St. Vincent de Paul, who became her spiritual guide and companion in charity.
In 1633, Louise established a community of women dedicated to serving Christ in the poor—the beginning of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul. With faith, humility, and courage, she helped establish communities serving in hospitals, schools, orphanages, and among those most in need.
St. Louise died peacefully in Paris on 15 March 1660. She was canonized in 1934 and proclaimed Patroness of Social Workers by Pope John XXIII in 1960. Her feast is celebrated on 9 May.
Her life continues to inspire us to serve with humble hearts, compassionate hands, and unwavering love.