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Jeanne
was born in France in the fifteenth century. She spent a peaceful
childhood as a farmer’s daughter, despite having lived
during the 100 years war with England. When she was fourteen,
she began to hear voices that turned out to be those of St.
Catherine of Alexandria, St. Margaret of Antioch and Archangel
Michael. They told her it was her duty to save France from the
British, even if it meant helping a lazy prince become king.
She went to the commander of the army and warned him of disaster,
but he laughed at her and she went back to the farm. Still the
voices plagued her, and she returned to the commander. This
time, since her earlier prophecy had come true, she was given
troops and led them to victory in the Battle of Orleans. At
her insistence, she dressed as a man in white armor. Meanwhile,
the pleasure-seeking Charles VII was crowned King of France.
The Duke of Burgundy kidnapped the conquering heroine and held
her hostage. When the king showed no interest in paying for
her return (since she was regarded as a nuisance by the men)
she was sold to the English. Disturbed by the military prowess
of the young farm girl, the British put her on trial for heresy.
King Charles refused to testify in her defense and, despite
her impressive self-representation at her trial, she was sentenced
to be burned alive. Jeanne is also the patron of Soldiers. Her
feast day is May 30. |
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St.
Jeanne d'Arc
Patron St. of
Soldiers |
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