Early Life and Marriage

Jane Frances Frémiot de Chantal was born on January 28, 1572, in Dijon, France, into a noble and devout Roman Catholic family. Her father, Bénigne Frémiot, was the president of the Parliament of Burgundy, and her mother, Marguerite de Bérbisey, died when Jane was only eighteen months old. Raised in a household of faith and discipline, Jane showed early signs of a profound spiritual inclination.

In 1592, at the age of 20, she married Baron Christophe de Rabutin-Chantal, with whom she shared a loving and harmonious union. The couple resided at the family estate at Bourbilly, near Dijon, and were blessed with six children, three of whom died in infancy.

Widowhood and Spiritual Awakening

Jane’s life took a dramatic turn in 1601 when her husband was accidentally killed during a hunting expedition. Left a widow at age 29 with four young children and a large estate to manage, Jane navigated her grief with remarkable resilience, deepening her spiritual life through prayer, acts of charity, and a vow of perpetual chastity.

Despite her desire to dedicate herself entirely to God, Jane attentively fulfilled her maternal and managerial responsibilities. Her charitable works soon gained her a reputation for holiness and compassion, especially among the poor and sick of her community.

Spiritual Direction and Founding of the Visitation Order

Jane’s encounter with St. Francis de Sales in 1604 in Dijon marked a pivotal moment in her life. Guided by his spiritual wisdom, she discerned a calling to religious life. Together, they founded the Congregation of the Visitation of Holy Mary (the Visitation Order) at Annecy, Savoy, on June 6, 1610. The order was distinctive for accepting women who were rejected by other orders due to age or health, focusing on humility, gentleness, and charitable service rather than strict asceticism.

The Visitation Order rapidly expanded, and by the time of Jane’s death, eighty-six convents had been established throughout France.

Later Years and Death

Jane Frances de Chantal spent her later years overseeing the growth of her order, writing numerous letters of spiritual guidance, and enduring personal losses, including the deaths of her children and her close friend, St. Francis de Sales. She died peacefully on December 13, 1641, at the Visitation Convent in Moulins, France.

Saint Jane Frances de Chantal Pray for us!