Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur during the revolutionary era
During the French revolution,
Julie Billiart, born in Cuvilly France
in 1751, endured many difficulties being poor despite her handicap of losing
strength to walk on her legs from the plague. She was a dedicated Catholic and
went into hiding during the French revolution.
When churches reopen in 1804, Julie regained the usage of her legs and
spent the remaining years of her life to set up convents. Along with Francoise Blin de Bourdon, Julie vowed
to be a sister of Notre Dame. Together
Francoise and Julie committed their life to God. Francoise had funded the opening of a free
school for poor girls through her inheritance.
They relocated to Namur, France which is Belgium now. They were able to work with God there. In 1816, Julie died peacefully praying. Around 1851, the sisters of Notre Dame
purchased their first property in San Jose, College of Notre Dame, a Catholic
college. In 1923, the college moved
from San Jose to the Ralston Mansion in Belmont.
Julie Billiart introduced how
sisters became God’s followers. Living
through the French Revolution, she spread her kindness that founded the Sisters
of Notre Dame de Namur. After her death,
Sisters, just like Julie, cared for the orphans and the ill and became
nurses. Now, I can see how over the
years, congregation fueled new energy as schools formed and now, the sisters
continue their mission to become God’s followers showing goodness. Reflecting back, Julie Billiart was an
astounding female role model, and I respect the hallmarks that she contributed
to our NDNU classrooms. She paved the way for others to follow because of human
duty. Julie remains a prominent female
mentor who continues to inspire the beauty of truth.
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