Saint Julie Billiart

Saint Julie Billiart was born in Cuvilly, France, in 1751. It is said that Julie remembered the Catechism by the time she was 7 years old and would frequently teach it to young children and farmhands. Years later, having witnessed an attempt on her father’s life, Julie became paralyzed. She continued teaching the Catechism from her bed. Later, in 1803, Julie co-founded the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, an order known for educating the poor. A year later, she recovered from her 22 years of paralysis and continued her ministry. She is the patron saint of sickness and poverty. Her feast day is April 8.

If Saint Julie were alive today she would be teaching the Catechism in her local parish.

Young Adult Ministry Program Idea: Saint Julie demonstrated an unrelenting love for God. Ask young adults to reflect on their relationship with God. Make a list (individually or as a group) of some simple ways you can strengthen that relationship.