Vincentian Places 20 – Saint-Germain-En-Laye

by Famvin Media Resources | Jul 30, 2024 | Formation

Part of a Series on Vincentian Heritage Places

Saint-Germain-en-Laye

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During the latter part of his life, Vincent de Paul had an association with the French Royal Court at Saint-Germain-en-Laye, just west of Paris. In 1638, on the orders of King Louis XIII, some Priests of the Congregation of the Mission were part of a group organised to give a Mission to the Royal Court. Vincent often spoke of St-Germain-en-Laye in regard to Missions there, and in referring to both the Ladies of Charity and the Daughters of Charity.

Towards the end of 1648, a troubled period began in France, and Their Majesties were obliged to flee to Saint-Germain-en-Laye in January of 1649. Troops came to block the approaches to the town. Vincent resolved to offer his services to Their Majesties at Saint Germain and he left Saint Lazare on the thirteenth of January. He recounted the inspiration of God which had led him to go to Saint Germain to do what he could to bring about a peaceful settlement to the present difficulties. After being presented to the queen he spent nearly an hour with her. Afterwards he met with Cardinal Mazarin for a long time. He was well received by both, who appreciated his sincerity and his upright intentions. His intervention did not have the desired result, that is, peace and the re-establishment of unity in the kingdom, for circumstances were not yet favorable. But he at least had the satisfaction of having done all in his power in service to Their Majesties to procure the public good and relief of the poor. Although the least culpable, they were the most likely to suffer the most from the approaching storm.

The Castle at St-Germain-en-Laye, now the National Archeology Musem of France; Saint Vincent undoubtedly came there often for the Council of Conscience and to meet Anne of Austria or Cardinal Mazarin