Part of a Series on Vincentian Heritage Places

Sens

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One of Ozanam’s deepest friendships was with François Lallier, who “was, and always continued to be, the strong religious spirit to whom the friend unbosomed his weakness and his tenderness.” Theirs was “a great friendship.” In 1840 Ozanam traveled to Sens, where Lallier resided.

As friends they shared both joys and sorrows. When Lallier lost his young daughter Julie in 1844, Ozanam was quick to send his sincerest condolences in “a consoling letter wet with tears.” One year before, in 1843, he had rejoiced with Lallier on the birth of his second child. Now he shared in the deep sorrow caused by his friend’s sudden loss.

In 1845, Ozanam greeted Lallier with his own joyful news, the birth of his daughter Marie. He asked Lallier to be godfather.

Lallier received more from his friend than simply letters. The Ozanams welcomed into their home Lallier’s son, who lived in Paris at the Poiloup Pension. He became one of the family.

Source: Antoine Frédéric Ozanam by Raymond L. Sickinger, University of Notre Dame Press

Sens, in the late 19th century

All Vincentian Places in this Series

Red = Vincent de Paul, Blue = Frederic Ozanam, Teal = Elizabeth Seton, Yellow = Louise de Marillac

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