On this same day, we also joyfully celebrate the feast of the Martyrs of Angers, honoring two courageous Daughters of Charity—Blessed Marie‑Anne Vaillot and Blessed Odile Baumgarten—who lived and died for their faith. Born in Fontainebleau (1736) and Gondrexange (1750) respectively, they served the sick poor at the Hôtel‑Dieu in Angers. In early 1794, during the peak of the French Revolution’s Reign of Terror, they were interrogated for refusing the state-mandated oath that severed links with the Church. Arrested on January 19, 1794, they remained steadfast, affirming, “My conscience does not permit me to take the oath,” until they were executed by firing squad on February 1, 1794, at Avrillé, encouraging fellow martyrs with prayer and hymns even in their final moments. Beatified by Pope John Paul II on February 19, 1984, their witness is an enduring testament to unwavering faith, charity, and sacrifice in the face of persecution.
We also joyfully celebrate the foundation of the Sisters of the Holy Faith, a congregation with deep roots reaching back to Dublin in 1857. Originally founded by Margaret Aylward to care for Catholic orphans, this Vincentian missionary community has since extended its mission to embrace education, faith formation, and social justice. Though its earliest work centered around St. Brigid’s Orphanage—which housed and educated over 3,000 children—the sisters have since broadened their reach, founding and running primary and secondary schools across Ireland, the United States, Australia, New Zealand, Trinidad, and South Sudan. Today, they continue their legacy through initiatives like the St. John’s Education Centre for at-risk youth and the Margaret Aylward Centre for Faith and Dialogue in Glasnevin, reflecting a lasting commitment to nurturing minds, hearts, and communities.