Founder of the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary
“The founders are our roots, not so that we can follow them in any way, but so that it will bear fruit. To return to the beginnings… of our Institutes is to go to that root to drink from it, as from a fountain, and to be able to respond in a just manner.”
She was a woman with an intuition and a missionary impulse
Hélène, Marie, Philippine de Chappotin, was born in Nantes on May 21, 1839 to Charles de Chappotin, Public Works Engineer, and Sophie Galbaud du Fort; families of the aristocracy whose history had already crossed in the distant West Indies. Life was shared with his uncle’s family, in Nantes, and then in the property of le Fort.
Education to a deep faith, quite severe, with a deep respect for the Pope and the Church, willingly idealized. Assured instruction at home. Joy of an extended family life. Full of character, spirited nature, gifted and willing child, young Hélène grew up, full of life.
But life also brings its tragedies: the death of a young cousin and two of her sisters; a time of political upheaval in France and Rome, which was keenly felt in her family environment. “What was there worth loving?… Everything seemed to me so empty!” Hélène, teenager, was looking for what could fill her heart and her existence.
At age 17, Mary of the Passion has a profound spiritual experience that leads her to a life dedicated to God.
After her mother’s death, she feels called to the Franciscan way and enters the Poor Clares, offering her life for the Pope and the Church.
After illness and leaving the monastery, she seeks guidance and joins the Society of Mary Reparatrix.
She begins her novitiate in Toulouse, receiving the name Mary of the Passion and dedicating herself to Jesus Crucified.
Sent to India, she becomes superior, later provincial, and works in challenging conditions while growing spiritually.
Mary of the Passion founds the Institute of the Missionaries of Mary, recognized by Pope Pius IX.
She drafts the Institute’s Constitutions and becomes a member of the Franciscan Third Order, establishing the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary.
Opposed in Rome, she is briefly removed from leadership but reinstated after examination.
Mary of the Passion oversees the Institute’s growth worldwide, responding to missionary needs and writing extensively.
Mary of the Passion dies, leaving behind a thriving community of 2,000 sisters in 88 communities across 24 countries.
Mary of the Passion is beatified on October 20, acknowledging her spiritual and missionary legacy.
The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary continue their mission of peace and love in today's world. Are you ready to embrace this mission with us?