October 2
Joan Emilia de Villeneuve (1811–1854)
Religious missionary founder
French religious and founder of the Sisters of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception of Castres, Juana Emilia de Villeneuve responded to the new poverty of industrial society.
Biography
After losing her mother and sister at a very young age, she gave up a comfortable life to serve workers, the sick, prisoners and exploited women. She founded her congregation in 1836 and wanted her nuns to treat everyone with respect, patience and tenderness. He opened schools and workshops and sent missionaries to Senegal and Gabon. During a cholera epidemic she gave herself to the care of those affected and died shortly after, consumed by charity.
Practical advice
Treat with special delicacy today someone whose behavior or situation usually provokes rejection.