April 30
María de la Encarnación Guyart (1599–1672)
Widow
French, wife, mother and widow, María Guyart competently managed her brother-in-law's business while her intense contemplative life grew.
Biography
She joined the Ursulines and in 1639 she left for New France to found a community in Quebec dedicated to the education of French and indigenous girls. He learned native languages, prepared catechisms and dictionaries, rebuilt the monastery after a fire and advised people of all walks of life. Called "mother of the Church in Canada", she united mystique, practical ability and missionary courage.
Practical advice
Unite prayer and competence today: before serving, learn a fact, procedure or word from the culture of the person who will receive your help.
Example of
Family lifeContemplationMissionary zeal