Wednesday, June 1, 2016

Day 30: St. Joan of Arc, patroness of soldiers



On Memorial Day, let us look to one of the patrons of soldiers and one of the famous soldiers in history, Joan of Arc.  Happy Feast Day St. Joan!

Lived From: 1412-1431
Hometown: Small Town in France
Feast Day: May 30th

St. Joan started her life as a saint from a young age.  At the age of 12 she began to hear the voices of the saints who were her counselors.  The will of God was revealed to her over time, but by May of 1428 Joan was sure that she was to help the King of France in what we now call the Hundred Years War.  She presented herself to the military commander of France but he refused her.  However, she predicted the loss of one of the battles, and was allowed to help King Charles.  Joan led the troops into battle and was able to recapture Orleans and Troyes.  Her faith, honesty, and simplicity gave her the skills of a great leader.  She even helped King Charles to be crowned as king again and reclaim France.  She was eventually captured by the English because her companions left and failed to take her with them.  She was tried in England for heresy and was burned at the stake in 1431.  For more information:

http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08409c.htm

St. Joan of Arc, thank you for your bravery, courage, and example.  You served your country and was willing to die for it.  On this Memorial Day help us in praying for the soldiers who have fought and died for their own country. 

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