Saint Who?
Saints Who Established Schools
Blessed Louis Brisson
Priest and founder († 1908)Feast: February 2
“Everything—every person, every contradiction—should find us in a state of joy and interior peace.” Louis Brisson was born in France in the summer of 1817. By the age of five he was already trying to draw others to God, inviting workmen to attend the local parish mission. He was ordained in his early twenties. Soon after, he was appointed chaplain of the Visitation convent in the town of Troyes.
The mother superior of this convent firmly believed Father Brisson was chosen by God to establish an order of priests dedicated to spreading the teachings of Saint Francis de Sales. Despite initial opposition to the idea, Father Brisson came to share her conviction. First he helped Leonie Aviat to found the Oblate Sisters of Saint Francis de Sales (see “Saint Who?” of August 12). Then he gathered a group of priests, the Oblates of Saint Francis de Sales, to help him start a college.
Both communities went on to start many schools. Father Brisson, as his order recalls, was their soul: he oversaw every aspect, with a gift for reading hearts and inspiring others. He was sustained throughout by a profound life of prayer. He was peaceful and joyful, despite major setbacks and persecution. “God,” he said, “takes no pleasure in our complaints.” He died at the age of ninety.
Heavenly Father, through the intercession of
Blessed Louis Brisson, may your Holy Spirit inspire the spirit of peace, joy, and praise in Catholic schools.
