Venerable Voices: St. Joan of Arc

St. Joan of Arc, affectionately known as the "Maid of Orléans," stands as an exemplar of faith, courage, and determination in the history of the Catholic Church. Born in 1412 in Domrémy, France, Joan was a peasant girl who rose to become a national heroine and a Saint, revered for her extraordinary faith and unyielding commitment to the will of God.

Early Life and Divine Visions

Joan's early life was marked by deep piety and an unwavering dedication to the Church. At just 13 years old, Joan began receiving visions and hearing voices which she attributed to Saint Michael, Saint Catherine, and Saint Margaret. These divine messengers instructed her to aid Charles VII in reclaiming his throne and liberate France from English domination during the Hundred Years' War.

Military Campaigns

Despite her young age and lack of military training, Joan's sheer conviction and charismatic leadership inspired French troops. She convinced Charles VII and his court of her divine mission, and in 1429, she led French forces to a pivotal victory at the Siege of Orléans. This victory was instrumental in reversing the tide of the war in favor of France and is considered one of Joan's most remarkable achievements.

Trial and Martyrdom

In 1430, Joan was captured by the Burgundians, allies of the English, and was handed over to the English forces. She was subjected to a politically motivated trial led by Bishop Pierre Cauchon. Despite enduring grueling interrogations and immense psychological pressure, Joan's faith never wavered. Charged with heresy, amongst other accusations, she was found guilty and was burned at the stake on May 30, 1431, at the age of 19.

Canonization and Legacy

Joan of Arc was posthumously exonerated in a second trial ordered by Pope Callixtus III in 1456, which declared her a martyr. Her unwavering faith and heroic actions earned her sainthood, and she was canonized by Pope Benedict XV in 1920. Today, Joan of Arc is venerated as a patron saint of soldiers and France, symbolizing courage in the face of adversity and unwavering faith.

Joan of Arc’s story resonates through history as a testament to the power of faith and the extraordinary feats it can inspire. Her legacy endures in the hearts of millions, reminding us of the profound impact one individual, guided by divine purpose, can have on the course of history.

Because of her life and death dedicated to God, St. Joan of Arc is one of the martyr-saints included in the mural in our chapel. St. Joan is one of the most widely-known saints in the Church’s history, and we ask for her intercession alongside that of Blessed Stanley Rother here at the shrine!

References

Thurston, H. (1910). St. Joan of Arc. In The Catholic Encyclopedia. New York: Robert Appleton Company. Retrieved from http://www.newadvent.org/cathen/08409c.htm

Wicks, K. (2022, August 13). Who was Joan of Arc?: Answers to your questions about this heroic saint. Catholic News Agency. Retrieved from https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252032/who-was-joan-of-arc-what-did-she-do

Franciscan Media. (n.d.). Saint Joan of Arc. Retrieved from https://www.franciscanmedia.org/saint-of-the-day/saint-joan-of-arc