Saint Joan Valois

 Feast Day February 4
Patron Saint of Those in Difficult Circumstances

Saint Joan Valois was a holy woman who lived a life filled with difficult circumstances. She never failed in her devotion to God. Her example of perseverance is an example to be followed by MMG members as they pray for loved ones to return to the practice of Catholicism.  The Prayer in Time of Difficulty  is appropriate for our prayers as members of  the MMG.

Who is Saint Joan Valois?

St. Joan wanted to spend her life as a member of a religious community, but her father insisted she marry.  At the age of 9 she entered a very unhappy marriage.  When her husband ascended the throne as king, he had the marriage annulled. She was founder of the Sisters of the Annunciation.   Its members devote themselves to prayer and penance, and to cultivate in all ways the virtues of Our Lady.  Joan, through her own acceptance of God’s will, mirrored the Mary's fiat at the Annunciation. (“I am the handmaid of the Lord. Let it be done to me according to Thy Word.”)  Although her life was not easy, Joan maintained a spirit of love and kindness, and accepted the Will of God in her life.  Many miracles, especially cures, are now attributed to her.  She was beautified in 1742 and canonized in  1950.

Prayer In Time of Difficulty

God our sovereign, we thank you for the holy example of St. Jane of Valois, who overcame difficult circumstances and maintained her faith and compassion.  May we, in our trials, remain close to you and find our difficult circumstances nothing less than opportunities to serve you and help others.  In your name we pray.  Amen