A 15th-century French abbess who reformed the Poor Clares order, promoting a stricter adherence to the Rule of St. Clare, and was known for her piety, charity, and miracles. She's also the patron saint of women with infertility and pregnancy issues.
Colette of Corbie is revered as a patron saint of women seeking to conceive, expectant mothers, and sick children, thanks to the numerous miraculous events attributed to her during her lifetime. As the foundress of the Colettine Poor Clares, a reform branch of the Order of Saint Clare, Colette dedicated her life to spreading the ideals of absolute poverty and austerity.
Colette was born Nicole Boellet or Boylet on January 13, 1381, in the village of Corbie, in the Picardy region of France. Her parents, Robert Boellet and Marguerite Moyon, had prayed to Saint Nicholas for a child after growing old without having any, and their prayers were answered when Marguerite gave birth to Colette at the age of 60.
Colette's love for God and commitment to a life of service began early. After her parents' death in 1399, she joined the Beguines, but soon found their way of life unchallenging. She then joined a Benedictine order as a lay sister, likely to avoid an arranged marriage, but again became dissatisfied.
In September 1402, Colette received the habit of the Third Order of St. Francis and became a hermit under the direction of the Abbot of Corbie. For four years, she lived an ascetic life, during which she received several dreams and visions calling her to reform the Franciscan Second Order and return it to its original ideals of absolute poverty and austerity.
In October 1406, Colette turned to the Antipope Benedict XIII of Avignon, who was recognized in France as the rightful pope. Benedict received her in Nice and approved her mission, leading to the establishment of the Colettine Poor Clares.
The Colettine reform aimed to restore the original Franciscan ideals of poverty, simplicity, and humility. Colette traveled throughout Europe, founding 17 convents and establishing a new order that would spread her vision of a simpler, more austere way of life.
Her relentless efforts and dedication earned her the respect and admiration of many, including the papacy. In 1441, Pope Eugene IV approved the Colettine Rule, confirming Colette's reform as a separate branch of the Poor Clares.
After her death on March 6, 1447, Colette's reputation as a saint and miracle worker continued to grow. In 1501, Pope Alexander VI declared her a saint, and her feast day is celebrated on March 6.
Today, Colette of Corbie is revered as a patron saint of women seeking to conceive, expectant mothers, and sick children. Her legacy continues to inspire countless individuals, and her commitment to a life of service and devotion remains an enduring testament to the power of faith and compassion.
Colette of Corbie lived during a tumultuous period in European history, marked by the Western Schism and the Hundred Years' War. Despite the challenges she faced, Colette remained committed to her vision, leaving behind a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and guide generations of Catholics and non-Catholics alike.
Colette's reform of the Poor Clares and her unwavering dedication to a life of service and devotion have made her a beloved figure in Catholicism. Her veneration extends beyond the Catholic Church, however, as her story has inspired countless individuals from diverse backgrounds and faiths.
Born in 1194
A 13th-century Italian nun who renounced wealth and founded the Order of Poor Clares, a monastic order dedicated to poverty, humility, and contemplation. She's revered for her devotion to God and her role in shaping Christian spirituality.
Born in 1207
A 13th-century princess who secretly helped the poor and sick, and is now the patron saint of Hungary and charities. She's famous for her kindness and generosity.
Born in 1347
A 14th-century Italian mystic and Doctor of the Church, known for her intense spiritual experiences, influential writings, and advocacy for the poor and the unity of the Church.
