April 17

Marguerite Bourgeoys was born in 1620 in Troyes, France, and responded to an appeal for teachers in New France. She arrived in Montreal in 1653 and established schools for French settlers, Indigenous children, and orphans. In 1658, she founded the Congregation of Notre Dame de Montréal as an uncloistered religious community dedicated to education. Bourgeoys traveled extensively by boat and snowshoe to reach distant settlements, demonstrating remarkable courage and devotion. She was renowned for her practical teaching methods and firm yet compassionate leadership. Canonized in 1982 by Pope John Paul II, she is the first female saint of Canada, celebrated for her pioneering role in education and community building.

Edward Stillingfleet was born in 1635 and educated at Cambridge University, where he excelled in classical studies. He became a leading voice of the Church of England, publishing works such as The Unreasonableness of Separation to argue against nonconformist sects. In 1689, he was appointed Bishop of Worcester, using his position to defend Anglican orthodoxy. Stillingfleet engaged in public debates with Catholics and Dissenters, demonstrating both theological acumen and rhetorical skill. He also contributed to early scientific discourse by supporting the Royal Society. Stillingfleet died in 1699, leaving a legacy as a scholarly clergyman who shaped religious thought in Restoration England.

Born in 1865 in Loosdorf, Austria, Ursula Ledóchowska came from a noble Polish family. She took religious vows in Rome and dedicated her life to education and care for the poor. In 1920 she established the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. Under her guidance, the order opened schools, orphanages, and missions across Europe. Beatified in 1983 and canonized by Pope John Paul II in 2003, she is remembered for her compassion. Her spiritual writings continue to inspire members of her congregation and the wider church.

Agostino Vallini is an Italian cardinal appointed by Pope Benedict XVI in 2006. He has held key positions within the Vatican, including Prefect of the Apostolic Signatura and President of the Legislative Commission. In 2012, he was named Vicar General of Rome, overseeing pastoral care and administrative duties for the Diocese of Rome. Cardinal Vallini is known for his commitment to social justice, education, and charitable initiatives. He has worked to strengthen the church’s outreach in urban communities and support vulnerable populations. Vallini played a significant role in organizing major ecclesiastical events, including papal ceremonies and synods. He continues to advise on canonical matters and serves as a leading figure in the Roman Curia.