Baptized in Christ Jesus

During the 18th and early 19th century, Martin was a very popular saint in France, especially in Burgundy where Anne-Marie was born, probably because he was the patron of vintners as well as soldiers.  Born in Hungary in 316 to pagan parents, he was conscripted in the army because his father was an army officer. He later became a Christian and a conscientious objector. 

The charges brought against him were  eventually dropped and Martin was free to become a monk. In 360 he settled in Gaul (France) and was soon joined by disciples. Together, they founded the first monastery in  Gaul.  In 371 the people proclaimed Martin Bishop of Tours. He served as a bishop –monk and converted many pagans to the faith. He died in 397. 

The biography of Martin written by his friend, Sulpicius Severus, relates the many good works and wondrous deeds that made him such a popular saint. In art, he is usually shown on horseback, handing his cloak to a poor man.  

Anne-Marie Javouhey saw in this saint, both a model for evangelization and a protector as she began working to save the faith from the destructive influences of the French Revolution.  The fact that she was baptized on November 11, the day the Church celebrates his life, made him all the more significant to her.

Called to Holiness

“Let all try to become saints”

AMJ  Letter 126

Those whom God calls to live in communion with Him as followers of Anne Marie Javouhey, are also called to holiness and this is not optional.  It is not enough for them to admire this woman, sing her praises and rejoice that she is known, admired and celebrated by others.  They have to take the pathway to holiness.  It is willed by God: “The Will of God is our sanctification,” writes St. Paul (I Thess 4:3)

Union with the Will of his Father was the goal of Jesus’ life from the first moment to the last. This is what he said on coming into the world… “God, here I am. I am coming to obey your will.” (Heb. 10:3,7) “Father…let your will be done, not mine…” (Lk. 22:42)

Anne Marie Javouhey had the mind of Christ in this matter. She dedicated herself wholly to God and to the doing of his Will. Because of this total availability, God led her to become a founder and a missionary. Today, God is just as ready to “do great things” for anyone who is united to him. Devotion to God’s Will is the beginning and the end of holiness. All that affects us and that does not originate in our will may and should be looked on as coming from God – as God’s will for us.