Today marks the Feast Day of Saint Joan of Arc! She is the patron saint of soldiers, prisoners and France. We are taking a moment to reflect on her life - Her courage and conviction are one of a kind. Saint Joan of Arc is known for her unwavering faith in God, and her determination to defend France from the English at all costs. Her famous words, “I am not afraid; I was born to do this” have inspired countless people throughout history. She was a beacon of hope during a time of unrest and conflict, and her selfless devotion to God was an inspiration to all who knew her.
Life of Joan of Arc
Joan of Arc was born in 1412 and grew up in a small town in France. She grew up working on the farm with her father and sewing with her mother. When Joan was 12 years old, she started to have special visions - The first from Michael the Archangel. In this vision, he told her that she would lead the French in battle against the English and would later take the king to get crowned in Rheims. As time went on, she continued to have visions from God, but it wasn’t until she 16 that she decided to listen to them.
She then ventured out to see King Charles and ask him for an army to defend the English. Hesitant at first, the king later decided to let her accompany soldiers and supplies from Orleans. She then started to prep for battle, learned how to fight and ride a horse.
News of Joans’ visions started to spread throughout France. The French hoped that God would save them from the English, but once she arrived to town, she launched an attack. During battle, she was wounded by an arrow but continued to fight and lead her army to victory.
Following battle, she decided to follow through with her other vision, which was to lead the King to Rheims to be crowned. She successfully lead him to the crown!
Joan’s story of fearlessness continued - She took a small army to help defend the city of Compeigne (it was under attack by the Burgundians). She was later captured during battle and sold to the English. She was then put on trial and announced guilty, resulting in death. She died at the young age of 19.
Lessons from Joan
Joan’s story is truly compelling. Not only is she a prime example of great strength and courage, but she also teaches us the importance of facing adversity. Her story is one that continues to resonate with us today - Faith can move mountains, no matter what or who life throws at you. No matter how challenging a situation may seem, Joan taught us that faith can overcome it. She inspires us to live an authentic, fearless life.
Famous Quotes
It’s only fitting to share a few of our favorite quotes from her. Grab a pen and paper to write these down, and read through them whenever you need some encouragement.
“My words and deeds are all in God’s Hands: in all, I wait upon Him."
“I have a good Master, that is God; it is to Him I look in everything and to none other.”
“Without the grace of God I should not know how to do anything.”
"I was born for this."
"In God's name! Let us go on bravely!"
A Prayer To Saint Joan of Arc
St. Joan of Arc, give me strength:
In this, my time of need, I beg thee to come to my aid.
(Share your request…)
Hear this petition and my heartfelt plea.
Grant me by your divine and powerful intercession, the courage and strength I need to endure this constant fight. Help me to be victorious in the tasks God presents to me. Amen.
Saint Joan of Arc - Pray for us.
