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Ahead of World Day of the Poor, observed by the church on November 17, French bishops have initiated the sainthood cause for Claude and Marguerite de La Garaye. The couple, who lived in the 18th century, gave up their noble lifestyle to care for the poor and sick in Brittany near Dinan.
St. John Paul II recognized them as "charitable spouses" during his visit to Brittany in 1996. Dominican Father Jean-Marie Gueullette, a medical doctor working on their cause's historical aspects, noted that "over the past 300 years, more than 220 publications have testified to their virtues."
Claude de La Garaye was a former king’s musketeer with a passion for hunting, while Marguerite was known as an excellent horsewoman. Their lives changed drastically after Marguerite suffered a serious fall from her horse in 1703. Father Gueullette explained that Claude became his wife’s nurse following her accident.
Their story was immortalized in Caroline Sheridan Norton's poem “The Lady of La Garaye,” which detailed their marital tenderness and gained popularity even in the United States.
In 1710, after Claude's brother-in-law died suddenly, both decided to dedicate themselves to God. They sold unnecessary possessions and transformed their estate into a hospital offering free care.
Having begun training in medicine during a trip to Paris in 1704, Claude learned surgery and chemistry while Marguerite studied ophthalmology. They led a disciplined life with regular prayer and spiritual conferences conducted by Claude.
Father Gueullette mentioned that "their hospital had an excellent reputation," emphasizing improved hygiene conditions compared to regional standards at that time. King Louis XV supported Claude’s research efforts financially.
The couple also created economic opportunities for the poor through plantations and salt works. Sisters from local congregations assisted them until another religious group took over after Claude's death.
"Their commitment as a couple was unusual at a time when spouses often led very different parallel lives," remarked Father Gueullette about their joint beatification process.
Caroline de Sury reported this story for OSV News from Paris.
