In many of the countries where the Infant Jesus Sisters live, there are Schools, Hospitals, Centres etc called ‘ Nicolas Barre’... Who is this Nicolas Barre?
Nicolas Barré, founder of the Infant Jesus Sisters.
Nicolas was born in France in October 21, 1621. He was ordained priest in 1642. Soon he became known for his holiness and as a spiritual director. While the wealthy sought him out because of his brilliance as a preacher and confessor, Nicolas preferred to be among the ordinary people, particularly those struggling to survive. While stationed in Amiens and Rouen he became very concerned about those who were illiterate and who had to beg for food and clothing, etc.
In 1662, he met some young women who had the same desire to do something to improve the lives of the children and families by giving them spiritual and practical help.
In 1666 Nicolas suggested to some of these women to have a meal together and see if they could live in community. They agreed wholeheartedly. This was the beginning of the Institute.
Nicolas insisted that these women should not be cloistered as was the norm for religious at the time but should live and work among the people – especially the most needy – and, when necessary, to reach out and find the poor. He would not allow them to accept money from rich patrons who might then impose their own agenda and said that they should work for no reward and trust in the Providence of God for all their needs.
Reflection:
‘Be happy to place yourself in my hands, to abandon yourself to my guidance, to do everything in and through me, in confidence, love, obedience and abandonment’ Letter 13
‘Be like a brush in the hands of a painter, or a pen in the hand of a writer’
We pray: ‘Whatever happens be always at peace and trust in God’
To all Infant Jesus Sisters, Associates, Collaborators, friends,
We join together to say: Happy Birthday to Nicolas !
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