Mother Françoise-Marguerite Patin, Director and Superior of the Visitation Monastery of Caen, Seen Through Her Own Voice, Monastic Testimonies, and Her Correspondence with Jean Eudes

Abstract

This article aims to shed light on the fundamental role of Mother Françoise-Marguerite Patin within the religious institutions of her time while highlighting the lasting influence of her actions on the spiritual and communal life of Caen, where she served as superior of the monasteries of the Visitation and Notre-Dame de Charité. First, I will examine her role as a director, as described by her contemporaries. These testimonies will provide insight into her personality, governance methods, and the spiritual and material support she offered to the religious communities under her care. Next, we will analyze her legacy through the enduring impact she left on the Orders of the Visitation and Notre-Dame de Charité, as well as on the spiritual life of Caen. Finally, I will conclude with a study of the portrait that emerges of Mother Patin from her correspondence with Father Jean Eudes, her spiritual director and the founder of the Order of Notre-Dame de Charité.