Early Life and Noble Roots
Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon was born on June 10, 1789, in Feugarolles, France, to a noble family deeply rooted in faith and service. She was the daughter of Charles de Batz de Trenquelléon, a loyal officer in the French Royal Army, and Jeanne de Lur-Saluces. Adèle’s early years were marked by the turmoil of the French Revolution, which forced her family into exile in Spain. This period of displacement nurtured in Adèle a spirit of resilience and a profound reliance on divine providence.
A Heart for God and the Poor
Even as a young girl, Adèle exhibited a remarkable devotion to prayer, charity, and the Eucharist. While in exile, she felt a growing call to dedicate her life to God. On returning to France after the Revolution, Adèle’s commitment to her faith only deepened. She was particularly moved by the plight of the poor and marginalized in her community, dedicating her time to acts of service and spiritual guidance.
The Little Society
At the age of 15, Adèle began gathering like-minded young women in a group known as the “Little Society.” Their mission was to support each other in growing in holiness and to engage in works of mercy. This small association laid the groundwork for her later religious endeavors.
The Marianist Vision
Adèle’s spiritual journey took a decisive turn when she met Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, a Marian priest and fellow visionary. Together, they shared a dream of revitalizing the Church in post-Revolutionary France through education, evangelization, and Marian devotion. With Father Chaminade’s guidance, Adèle discerned her call to found a religious congregation.
The Daughters of Mary Immaculate
On May 25, 1816, at the age of 27, Adèle founded the Daughters of Mary Immaculate (Filles de Marie Immaculée) in Agen, France. The congregation focused on living a simple, communal life dedicated to prayer, education, and service to the poor. Adèle’s charism emphasized devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and trust in her intercession.
Under her leadership, the Daughters of Mary Immaculate grew rapidly, establishing schools and missions that served both spiritual and practical needs. Adèle’s humility, wisdom, and maternal care endeared her to her sisters and to those she served.
Illness and Death
Adèle’s health was fragile, and she suffered from recurring illness throughout her life. Despite her physical challenges, she remained unwavering in her dedication to her mission. She died on January 10, 1828, at the age of 38, leaving behind a legacy of faith, hope, and love.
Beatification
On June 10, 2018, Pope Francis declared Adèle de Batz de Trenquelléon Blessed, recognizing her heroic virtues and her role in renewing the faith in a turbulent era. Her feast day is celebrated on January 10, the anniversary of her death.
Legacy
Blessed Adèle’s legacy lives on through the Daughters of Mary Immaculate and the Marianist Family, which includes both her congregation and those founded by Blessed Chaminade. Her life is a testament to the transformative power of faith and the enduring strength of Marian devotion.
Blessed Adèle continues to inspire countless people to live lives of service, humility, and trust in God.