Which Catholic saint founded the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary with Francis de Sales in 1610?

Jane Frances de Chantal founded the Order of the Visitation of Holy Mary with Francis de Sales in 1610. The congregation began at Annecy, in the Duchy of Savoy, as a community focused on prayer, humility, and charitable service.

Born in Dijon in 1572, Jane married Christophe de Rabutin-Chantal and became a widow in 1601. She met Francis de Sales in 1604, and he became her spiritual director. Their correspondence and collaboration led to the creation of the Visitation community.

The order was unusual because it was initially intended to welcome women who could not follow the severe physical austerities expected by some other communities. It later developed into a contemplative order, with enclosed monasteries devoted to prayer and community life.

Jane governed numerous foundations and maintained a close relationship with Francis until his death in 1622. She was canonized in 1767 by Pope Clement XIII. Her feast is observed on 12 August in the Roman Catholic calendar.