Today we celebrate the birthday of Society of the Sacred Heart foundress St. Madeleine Sophie Barat! Born on December 12, 1779, in Joigny, France, Madeleine Sophie led a life of vision and ministry. Here is how Sophie inspires us today to live out the Five Goals of a Sacred Heart Education by her lifelong example.
Goal 1: A personal and active faith in God – even during persecution
The Reign of Terror, a period of the French Revolution marked by political and religious repression, began when Sophie was 16. She joined her older brother Louis, a priest, in Paris to support his secret ministry. Her desire to join the Carmelites was delayed during this time but providently paved the way for her to say yes to founding The Society of the Sacred Heart in 1800.
Goal 2: A deep respect for intellectual values – our firm foundation
Sophie had the privilege of being educated by her brother, and learned Latin, Greek, history, natural science, Spanish, and Italian, providing Sophie with an education that was rarely available to young women and girls at the time. Her mission for her students was that they be serious, to cultivate their minds, and be devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and perform good deeds in God’s name. Building on the good reputation of Sacred Heart Schools, she expanded her mission to opening “free schools” for students regardless of financial ability.
Goal 3: A social awareness which impels to action – a lifelong mission
Sophie began her mission in the aftermath of the Reign of Terror. What emerged from the turmoil was a hurt people who needed the warm love and forgiveness of a merciful God, and an optimistic future of growth and learning. Centered in personal and communal prayer, the Society set out to give young women a classical education – not common in their day – and to offer religious studies and practical skills. Sophie’s goal was to educate girls so that they could have a transforming influence in society.
Goal 4: The building of community as a Christian value – developing deep relationships
Sophie was described as having a natural capacity for friendship. She used her gift to gather up a community of supporters for her mission: a whole-child education rooted in the deep love of Christ for children across the globe. She worked hard to maintain unity within the social, political, economic, and religious currents operating in Europe and in the wider world of her time.
Goal 5: Personal growth in an atmosphere of wise-freedom – an inspiration to behold
We are fortunate that Sophie’s extensive collections of 14,000 letters are widely available for an inside look at her heart, connections, and vision. Her humility and grace inspire us today.
As we reflect on the life and legacy of St. Madeleine Sophie Barat, we see how her vision and example continue to inspire us to embody the Five Goals of a Sacred Heart Education. On this special day, we honor her remarkable contributions and strive to carry forward her mission, fostering lives of purpose, compassion, and wisdom. May her example guide us as we continue to live out her vision in our own lives and communities.
