TODAY’S GOSPEL READING – 17 JUNE
June 17, 2026
NOVENA TO OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP
June 18, 2026
EMBRACING GOD’S CALL WITH COURAGE
“Here am I; send me!”
— Isaiah 6:8
Saint Emily de Vialar was born into a wealthy family in France in 1797. From a young age, she sensed that God was calling her to serve Him completely. Despite opposition from her family, especially after the death of her mother, she remained steadfast in her vocation. She eventually used her inheritance to establish the Congregation of the Sisters of Saint Joseph of the Apparition.
Her life teaches us that God’s call often requires courage, sacrifice, and perseverance. Like Emily, we are invited to trust God’s plans even when others do not understand them.
LIVING A LIFE OF CHARITY
“Let us love, not in word or speech, but in truth and action.”
— 1 John 3:18
Emily’s heart was deeply moved by the suffering of the poor, the sick, and the abandoned. She opened her home to those in need and dedicated herself to works of mercy. Her congregation established schools, hospitals, orphanages, and centers of care wherever they served.
One notable incident from her life was her tireless assistance to the sick during outbreaks of disease. She encouraged her sisters to see Christ in every suffering person.
Her example reminds us that authentic love is expressed through concrete acts of service and compassion.
TRUSTING IN DIVINE PROVIDENCE
“And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus”
— Philippians 4:19
Throughout her missionary endeavors, Emily frequently faced financial difficulties, misunderstandings, and opposition. Yet she never lost confidence in God’s providence. Time and again, when resources seemed insufficient, help arrived unexpectedly.
When founding new missions in foreign lands, she often ventured forward without knowing how necessities would be provided. Her unwavering faith inspired her sisters to rely on God rather than on human security.
She teaches us to place our worries in God’s hands and to trust that He will provide what is needed for His work.
MISSIONARY ZEAL WITHOUT BOUNDARIES
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations.”
— Matthew 28:19
Saint Emily possessed an extraordinary missionary spirit. Her congregation spread beyond France to Algeria, Tunisia, Malta, Greece, Cyprus, Palestine, Syria, and other regions. She desired that all people come to know God’s love.
An inspiring incident was her willingness to send sisters into unfamiliar cultures and difficult environments where healthcare, education, and Christian witness were urgently needed. She herself traveled extensively to encourage and strengthen these missions.
Her life challenges us to move beyond our comfort zones and share God’s love wherever He sends us.
PERSEVERING THROUGH TRIALS
“Let us not grow weary in doing what is right.”
— Galatians 6:9
Emily’s journey was marked by many sufferings. She experienced criticism, misunderstandings, administrative challenges, and periods of deep personal sorrow. Some of her efforts were met with resistance even from those closest to her.
Yet she remained faithful to her mission and never abandoned the work God had entrusted to her. Her perseverance bore abundant fruit as her congregation continued to grow and serve throughout the world.
She reminds us that holiness is often forged through endurance and faithfulness amid difficulties.
HUMILITY IN SERVICE
“Whoever wishes to be great among you must be your servant.”
— Mark 10:43
Although she came from a privileged background and became the founder of a large religious congregation, Emily never sought honor or recognition. She considered herself a servant of God and of His people.
Those who knew her spoke of her simplicity, kindness, and readiness to undertake humble tasks. She encouraged her sisters to serve with joy and without seeking praise.
Her example teaches us that true greatness in God’s Kingdom is found in humble service.
A HEART CENTERED ON CHRIST
“Abide in me as I abide in you.”
— John 15:4
The source of Emily’s strength was her deep relationship with Jesus. Her active missionary life flowed from prayer, devotion to the Eucharist, and complete trust in God’s will.
Even amid constant responsibilities and travel, she remained rooted in prayer. This union with Christ enabled her to persevere and to radiate peace and charity to others.
Her life reminds us that fruitful service begins with a loving relationship with the Lord.
PRAYER
Lord God, You called Saint Emily de Vialar to dedicate her life to the service of the poor, the sick, and the forgotten. Through her example, teach us to respond generously to Your call, to trust in Your providence, and to serve others with humility and love. Grant us the courage to persevere through difficulties and the zeal to spread Your compassion wherever we go. May our hearts remain firmly rooted in Christ, so that our lives may bear fruit for Your Kingdom. Through the intercession of Saint Emily de Vialar, bless us with faith, hope, and charity. Amen.
