Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne, the first American canonized of French origin, carried in her given name the apostolic fervor of two great saints: Philip the Apostle and Rose of Lima, whom her parents thought of when naming her. Her education was entrusted to the Religious of the Visitations, in Sainte Marie d’en Haut, where the religious teachings deeply influenced her from adolescence. At the age of 18, she entered the convent against her parents' wishes, who had tried to arrange a marriage for her at 17 years old.
Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne engaged in charitable-social actions, helping the poor, the sick, and prisoners. In 1801, she acquired a convent where she had entered with other young women to revitalize it, but the project did not succeed. In 1804, she joined the recent foundation of the Religious of the Sacred Heart, established by Saint Madeleine Sophie Barat.
She was beatified by Pope Pius XII on May 12, 1940, and canonized by Pope John Paul II on July 3, 1988. From a young age, Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne felt the call to sow faith in America, and at 49 years old, she embarked on that project. After some time among the Native Americans, she returned to Saint Charles in 1842, where she continued her charitable and educational work.
Saint Rose faced numerous difficulties and suffering during her missions, including epidemics, hunger, and harsh climatic conditions. In 1841, she was relieved of her position as superior to fully dedicate herself to the indigenous people, to whom she devoted her life in service and austerity. Throughout her life, her unbreakable faith and heroic spirit made her a spiritual example for many, especially for the Native Americans of the Potawatomi reservation in Sugar Creek, who called her 'the woman who always prays.'
Saint Rose Philippine Duchesne, born in Grenoble on August 29, 1769, died in 1852 after leaving a legacy of sacrifice and love. Her profound mystical experience and total commitment to the missionary mission make her a model of faith and courage for all who know her story.
