~Blessed Marie Thérèse
Blessed Marie Thérèse Haze, the foundress of the Daughters of the Cross, was born on February 27, 1782, in Liège, Belgium. Her early life unfolded against the backdrop of profound political and social unrest, as the French Revolution swept across Europe. In the face of such turmoil, she remained resolute in her faith, drawing strength and inspiration from the Christian values instilled in her from childhood.
Deeply moved by the plight of the poor and the marginalized, Marie Thérèse felt a compelling call to dedicate her life to the service of others, guided by an unshakable trust in Divine Providence. In 1833, she founded the Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross, driven by an ardent desire to radiate Christ’s compassion to a wounded world. The Congregation took as its mission the education of the young, the care of the sick, and the uplifting of society’s most vulnerable—bearing witness always to the redemptive power of the Cross.
Her vision was anchored in the belief that authentic discipleship demands a loving and courageous embrace of the Cross. She exhorted her sisters to recognize Christ in those they served, offering their lives in humility and self-giving love for the greater glory of God. Under her inspired leadership, the Congregation flourished, extending its reach across borders and expanding its apostolate in education, healthcare, and social outreach.
As Blessed Marie Thérèse’s spiritual director and confidant, Msgr. Canon Habets played a pivotal role in shaping the early foundations of the Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross of Liège. A man of profound faith, theological insight, and steadfast commitment, he discerned the divine calling in Marie Thérèse’s heart and wholeheartedly supported her mission to serve the suffering and destitute. His wise counsel and enduring partnership were instrumental in nurturing the spiritual and structural growth of the Congregation. To this day, the Sisters hold him in deep esteem, honoring his indispensable legacy as an essential part of their history and identity.
Our journey begins in the heart of Liège, Belgium, where Jeanne Haze, later known as Mother Marie Thérèse, was born on February 28, 1782. The fourth of six children, Jeanne grew up in a secure, well-respected family. Her father served as Secretary to the Prince Bishop of Liège. However, the French Revolution of 1789 brought hardship, including the deaths of Jeanne’s father and brother, the confiscation of family property, and a loss of home for her mother. Amidst these struggles, Jeanne and her sister Ferdinande remained hopeful, drawing strength from their faith.
After their mother’s death in 1820, Jeanne and Ferdinande dedicated themselves to serving the poor. They taught children, nursed the sick, and opened a workshop to teach embroidery, while also providing religious and academic education. In 1830, the repeal of anti-Catholic laws in Belgium paved the way for religious renewal and the founding of new congregations.
On September 8, 1833, at the Carmel in Potay, Liège, the first Daughters of the Cross made their vows, and the Congregation was formally established. Mother Marie Thérèse, with her sister Ferdinande and a small group of companions, brought her vision to life. In 1834, Sr. Madeleine (Sophie Armitage) from England joined the Congregation, further expanding its reach.
Canon Habets, a zealous co-founder, played a crucial role in laying the foundation of the Congregation in Belgium and beyond, working tirelessly to ensure its growth and success. His spiritual guidance was invaluable to the Sisters, and his collaboration with Mother Marie Thérèse brought their shared dream to fruition.
At the death of our Foundress in 1876, the Congregation had grown from 4 sisters to 900 Daughters of the Cross. Mother Marie Thérèse's vision sparked an inspiring movement, with Sisters pioneering in education, healthcare, and social work. Their ministries included kindergartens, high schools, hospitals, homes for children, and support for the sick, as well as involvement in prison ministry, adult education, and even non-combatant nursing during the Austro-Prussian War, Franco-Prussian War, and both World Wars.
From its humble beginnings in 1833, the Congregation has blossomed into a global force for good, continuing to inspire with the same zeal and dynamism as the day it was founded.
The Daughters of the Cross of Liège are a Roman Catholic Religious Congregation founded in the early 19th century, primarily focused on education, healthcare, and serving the poor and marginalized. Their mission is deeply rooted in the Spirituality and Charism of the cross, emphasizing compassion, humility, and selfless service. The Congregation was originally established in the city of Liège, Belgium, with the goal of providing care for those in need, especially in times of social and economic upheaval.
The Congregation’s primary purpose is to live out the Gospel values by caring for the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of people, with a particular focus on women and children. Their educational and health care work expanded globally, and they established schools, orphanages, hospitals, and other charitable institutions across various countries.
The Daughters of the Cross follow a rule of life that is centered on prayer, community life, and a deep commitment to the works of mercy. Their spiritual formation is grounded in the belief that each individual is called to holiness through the service of others. They aim to create an environment where all people can experience the love of God, whether through education, healthcare, or other forms of social outreach.
Over the years, the Daughters of the Cross have grown into a worldwide network of sisters who continue to live their mission with dedication and zeal, adapting to the changing needs of society. The Congregation’s work today spans several continents, and their ministries continue to serve the marginalized, with a focus on the needs of women and children, often in the areas of education, healthcare, and social justice.
Their legacy remains one of compassion, service, and a deep commitment to the values of the Christian faith, demonstrating how the Cross—symbolic of suffering and sacrifice—can be a source of hope, transformation, and healing for the world.
The Associates are lay people who share the Mission and Spirituality of the Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross.
Sr. Theodorine (Maria Caroline Mevis), born in 1832 in Limbourg, Belgium, joined the Daughters of the Cross at 18 after being deeply moved, seeing the sisters at work with the poor and sick, especially during a plague outbreak in 1846. Before her mission to India in 1867, she worked with children needing special care and served as Assistant Novice Mistress in Aspel, Germany. In 1875, she became the first Provincial Superior of the Indian mission, leading with remarkable courage, faith, and love for Christ.
Her missionary zeal took her to remote, perilous areas where she faced dangers with wild animals, bandits, and harsh weather but continued undauntedly. She inspired her sisters with her selfless dedication. Sr. Theodorine exemplified the spirit of Blessed Marie Thérèse, whose mission she carried forward. She returned to Liège in 1899 and spent her final years in prayer and thanksgiving at the Mother House. At her funeral, Monsignor Baunard praised her unwavering love for Christ, describing it as the driving force of her life and mission.
Sr. Emilie Schneider, born in 1820 in Haaren, Germany, was a woman of exceptional grace and devotion. Raised in a mixed-faith family, she became a governess in Liège, Belgium, where she encountered the Daughters of the Cross. Deeply moved by their work with the poor, she felt a divine calling to join them, despite initial opposition from her parents. In a heartfelt letter, she expressed her joy, saying, "I am happier than ever… God Himself has led me to this state of happiness."
Embracing her new life, she was known for her holiness, kindness, and unwavering trust in God's providence. As a novice, her spiritual depth inspired others, and she faced every challenge with love and faith. Sr. Emilie’s life was a beautiful blend of mystical union with God and tireless service to humanity. Her contemplation was as profound as her action, exemplifying the spirit of "contemplation in action." She received numerous mystical graces, which she humbly shared with her spiritual director. Sr. Emilie’s life stands as a powerful witness to the transformative power of prayer and selfless service.
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