Emmanuel d'Alzon
Emmanuel d'Alzon (1810-1880) was a French priest, founder of the Augustinians of the Assumption and the Oblates of the Assumption, and a pioneer of the Catholic press.
Contemporaries
Figures and markers around the normalized period for this entry.
Guided reading
5 reading sections
Biography
Born in Le Vigan in 1810, studies in Paris, choice of the priesthood and ordination in Rome in 1834 before becoming vicar general in Nîmes.
Emmanuel Joseph Marie Maurice Daudé d'Alzon was born on August 30, 1810, in Le Vigan, in the Gard department, into an aristocratic Catholic family. His father was Viscount André-Henri Daudé d'Alzon and his mother was Jeanne-Clémence de Faventines-Montredon. After secondary studies in Paris and law studies, he associated with intellectuals such as Félicité de Lamennais, Charles de Montalembert, and Frédéric Ozanam. He chose the priesthood in 1832, studied in Montpellier and then in Rome, where he was ordained a priest on December 26, 1834. He became vicar general of Nîmes in 1835.
Life and Work
Foundation of the Assumptionists and the Oblates of the Assumption, development of Christian education, missions in the Orient, and the Catholic press.
In Nîmes, he took over the Collège de l'Assomption in 1844. On Christmas night in 1845, he founded the congregation of the Augustinians of the Assumption (the Assumptionists). In 1863, at the request of Pius IX, he sent missionaries to Constantinople. In May 1865, he founded the Oblates of the Assumption with Marie Correnson. A pioneer of the media, he launched the Revue de l'Enseignement Chrétien in 1851 and created the journal La Croix in 1880. He refused the episcopate and died in Nîmes on November 21, 1880.
Journey toward holiness
Recognition of his apostolic zeal and the opening of his cause for beatification in Nîmes and subsequently in Rome.
The reputation of holiness of Emmanuel d'Alzon spread immediately upon his death due to his apostolic zeal, his charity, and his devotion. The diocesan process for his beatification was opened on February 1, 1931, by Bishop Girbeau, Bishop of Nîmes. The cause was introduced in Rome before the Congregation of Rites on May 29, 1958.
Beatification and canonization
Declaration of venerability by Pope John Paul II in 1991 and awaiting the recognition of a miracle.
On December 21, 1991, Pope John Paul II signed the decree recognizing the heroic nature of his virtues, conferring upon him the title of "Venerable." The official recognition of a miracle by the Holy See remains required for his beatification. His liturgical feast is set for November 21.
Spirituality and legacy
Christocentric spirituality centered on the Triple Love and the endurance of his work through the Assumption Family.
His spirituality is summarized by the motto "Adveniat Regnum Tuum" and is articulated around the "Triple Love" (Christ, the Virgin Mary, the Church). Inspired by Saint Augustine, he conceived religious life as a fraternal community oriented toward action. His legacy is perpetuated today through the Assumption Family (Augustinians, Oblates, Religious of the Assumption founded by Saint Marie-Eugénie of Jesus, Little Sisters, Orantes, and associated laypeople) present in more than thirty countries.
Frequently asked questions about Emmanuel d'Alzon
Who was Emmanuel d'Alzon?
Emmanuel d'Alzon (1810-1880) was a French priest, founder of the Augustinians of the Assumption and the Oblates of the Assumption, and a pioneer of the Catholic press.
Which saints were contemporaries of Emmanuel d'Alzon?
Contemporaries include: Jesús María Echavarría Aguirre, Pauline of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus, Narcisa de Jesús and Juan de Jesús López y González.
When did Emmanuel d'Alzon die?
Emmanuel d'Alzon died around 1810.
What are the other names of Emmanuel d'Alzon?
Other forms of the name: Emmanuel Joseph Marie Maurice Daudé d'Alzon.
Who are the relatives of Emmanuel d'Alzon?
Relatives of Emmanuel d'Alzon: André-Henri Daudé d'Alzon (father), Jeanne-Clémence de Faventines-Montredon (mother) and Liron d'Ayrolles (great-uncle).
Annexes & related entities
Structured data for exploration: events, miracles, quotes, places, attributes, patronages, and important entities cited in the text.
Key Events
- Era / death: 1810-1880
- Decree of venerability by John Paul II