Holy Cross Foundress

Today marks the death of Leocadie Gascoin (1818-1900), first Superior General of the Marianites of the Holy Cross, a branch of the community founded by Father Basil Moreau. The Marianites are one of three women’s communities within the Holy Cross family. Born in Montenay, France, she left her parents’ home to join Father Moreau in founding the community. In 1844 she took the name Sister Mary of Seven Dolors. In 1847 Father Moreau sent the Sisters to North America, where they worked in Canada and Indiana. For 55 years until her death, Mother Mary of the Seven Dolors headed the community she helped found. She died in LeMans, France, where the community’s motherhouse is located.