From the Central Africa newsletter: ‘Living the charism of Saint Jeanne Antide Thouret in a rapidly changing world: a call for consistency’.
This is the title of the editorial in the November 2025 issue of the Central Africa Province newsletter, which we are reprinting because of its commitment to addressing a complex reality, asking us Sisters of Charity, first and foremost, to take on ever greater responsibility for embodying the charism of our Foundress with enthusiasm and practicality.
“In the turmoil of our contemporary world, characterised by constant upheaval and growing uncertainty, it is necessary to turn to figures who have been able to navigate through times of crisis.
Saint Jeanne Antide Thouret, who lived and acted during the French Revolution, offers us a roadmap of surprising modernity. Her legacy is not a simple relic of the past, but a vibrant call for consistency and practicality.
Living the charism of Jeanne Antide today means, first and foremost, demonstrating unwavering boldness.
Furthermore, the charism of Saint Jeanne Antide invites us to embrace simplicity and humility: we all know that these two virtues characterise our being as Sisters of Charity.
In a society often obsessed with consumption and material success, she reminds us that true wealth lies in selfless service and sobriety.
It is by taking a step back from materialism that we can focus on what is essential: human and spiritual relationships.
This theme invites us to explore how the spirit of Jeanne Antide, founded on charity, perseverance and unwavering trust in Providence, can be concretely embodied in the modern world.
From compassion for the marginalised to the importance of education, through to the strength of community and simplicity of heart, her values guide us in facing the complexities of our time.
The challenge is daunting: how can we translate her vision into concrete actions capable of sowing hope and building a more just and humane future?
Finally, and this is undoubtedly the most crucial point, her charism teaches us the importance of making spirituality the driving force behind our actions.
Jeanne Antide’s work was not the result of mere human will, but of a profound union with God. Today, in order for our commitment not to run out, we must nourish it at the source of prayer.
It is this inner strength that enables us to persevere, to give without reserve and to remain faithful to our mission, even when the road is full of obstacles.
By rediscovering and living the charism of our Mother Saint Jeanne Antide Thouret, we are not merely perpetuating a tradition: we are responding to the call of our time by becoming architects of peace, justice and hope, rooted in faith and oriented towards service.
Especially in this jubilee year of her birth into heaven.
edited by Sister Chika
Photos courtesy of sculptor Timoty Paul Schmalz, https://timothypaulschmalz.com/
