Dear missionary children and youth,
Dear animators,
Dear priests and sisters,
Dear parents,

On July 11, we will commemorate the 180th anniversary of the death of Bishop Charles de Forbin Janson, Founder of the Society of the Holy Childhood.

More than a year after the beginning of the Association, consumed by his fervent apostolate and constant concern for the salvation of souls and for education in faith, especially that of the youngest children, he died in Marseilles where he had retired in his family home.

He died far from his diocese and never returned there, not even for his funeral. In fact, from Marseilles, he was transferred directly to Paris to be buried in the Picpus cemetery.

On August 28, however, his eulogy was given in the cathedral of Nancy, i.e. a long and rich speech to remember and pay homage to the person. Particularly since he was a Bishop, the preacher highlighted the important elements of his Christian, missionary, and pastoral life.

Today, I invite you to pray not only for the children of the world but also for the soul of Bishop Charles de Forbin Janson who left us this beautiful and very rich legacy, the charism of the Society. Let us pray for him and for all of us, so that our hearts may burn more and more with love for the Gospel and for the Church.

Thank You,
Sr. Roberta Tremarelli, AMSS
Secretary General