The story of the young woman who answered God’s call amid the suffering of her time.
By the Sisters Daughters of the Cross
Amid the many voices that speak to the hearts of young people — career, the future, uncertainties, and dreams — there is a gentle yet steadfast voice that continues to call: the voice of God. He does not shout or impose. Instead, He gently persists. He calls each person by name. And He waits.
Vocation is not something magical or reserved for a select few. It is a possible path for everyone who is willing to listen and follow. It is a story built day by day through prayer, discernment, inner listening, and the courage to take steps forward, even when the entire path is not yet clear.
If you feel a restlessness in your heart, a desire to serve, a longing to live for something greater than yourself… perhaps God is whispering to your heart. He speaks through the peace that arises even amid doubts. He reveals Himself in the simple joy of those who love and give of themselves.
Vocation can take many forms: religious life, marriage, priesthood, missionary service, consecrated lay life… What matters is not to ignore the call. For when God calls, He also provides the strength and walks alongside us.
We, the Sisters Daughters of the Cross, believe that every young person has a unique, unrepeatable, and beautiful calling. That is why we offer our hearts, our listening, and our experience to help you discover this path. Vocational discernment does not need — and should not — be undertaken alone. It is a journey enriched by sharing, spiritual guidance, prayer, and dialogue.
Do not be afraid to ask, to seek, or to pray. Vocation is an adventure of love and self-giving. God desires your happiness and wants to show you the path that will bring you the greatest fulfillment — even if that path includes crosses, doubts, and new beginnings.
The poverty and suffering experienced by the population following the French Revolution awakened profound compassion in Jeanne. She felt called by God to respond to the suffering of the people of her time. Together with her sister Ferdinande, she began caring for young people, the sick, and poor children, teaching them, tending to their needs, and offering shelter in her own home. Every act of love reflected God’s care, and every effort became a sign of living faith.
Over time, other women joined Jeanne and Ferdinande, inspired by their desire to serve and their example of unconditional self-giving. The group grew despite difficulties and challenges, strengthened at every step by their trust in God and determination to remain faithful to their mission. On September 8, 1833, the Congregation of the Sisters Daughters of the Cross was officially recognized by the Holy See in Rome, and Jeanne became known as Mother Marie-Thérèse Haze, dedicating her life to strengthening the charism of love and service that had been born in her heart.
Jeanne’s example is an invitation to courage and generosity. Her life reminds us that God’s call, when embraced, can transform not only one life but entire communities, cities, and future generations. The story of Jeanne Haze continues to inspire women and men who seek to transform suffering into love and contribute to a more just and humane world.
“When the heart listens to God’s call, history is transformed.” — even if that path leads through crosses, doubts, and new beginnings.
“Those who listen with their hearts find meaning even in silence.” “And those who surrender themselves in faith discover a love that never disappoints.”