Julie Billiart (1751–1816) was born in Cuvilly, France, and despite being paralyzed for over twenty years, she taught catechism from her sickbed and was later cured. She founded the Sisters of Notre Dame de Namur, dedicated to the Christian education of girls, especially the poor, and was canonized by Pope Paul VI in 1969.
Julie suffered greatly in body yet never lost her joy, famously repeating, "How good is the good God!" Her life shows that illness and hardship cannot silence a heart that trusts God, and that even from a sickbed one can teach, encourage, and love.
Good and gracious God, who filled Saint Julie Billiart with joy in the midst of suffering, help us to trust in Your goodness through every trial, and to bring Your love to those who are hurting. Amen.