Fr. William Joseph Chaminade

Father William Joseph Chaminade was a French Catholic priest who founded the Society of Mary (Marianists) in 1817 to revive and promote faith in France after the turmoil of the French Revolution. He dedicated his life to strengthening Catholic traditions, educating youth, and supporting the marginalized. Chaminade emphasized adapting faith to contemporary culture, fostering community, and promoting Marian devotion—honoring the Virgin Mary—as a way to inspire spiritual renewal. His work laid the foundation for a global religious community committed to evangelization, education, and service, emphasizing the importance of living out faith in everyday life.