Henriette DeLille

American religious sister and founder of the Sisters of the Holy Family

Henriette DeLille

Henriette DeLille (1813 – November 17, 1862) was an African-American Catholic nun from New Orleans, Louisiana, who founded the Sisters of the Holy Family, a congregation of nuns dedicated to the care of the poor and the education of children. She is recognized for her contributions to the Catholic Church and her efforts in advancing the rights and education of African Americans in the 19th century.

Early Life

Henriette DeLille was born in 1813 in New Orleans, Louisiana, into a Creole family. Her mother, Marie-Josèphe Díaz, was a free woman of color, and her father, Jean-Baptiste DeLille Sarpy, was a wealthy white man. Henriette was raised in a society that was racially stratified, where free people of color occupied a unique social position.

From a young age, Henriette was educated in the Catholic faith and was influenced by the religious teachings of the Catholic Church. Her upbringing in a devout Catholic environment played a significant role in shaping her spiritual life and her future mission.

Founding of the Sisters of the Holy Family

In 1836, Henriette DeLille, along with Juliette Gaudin and Josephine Charles, founded the Sisters of the Holy Family. The congregation was established to provide education to African-American children and to care for the sick and elderly. At a time when racial segregation and discrimination were prevalent, the Sisters of the Holy Family offered a beacon of hope and opportunity for many African Americans.

The congregation faced numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and societal opposition. Despite these obstacles, Henriette's leadership and dedication ensured the survival and growth of the order. The Sisters of the Holy Family became known for their commitment to social justice and their efforts to uplift the African-American community.

Legacy and Canonization

Henriette DeLille's legacy is marked by her unwavering faith and her commitment to serving others. Her work laid the foundation for future generations of African-American Catholics and religious leaders. In 1988, the Vatican officially opened the cause for her canonization, recognizing her as a Servant of God.

In 2010, Pope Benedict XVI declared her "Venerable," acknowledging her life of heroic virtue. The process of canonization continues, as the Catholic Church investigates miracles attributed to her intercession.

Impact on Education and Social Justice

Henriette DeLille's contributions to education and social justice have had a lasting impact. The schools and institutions established by the Sisters of the Holy Family provided educational opportunities to countless African-American children who were otherwise denied access to quality education.

Her work also highlighted the importance of social justice within the Catholic Church, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for equality and human rights.

Related Pages

• Sisters of the Holy Family
• Catholic Church in the United States
• History of New Orleans
• African-American history