Jean-Claude Colin was the founder of the Marist Fathers – priests and brothers of the Society of Mary. Born at the close of the 18th century in revolution-torn France, Jean-Claude was convinced that the Blessed Virgin wanted a group of men and women to do her work in the world at a time of turmoil and challenge.

As the father of the blossoming group of missionaries Fr Colin won the affection and respect of the pioneer Marists as the infant Society of Mary, under his leadership as superior general, expanded in numbers, ministries and extraordinary missionary influence.

Jean-Claude Colin SM was the founder of the Marist Fathers – priests and brothers of the Society of Mary

Fr. Jean-Claude Colin, SM was the founder of the Marist Fathers of the Society of Mary. He was ordained a priest in 1816 and believed that the Blessed Mother wanted a group of men and women to do her work in the world.

The still shy Jean-Claude Colin was sent to the parish of his older brother, Fr Pierre Colin, in the village of Cerdon, nestling high in the Bugey mountains in the newly-restored diocese of …

Under the direction of Fr. Colin, SM the Marists expanded their mission and ministry by serving those least capable of helping themselves. This became a Marist trait that helped characterize the Society as it grew into a global missionary force centered in Marian spirituality.

As the father of the blossoming group of missionaries Fr Colin won the affection and respect of the pioneer Marists as the infant Society of Mary, under his leadership as superior general, expanded in numbers, ministries and extraordinary missionary influence.

Nov 15, 2024 · The Society of Mary's worldwide community continues to press forward on the beatification and canonization of Founder Fr. Jean-Claude Colin, s.m. Frieze at the Basilica of Our Lady of Fourviere in Lyon, France, where the Marists made their pledge in July 1816.

Dec 1, 2020 · Jean-Claude Colin died at La Neylière on 15 November 1875 at the age of 85. Today his giant strides for the beloved Society of Mary inspire young people of the world -- and the Marists of today -- to continue the work of Mary: simply, generously and in her gentle spirit.

Fr Auguste Detours 1837 -1895, was a great researcher and had conducted a private research about Fr Colin. He took copious notes from his questioning of people who had known Colin, Chavoin and Champagnat.