Marie-Francoise Lacroix
Brigittine nun who joined the Ursulines of Valenciennes, martyr
Who they were
The Roman Martyrology names her on 23 October among the blessed martyrs of Valenciennes, as Maria Francesca, in the world Maria Lievina, Lacroix, of the Order of the Brigittines.
The Acta Apostolicae Sedis record that, called by God to a more perfect life, she first made her vows among the Brigittine nuns and then, when the monastic orders were overthrown, joined the Ursulines of Valenciennes and followed them to a glorious death.
The miracles
As a martyr she was raised to the altars without a miracle.
Why that counted as sanctity
She followed the Ursulines of Valenciennes to death after the monastic orders were suppressed.
The cause
The cause continues. No postulation address is published here yet. Favours received through this person’s intercession, and offers of help, are best sent to the religious order or congregation they belonged to, or to the diocese where the cause was opened; either will pass them to the postulation.
- Roman Martyrology, 23 October (Italian Bishops' Conference, Santo del giorno)
- Acta Apostolicae Sedis 12 (1920) - decree on the martyrs of Valenciennes
Checked against the sources listed on 22 September 2026. Corrections welcome.