Blessed Douceline of Digne was born in 1214 in Digne-les-Bains, Provence (modern France). She was the daughter of Berengarius of Digne, a prosperous merchant, and Huguette of Barjols, a couple known for their deep piety and charity. Their devout life had a profound influence on Douceline, shaping her future vocation and commitment to the spiritual life.
After the death of her parents, Douceline moved to Hyères, France. There, she encountered the Franciscans who had recently arrived in the area. Drawn to their spirituality, she also found solace and inspiration by staying occasionally at a Poor Clare convent. Her commitment to the poor and the sick became the hallmark of her life. Living in profound simplicity, Douceline gave away her personal possessions, leaving herself with only the clothes on her back and a pile of straw to sleep on. Her life exemplified the ideals of humility and charity.
Inspired by the Beguine movement—a religious group that lived a communal life of devotion without formal vows—Douceline adopted their habit and lifestyle. She gathered a group of like-minded women, forming a community of Beguines in HyΓ¨res known as the “Ladies of Roubaud,” named after the nearby Roubaud River. The community was dedicated to prayer, service, and living in poverty, reflecting Douceline’s deep spiritual commitment.
In 1240, Douceline took formal vows of virginity and poverty, becoming the leader of the “Ladies of Roubaud.” Her leadership was characterized by her wisdom, compassion, and dedication. Under her guidance, the community flourished, and her reputation as a spiritual advisor grew. Douceline’s influence extended beyond HyΓ¨res; in 1250, with the support of her brother Hugues of Digne, a Franciscan friar who wrote the rule for their group, she established a Beguine house in Marseille. This expansion marked a significant development in the Beguine movement and in Douceline’s mission.
In Marseille, Douceline’s reputation for holy wisdom and miraculous occurrences continued to grow. She became a sought-after counselor for people from various walks of life, known for her deep insight and guidance. Among the remarkable stories of her life is the account of her ability to levitate during prayer, a sign of her profound spiritual union with God. Although she never formally joined the Franciscans, she was deeply respected by the local Franciscan brothers and sisters, who considered her a close associate of their order.
Her relics were initially enshrined in the Franciscan church but were moved to the New Major church when the original church was demolished in 1524. Later, her relics were transferred to the new cathedral built in 1857. These transfers reflect the enduring reverence for Douceline and her impact on the Christian community.
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