Violence And Personal Trama 

One evening, after a full day's work in the field, Julie and her father were in their little shop when a large stone was thrown through the window. Glass shattered around them, and then the crack of a pistol shot rang through the air.

While Julie wasn't injured during the attack, the act of violence traumatized her. Her already overworked body became wracked with pain and she soon lost the use of her legs. Eventually, Julie was unable to walk at all and became completely paralyzed.

A quiet life

Despite the pain and difficulties of her health, Julie was still able to do what she loved best in the world - teach. Adults and children came to her humble house to listen to her beautiful stories and lessons about the goodness of God. Nob

lewomen from the prosperous estates in Picardy began to join the poor peasants of Cuvilly for instructions. Julie welcomed them all, but she most loved helping children prepare for their First Holy Communion.

For many years, Julie's days were spent in these quiet routines. Her pastor, Father Dagicourt, visited each morning and brought her communion. She received her students throughout the day, happily teaching lessons, while she sewed and crocheted - all while confined to her bed.

Bravery during the Revolution

In 1789, the French Revolution broke out. It was an especially difficult and dangerous time for Catholics. The new government required all priests to swear allegiance to a civil constitution, and to sever their connections and obedience to the Pope and the Church. Priests who refused were ordered to be executed.

Father Dagicourt was one of those who refused to swear allegiance to the civil authority, and he fled to safety in Cuvilly. A new priest, who was loyal to the government, was named to replace Father Dagicourt and he soon visited Julie and tried to become her friend. Julie sent him away and told others in the town to refuse the sacraments from the new priest.

Taking such a stand was very brave, and very dangerous. Those involved with the Revolution were angry with Julie and they vowed to punish her. However, just as the revolutionists were about to strike, a noblewoman who had been receiving instructions from Julie, sent a carriage to take the paralyzed woman to safety. Yet a mob continued to follow her, and she escaped by hiding under a mound of straw in the bed of a wagon. A farmhand hitched up a workhorse and took Julie and her niece and caregiver Felicite to Compiegne.