Theodore Ratisbonne

Theodore Ratisbonne was born in Strasbourg in 1802 into a prosperous Jewish family which was well 'assimilated' into French society.

As a young adult he joined a group of young men who were studying philosophy with a remarkable teacher, Louis Bautain, in the house of Louise Humann.

Louise Humann became the 'Spiritual Mother' to these students and was particularly influencial on Theodore's faith journey. Through reading both the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament Theodore discovered that in Jesus, 'God is Love'. He was baptised by Louise Humann in her own house on Holy Saturday, 14th April, 1827. Louise died on September 19th, 1836.

After his baptism Theodore went on to study for the priesthood, and was ordained in December 1830. After his ordination he served in the Church of Notre Dame des Victories in Paris for several years.

Louise Humann

At Notre Dame des Victoires there was a group of women who asked Theodore to found a religious order. Theodore was reluctant to do so, but the event of January 20th 1842 changed his mind. Read here of the conversion of Alphonse Rattisbonne.

 

Notre Dame des Victoires, Paris

When news of the conversion of Alphonse's conversion reached Theodore, he decided that he must do what was being asked of him by the womden in his parish who became the first mothers of the congregation. We are founded 'to witness to God's faithful love for the Jewish People'.