Rose Squad
Canossa High School, Mahim · Faith · Courage · Leadership
St. Joan of Arc
Patron Saint of Soldiers · Patron Saint of France · Feast Day: May 30
Early Life
Joan was born in a poor peasant family in the village of Domremy in France, in 1412. She never learned to read or write but was skilled in sewing and spinning. Joan was known as a very pious child, grave beyond her years, who often knelt in church absorbed in prayer and loved the poor tenderly.
Call & Voices
When she was 13, Joan heard the voices of St. Michael, St. Margaret and St. Catherine, urging her to help the Dauphin — the French crown-prince — who was fighting a losing battle with the English. She tried to resist, saying "I am a poor girl; I do not know how to ride or fight," but the voices insisted: "It is God who commands it."
The French Court
She went to the French court offering to fight for the king, but the others mocked her, asking what a peasant girl could ever hope to do on a battlefield. She persisted, finally winning the Dauphin's trust and commanding his troops.
Victories & Leadership
After years of humiliating defeats, France was utterly demoralised when Joan took command. Despite being uneducated, Joan proved to be a superb leader and soldier. She led her army to an astounding series of victories that reversed the tide of the war. The English were expelled from French lands and the Dauphin was crowned king at Rheims — entirely due to Joan's efforts.
Betrayal & Trial
The king and his court grew jealous and betrayed her to the enemy. The English captured her and accused her of witchcraft. Even in captivity, her faith and strength never wavered.
Imprisonment & Martyrdom
She was imprisoned at Rouen in cruel conditions. Her judges tried to confuse her, but she bravely declared her visions were from God. When she refused to deny them, she was condemned and burned at the stake on May 30, 1431, at the age of 19 — calling upon Jesus until her final breath.
"I am not afraid. I was born to do this." — She called upon Jesus until her final breath, a martyr for faith, courage and France.
— St. Joan of Arc · 1412–1431
Mary Kom
First Indian woman boxer to win Gold at the Asian Games (2014) & Commonwealth Games (2018)
Life & Achievements
Mary Kom is the first Indian woman boxer to win gold at the Asian Games in 2014 and the Commonwealth Games in 2018. She has represented India with unmatched pride, earning numerous world titles and inspiring millions across the country and beyond.
Determination & Perseverance
She is known for her exceptional determination and perseverance, overcoming numerous challenges to reach the top of her sport. Her discipline, hard work, and never-give-up attitude make her a true icon of strength and resilience — a champion in every sense of the word.
Her inspiring journey from a humble background to becoming a global boxing legend showcases how dedication and courage can break all barriers. Mary Kom reminds every Canossian that with heart and discipline, there are no limits to what one can achieve.
— Discipline · Perseverance · Courage