First years of religious life

Sister St. Theodore spent her initial formation at the motherhouse in Ruillé before she was sent out on mission. Her time at Ruillé was difficult because she became extremely sick and nearly died. Her only hope for recovery was a remedy that forever damaged her digestive system. Due to this cure, she was never able to eat solid foods and existed on only soft foods and liquids. Recurring illnesses from this malady would plague her the rest of her life.

Due to the devastating after effects of the French Revolution, women religious were needed in the mission field. Sister St. Theodore was one of many postulants who received the religious dress and was sent out on mission.

In January 1825, Sister St. Theodore was sent to teach at Preuilly-sur-Claise in a school of the Sisters of Providence of Ruillé. On Sept. 6, 1825, she canonically received the habit and on Sept. 8 pronounced first vows. She then returned to Preuilly to complete the academic year.

initial formation French Revolution habit first vows