Marie Rivier

WOMAN OF THE POOR

Marie Rivier’s innate love for the poor and the oppressed, especially the orphaned, was one of her predominant traits.  She could never resist caring for every need of the poor.  Compassion for the poor was certainly inspired by her great desire to imitate Jesus Christ and to live fully the radical exigency of the Gospel.  She saw Jesus Christ in every mendicant. 

In this painting, her predilection for the poor, represented by the youngster in the lower right hand corner, is symbolized by the red hue of her garments.  Her gesture is a gentle welcome for all the needy in imitation of Jesus Christ who blessed and welcomed little children as seen in the upper left corner.  Marie Rivier had certainly clothed the compassion of Christ for the poor and the oppressed!  Her heart was open to any heartache, any pain, or any need.

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