Paris and Beyond

Abstract

Religious wars hindered the initial efforts of Jean de Brétigny to establish a Discalced Carmelite convent in France. However, Pierre Bérulle, future confessor to the King and member of the reformist spiritual circle known as Paris dévot, favored the project. In October 1604, Ana Jesús founded and became prioress of the first Discalced Carmelite convent in Paris. When Bérulle decided to establish a second convent in Pontoise, he chose Ana de San Bartolomé to head it. In order to comply, Ana, a white-veiled nun (one who did menial labor), would have to take the black veil. Despite the opposition of Ana de Jesús, Ana de San Bartolomé acceded to Bérulle’s demands and founded in Pontoise.