Bl. Beatrice of Ornacieux

Beatrice of Ornacieux was a Carthusian nun in south-east France who died about 1306. The Carthusians are a strict order whose members live largely in silence and solitude. She founded a new Carthusian house at Eymieux.

She was especially devoted to Christ's Passion. Pius IX confirmed her cult in 1869.

Legend and tradition. An early account says she drove a nail through her hand to share Christ's suffering. This comes from devotional tradition and cannot be checked.

The Church has declared Beatrice of Ornacieux Blessed.

Beatification allows public veneration, usually in a particular region or religious family. Canonization extends it to the whole Church.