Mélodie Dufresne: A Pioneer with Remarkable Artistic Talent
Born on November 9, 1809, in Beloeil, Mélodie Dufresne, who became Mother Marie-Agnès, played a key role in founding the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM). A devoted companion of Eulalie Durocher, she also distinguished herself through her artistic talents and her contribution to arts education.
A Faithful Companion of Eulalie Durocher
For about ten years, Mélodie shared daily life with Eulalie Durocher at the Beloeil presbytery. Their close friendship, rooted in shared values and aspirations, prepared them to embark together on a journey that would leave a lasting mark on the history of education in Quebec.
In October 1843, when Bishop Ignace Bourget invited Eulalie to establish a teaching religious congregation in Longueuil, Mélodie readily agreed to join the project.
Together with Henriette Céré, who was already teaching at the École de la Fabrique in Longueuil, they became the three pioneers of the Congregation founded on October 28, 1843.
On December 8, 1844, Mélodie professed her vows alongside her two companions and took the religious name Sister Marie-Agnès.
Art and Creativity in the Service of Education
The ornaments on this white chasuble were made by Mother Marie-Agnès. Source S0003 — Service des archives SNJM
Gifted with great artistic sensitivity and an appreciation for beauty, Mother Marie-Agnès helped enrich the education offered to students, particularly in domestic arts and fine arts.
Her talents were also reflected in her own creations. She produced numerous works, including priestly vestments, floral arrangements, and various decorative objects.
Several of her creations have been preserved in the SNJM archives, while others were displayed for many years at the Marie-Rose Centre, offering a glimpse of her remarkable craftsmanship.
A Faithful Guardian of the Foundress’s Spirit
The untimely death of Mother Marie-Rose in 1849 affected her deeply. Despite this loss, Mother Marie-Agnès remained dedicated to the Congregation and helped preserve the Foundress’s spirit within the young religious community.
She passed away on December 22, 1881, at the age of 72, leaving behind the memory of a woman whose loyalty, creativity, and dedication shaped the early decades of the SNJM.
To learn more, read her biography in the section dedicated to the Congregation’s pioneers