Anne Bourdon was a 17th-century Ursuline nun living in New France. Born in Quebec City in 1644 to the colony's attorney general, she entered the Ursuline order as a novice at age 14. After taking her vows, she became known as Mère de Sainte-Agnès. She eventually became the first person born in Canada to serve as the superior of the Ursuline congregation in that region. Throughout her religious life, she held various important roles, including secretary and mistress of novices.
Religious life
After joining the Ursulines, Anne studied indigenous languages under Marie of the Incarnation. She served the community in several capacities, acting as secretary, assistant superior, and depositary. Notably, when a fire destroyed the community's records in 1686, she used her memory to rebuild the archives. She was elected as the superior of the congregation in June 1700.
Death and status
Anne Bourdon passed away in Quebec City in 1711 at the age of 67 due to pleurisy. Within the Catholic tradition, she is recognized as a venerable figure. Her life is remembered for her leadership within the Ursuline order in the Canadian colony.