Marthe Robin was a French mystic and stigmatist born in 1902 in Châteauneuf-de-Galaure. After falling ill in 1918, she became bedridden at the age of 21 and remained so for the rest of her life. She founded the Foyers de charité association and was known for her deep spiritual devotion. Witnesses reported that she lived for many years without consuming food, sustaining herself only through the Holy Eucharist. Her life was marked by reported mystical experiences, including visions and the reception of the stigmata.
Life and illness
Raised in a peasant farming family, Marthe experienced significant health struggles early in life. Following a period of illness in 1918, she suffered from paralysis and vision issues. She lived as a recluse in a darkened room due to light sensitivity and mobility constraints. Throughout her long period of confinement, she remained devoted to prayer and the Franciscan Third Order, finding spiritual strength in her physical suffering.
Mystical experiences
Robin's spiritual journey included several reported mystical phenomena. She claimed to have visions of the Virgin Mary and Christ, which influenced her decision to dedicate her life to God. From 1930, she reportedly experienced the stigmata and the weekly reliving of the Passion. These experiences, along with her prolonged fast, were observed by various priests, family members, and friends over several decades.
Veneration
The Catholic Church has investigated Robin's reputation for holiness. In 2014, she was recognized for heroic virtue, a significant step in the process of beatification. She is currently honored as a venerable in the Catholic tradition. Her legacy continues through the Foyers de charité, the association she established to serve others despite her lifelong physical limitations.