Pierre Goursat was a French Catholic layman born in Paris in 1914 who founded the Emmanuel Community. After a transformative experience with illness in his youth, he dedicated himself to evangelization through media, serving as the secretary of the Catholic Film Office for nearly two decades. In 1972, he co-founded a prayer group with Martine Catta, which evolved into an international religious movement. He led the community as its moderator until 1985, focusing on eucharistic adoration and spreading the faith.
Life and ministry
Following his studies in art history and archaeology, Goursat worked extensively in the media sector. He managed a family pension for several years before focusing on film criticism and Christian media. His spiritual path was deeply influenced by his relationship with Cardinal Suhard and his commitment to the Legio Mariae. He remained active in the community's leadership until health issues led him to step down from his role as moderator.
Veneration
Recognized as a servant of God, Goursat is honored for his heroic virtue and his role in the charismatic renewal. His cause for beatification was officially opened in 2010, and the documentation regarding his life was confirmed by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in 2017. He is buried in Paray-le-Monial, the spiritual center of the Emmanuel Community.