Sunday, February 21, 2021 - Servant of God Julia Greeley, A One-Person SVdP Society

Another Peek into our SVdP Conference

At our conference meetings, we often share in reflection and meditation. This week, Nancy Carrales introduced us to Servant of God Julia Greeley. Julia inspired us! We hope she'll inspire you as well.

We learned that Julia Greeley, O.F.S. (c. 1833-48 –  June 7, 1918), was an enslaved American black woman freed in 1865 during the Civil War under the Emancipation Proclamation. Born in Hannibal, Missouri, Julia lost her right eye at the age of 5 to an injury sustained as she witnessed her mother's beating by their master. Julia moved to Denver in service as cook & nanny to Julia Pratte Dickerson & William Gilpin as first territorial Governor of Colorado, appointed by Abraham Lincoln. 

Former Slave,  Most Wonderful Apostle of the Sacred Heart

Julia Greeley was once referred to as a “one-person St. Vincent de Paul Society.” She was devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and, inspired by that devotion, showed the love of Jesus to the world.

In 1901, Julia became a Secular Franscican (OFS) remaining active in that ministry until  her death. She served those in need in secrecy and is well-loved as Denver's Angel of Charity because of her aid to countless families in poverty.  

A Brief Video Introduction (9:13 Min)

Learn More about Julia

An Intercessory Prayer to Julia Greeley,  Servant of God
Heavenly Father, your servant Julia Greeley dedicated her life to honoring the Sacred Heart of your Son and to the humble service of the poor. 

Grant to me a generous heart like your Son’s, and if it be in accordance with your holy will, please grant this favor I now ask through Julia’s intercession
(insert intention)… 

I pray this through Christ our Lord. Amen.