On May 30, coinciding with the feast day of St. Joan of Arc, who is celebrated as the patron saint of prisoners among others, former President Donald Trump was convicted on 34 felony charges in New York City. The sentencing has been scheduled for July 11, where each charge against Trump could result in four years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $5,000.
St. Joan Arc, who was canonized in 1920, became a symbol of resilience and national pride after leading France to several victories against the English during the Hundred Years’ War as a young. She claimed her mission was divinely ordained by visions of saints who directed her to support the French crown prince’s ascension to the throne, culminating in the historic crowning of King Charles VII in Reims Cathedral in 1429.
However, Joan’s fortunes rapidly declined when, instead of pursuing the complete liberation of French territories, she was captured, sold to the English, and subjected to a biased trial for witchcraft and heresy, largely due to political motivations. During her imprisonment, Joan endured harsh conditions and the threat of assault, yet exhibited remarkable composure and intelligence in defending herself.
In 1456, decades after her execution and following a thorough investigation prompted by her mother and the citizens of Orleans, Pope Callixtus III posthumously nullified Joan’s conviction, recognizing the injustice of her trial. This rehabilitation underscored Joan’s enduring legacy as a figure of patriotism and resistance.
St. Joan of Arc’s story has continued to inspire generations, symbolizing the power of conviction and the possibility of redemption in the face of political persecution—a narrative reflected in the sentiment of Bishop Robert Barron, who, amidst the verdict of the Trump trial, called upon St. Joan of Arc to “pray for us,” invoking her enduring spirit of national pride and resilience.
