Gabriel Taborin
Gabriel Taborin (1799–1864) was a French Religious Brother and founder of the Brothers of the Holy Family of Belley
See also
Roman Catholic Diocese of Belley-Ars
Brother Gabriel Taborin is the Founder and first Superior of the Institute of the BROTHERS OF THE HOLY FAMILY. He was born in Belleydoux, France, on November 1, 1799. He began his work in the diocese of Belley and obtained its approbation from Pope Gregory XVI in 1841. He died in Belley on November 24, 1864, in odour of sanctity. The cause of his beatification has been introduced in Rome, and in 1991 he has been proclaimed Venerable.
Sustained by a deep faith, he began at a very early age to work as catechist and teacher in his own, and in the neighbouring diocese, to foster the flourishment of the faith, thus participating in the Christian rebirth of France. It was a need of the times. The Church of France had suffered religious persecution and the population had suffered social disorders as a consequence of the political revolution of 1789.
Brother Gabriel spent himself above all in the small rural centers supporting elementary schools, catechising the people, and animating the liturgy in the parish churches. He was greatly attracted to the consecrated religious life. This led him to choose it for himself, and others followed him. He, a layman, founded a lay institute to be a leaven of faith among the peoples.
But he didn't feel alone in his noble undertaking because God's Providence permitted him to meet wise and friendly persons. Among them Mons. Raymond Devie, bishop of Belley, who was an inspired guide and help, and Saint John M. Vianney, Curé of Ars who helped him morally and financially to continue the work which he perceived was inspired by God.
During his life the Institute spread in France and Savoie. Open to "every good work" he loved to get involved in mission territory. He would say: "I would rather have the title of catechist in the missions than all the titles of human worth".
A son devouted to the Universal Church, he felt himself attracted to all peoples and to all individuals. He loved them as brothers. His most laborious life was spent in constant and full dedication towards his brothers.