Father George Finet (1898-1990) was a French Roman Catholic priest best known for his role in founding the Foyers of Charity, a Catholic community dedicated to retreats, evangelisation, and charitable works. Born on February 9, 1898, in the small town of Saint-Rambert-en-Bugey, France, George Finet was raised in a devout Catholic family that instilled in him a deep faith from an early age.
From his youth, George felt a calling to the priesthood, which led him to pursue religious studies. He was ordained a priest in 1925 and began his ministry with a passionate commitment to preaching and teaching the Catholic faith. His early years of priesthood were marked by his involvement in parish work, where he demonstrated a particular gift for guiding souls and providing spiritual direction.
Father Finet’s life took a significant turn when he met Marthe Robin, a French mystic and stigmatist, in 1936. Marthe Robin, despite being bedridden due to a debilitating illness, had a profound spiritual life and a vision to renew the Church through the establishment of centers of Christian formation. Inspired by her spirituality and vision, Father Finet became her spiritual director and collaborator.
Together, in 1936, they founded the first Foyer of Charity in Châteauneuf-de-Galaure, France. The Foyers of Charity are communities that aim to spread the Gospel message and provide spiritual renewal through retreats. These retreats are open to everyone, regardless of their level of faith or religious affiliation, and they focus on deepening one’s relationship with God and understanding of Catholic teaching.
Father Finet’s role in the Foyers of Charity was pivotal. He traveled extensively to preach and establish new Foyers around the world. His charismatic preaching style, deep spirituality, and commitment to the Church’s teachings helped attract many to the Foyers’ mission. The Foyers of Charity grew under his guidance, and today there are numerous Foyers spread across the globe, serving as beacons of faith and charity.
Throughout his life, Father George Finet remained a humble servant of God, dedicated to the spiritual well-being of others. He was known for his warmth, wisdom, and the ability to connect with people from all walks of life. His legacy continues through the work of the Foyers of Charity, which remains committed to fostering spiritual growth, community, and the love of Christ among people everywhere.
Father Finet passed away on January 24, 1990, leaving behind a rich spiritual legacy that continues to inspire and guide the faithful. His life’s work stands as a testament to his unwavering faith and his dedication to spreading the love of God through service and evangelisation.