On Epiphany in 1412, Joan of Arc was born in Domrémy (now Domrémy-la-Pucelle) in Lorraine.Already, I am sure, news has reached your ears of a certain Maid, sent to us, as we devoutly believe, by God, and in order that I may briefly set forth her life, deeds, station and character, and shall first tell of her origin. She was born in the small village of Domremy, in the country of Bar, within the confines of the Kingdom of France, on the river Meuse, near Lorraine, of upright and simple parents. It was during the night of the Epiphany of Our Lord (January 6, Twelfth Night), when men are wont most joyfully to recall the acts of Christ that she first saw the light in this mortal life. And, wonderful to relate, the poor inhabitants of the place were seized with an inconceivable joy. And though ignorant of the birth of the Maid, they rushed hither and thither in search of what might be the new event. Their hearts as one were conscious of a new gladness. What can one add? The cocks like heralds of a new joy, against their wont, burst forth in songs not heard before, and with flapping wings for more than two hours appeared to foretell this new event.
--Percival de Boullainvilliers writing to the Duke of Milan. More of his letter may be found here.
More testimonies of her birth may be found here. Also, here is an image of the place where she was born.
It is indeed rather appropriate that, France having been born on Christmas, her greatest defender should be born on Little Christmas.
Noël! Noël!
Ste. Jeanne, priez pour nous.
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