As one of the youngest founders of an important religious congregation (he founded the Spiritans at the age of 24), Claude Poullart des Places influenced so many other young people during his short life, that he continues to 'be a role model for today's youth. Like them, he too had to struggle to achieve his dream without being fully or approved by his friends, teachers or even family.

Claude began his secondary studies at the Collège des Jésuites in Rennes (St-Thomas), his hometown. There he was recognized as a gifted and generous student. At the end of his studies, he was chosen from among his classmates to deliver before the assembled parliament such a remarkable speech (an essay in Latin) that he was invited to Versailles in Paris as a guest of the royal family.

But Claude was more than a serious scholar. He was a versatile boy, popular and admired by his peers. Handsome, gifted with marvelous eloquence and acting skills, during the three years in high school, Claude played an important role in the school's annual plays and participated in frequent concerts and ballet sessions. Outside of school, he was an avid hunter, a very good rider (no cars at the time!), And skilled in handling weapons. He even thought of joining the armed forces.
Learn more about des Places.