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St. Marcellin Champagnat (1789-1840) founded the Marist Brothers. Pope Pius IX approved the institute in 1863 as Fratres Mariste a Scolis (Schools of the Brothers of Mary). The son of a peasant family. Champagnat was ordained a priest in 1816. He recognized the need for basic primary and religious education of youth after turmoil of the French Revolution. A primary school at la Vella (Loire Department) was established 1817-1824. He was joined by other brothers who organized schools in the 1810s to the 1830s, designed to fit the seasonal needs of agricultural families. A rule for brothers was established in 1837. A novitiate was established at St. Chamond, France. 
Champagnat was devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary, which is recognized in the order's name, as well as guardian angels, icons of which were present in every classroom. One of his principles was to educate young people well, you need to love them. Champagnat contracted cancer in his later years and after a painful battle died in 1840. Pope Benedict XV declared Champagnat Venerable in 1920, Pius XII beatified him in 1955, and he was canonized as a saint by John Paul II in 1999. There are 5,000 Marist brothers today operating in 74 countries. 
 Artist Patrizio Danielle designed the Champagnat stamp, printed in sheets of ten. Champagnat is depicted on the €1,00 stamp with Marist brothers and students. A statue of Mary, termed the "Good Mother" by Champagnat is included in the lower left of the design.

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