Born in Tourcoing (near Lille), France, November 29, 1905. 3rd of 8 children, the 5 eldest consecrating themselves to God in the priestly or religious vocation (2 priests, 3 sisters).

Seminary training: 1923-29 in the French Seminary, Rome, Doctor in philosophy and in theology.

Ordained a priest on September 21, 1929, in Lille, France.

Curate in the parish of Marais-de-Lomme, Lille, 1929-1931.

Joined the Congregation of the Holy Ghost Fathers, 1931.

Missionary in Gabon, first as seminary professor and director, 1932-1938, then in the bush, 1938-1945.

Rector of the Philosophy Seminary in Mortain, France, 1945-1947.

Episcopal consecration September 18, 1947.

Apostolic Vicar, then 1st Archbishop of Dakar, Senegal, 1947-1962.

Apostolic Delegate (equivalent to a Nuncio) for all of French Africa (18 countries), 1948-1959.

1955: Assistant to the Pontifical Throne.

Archbishop-Bishop of Tulle, France, 1962 January - August.

Superior General of the Holy Ghost Fathers, 1962-1968.

Founder (1970) and First Superior General (1970 - 1983) of the Society of St. Pius X.

Died on the Feast of the Annunciation, March 25, 1991.