Born in southeastern France, Claude entered the Jesuits at Avignon and completed theology studies in Paris. After ordination, he preached in Lyon. In 1675, he was named rector of the college at Paray-le- Monial and became confessor of the visionary Sister Margaret Mary Alacoque. He helped her spread devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. In 1676 he was sent to London and reconciled many Catholics to the church they had abandoned. He was arrested and expelled in connection with an alleged plot to kill the king, and died upon returning to France.
