Condren, Charles De

Condren, Charles De a French theologian, was born at Vaubuin, near Soissons, in 1588. His family at first chose for him a military life, but his great wish was to enter upon an ecclesiastical calling; and in 1616 he was made doctor of the Sorbonne. From that time he renounced the world, consecrated himself to works of charity, and at length, in 1617, entered the society formed by cardinal Berulle, who appointed him, in 1622, superior of the house of St. Magloire, and chose him as his director. Having become confessor of Gaston, duke of Orleans, he showed great skill in very difficult negotiations. After the death of Bdrulle, in 1629, he was unanimously elected general of the oratorio. He refused the archbishoprics of Rheims and of Lyons, as well as the cardinal's hat. He died January 7, 1641, leaving Discours et Lettres (Paris, 1643,1648): — Idee du Sacerdoce et Sacrifice de Jesus-Christ (ibid. 1677). See Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, s.v.; Biog. Universelle, s.v.