Mother St. John Biossat was born on December 7th 1821 at Marlines, and baptized the next day, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. She was named Marie Josephine.

She possessed a strong character, intelligent mind, and an amiable disposition, which made her the delight of the family circle. She developed a loving devotion to the Blessed Mother of God. She lost her father at the age of 11, and her mother at 13. Shortly after, her eldest brother, Abbe Biossat confided his beloved sister to the care of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Chambery. She was only a few months with the Sisters, when she felt the first stirrings of the call to the religious life, and resolved to follow it. She was given the name of Sr. St. John. She never shrank from any sacrifice the Divine Master asked of her. She grew up to be fervent and virtuous, and was soon put by Mother Felicite, in charge of the Novitiate. She was kind and condescending made herself all to all, and encouraged and strengthened the young ones in their vocations.

Mother St. John had an aptitude for languages, and soon she mastered English and Hindustani, thus soon she was able to extend her influence throughout the entire mission-among the youth and the education and care of young girls.

Mother St. Jophn had a deep spirit of faith, self abnegation, and confidence in God, and she was simnple and kind in her manners. She aroused the people to a more fervent practice of their religion. All cherished her as their mother as she went to visit the homes of the people.

Mother  St. John was a saintly religious, endowed by both nature and grace. She was admired by one and all as an excellent Superior and manager, but above all, for her piety and practical good sense. She remained a true mother, kind and considerate towards her Sisters, eager for the interests of the Congregation, zealous and tireless in procuring the salvation of souls. She possessed in ahigh degree an intimate knowledge of her Sisters. Her penetrating eye, enlightened by the profound understanding of the human heart enabled her to guide and help them in their aptitudes, their difficulties, joys and sorrows. She was kind to all, not only was she a mother to her Sisters, but to the Fathers as well. She was interested in them all and desirous of their spiritual advancement. Her zeal for the instruction of the youth and the edification of Protestant families was remarkable. She organized sewing classes for the social and moral welfare of young married women and widows. Mother St. John did not neglect the families and Catholic women who were ignorant of their religion. Mother St. John's simplicity, modesty and graciousness, was for a number of people a ray of light which dispelled their prejudices against convents and the religious life. But she was careful in the midst of all these exterior works, not to neglect her own interior life and sanctification and holiness of life. Above all her love for the Church led her directly to the love of God and all that he loves.

The year 1861, was to be for Mother St. John her last on earth. She died a victim to her zeal and devotedness. Her life was short, but worthy, generous and fruitful.