Paul RICHAUD (16 April 1887 – 5 February 1968) was ordained a priest on 28 June 1913 in Versailles. Having become diocesan director of the Youth Works in 1928, he founded the first JOC group in Argenteuil. On 25 January 1934, he became auxiliary bishop of Versailles. 1934–1935: this was the year when Father Joëssel travelled every Sunday to Montesson in the Diocese of Versailles. Perhaps they met on that occasion?

He was subsequently appointed Bishop of Laval in 1938, and then Archbishop of Bordeaux, Bishop of Bazas and Primate of Aquitaine on 11 February 1950. He was created a cardinal by Pope John XXIII on 15 December 1958. In his 1950 Lenten Pastoral Letter, he discusses the virtue of temperance and holds up Father JOËSSEL as an example of humility to his priests.

 

In his notes (late 1940–1941), François Veuillot echoes Bishop RICHAUD’s assessment: “We would give up several priests for a Father JOËSSEL.”