THE CO-FOUNDER COMMITTED TO THE CAUSE-A LOYAL FRIEND
Mr. Hans von Matt
A Faithful Friend and Guardian of the Society of St. Ann
Mr. Hans von Matt, a native of Stans, Canton Nidwalden, and a member of parliament, was a close friend of our Founder. The Society of St. Ann was the fruit of their friendship. The idea of founding the Society was conceived in the valley of Engelberg, where both men discussed in detail ways to support expectant mothers. With a deep sense of responsibility for the less privileged, he joined the plans of Fr. Wilhelm Meyer.
Fr. Meyer found in him the right man at the right time — a person of balanced nature, calm and composed, simple and approachable, trustworthy and deeply spiritual. Gifted with talent, a strong sense of duty, and social awareness, he carried a conservative yet positive outlook. As a National Councilor, he helped frame the civil laws of the Society along with the Founder.
During his illness, Fr. Meyer entrusted him with key responsibilities, knowing his familiarity with the Society’s affairs. Hans carried out these duties with dedication until the end of his life. He wrote the Statutes and personally approached the Swiss Bishops and Rome to obtain approval and blessings for the young Society, proving himself a true guardian of its beginnings.
Though a great statesman and politician, after the death of Fr. Meyer, he became deeply involved — body, mind, and soul — in the Society of St. Ann. This was not merely out of duty. He once said:
"No work I have done has ever given me so much inner freedom, where I see the Divine Providence so clearly in every development, leading and arranging, blessing and guiding it forward."
He also prepared the first handbook for the Sisters — a treasured collection of the Founder’s letters, liturgical prayers, and daily reflections — helping the Sisters remain united in both work and prayer.
His appointment as a senior civil servant and later President of his Canton reflected his capability. Yet he remained humble and grounded, never carried away by success or authority. Among the Sisters, titles held no importance — he was simply one among them.
With dedication and sincerity, he contributed greatly to the growth of the Society. Charity became the guiding light of his later years. He completed his earthly journey on March 22, 1932, twenty years after the death of Fr. Wilhelm Meyer.