The Basics: Born October 2, 1791, in Italy; died March 21, 1858, in Italy; canonized May 19, 2002, by John Paul II; feast day, March 21. Wife, caregiver, woman religious.
The Story: It was an unusual life, certainly not the one Benedetta envisioned for herself. She envisioned a quiet life as a woman religious, but her parents wanted her to get married. When she was twenty, she went along with their wishes and married Giovanni Frassinello. After two years of marriage, they both agreed to be chaste. About that time, Benedetta’s sister Maria was in need of 
care; she was dying of cancer, and her husband had deserted her. So, the Frassinellos stepped up. After Maria’s death in 1825, Benedetta and Giovanni each joined religious orders. But Benedetta’s health forced her to abandon that dream after a year. She returned to the town where she had grown up, and began helping poor girls as her health improved. Her work drew the attention of the bishop, who asked Giovanni to leave his order to assist with this ministry. Later, the program was turned over to the bishop, and Benedetta, Giovanni, and some of their followers relocated. The group founded a school for young woman as well as a religious order that today is known as the Institute of the Benedictine Nuns of Providence.
Benedetta’s Wisdom: “When God wants something, he does not fail to find the appropriate means. ”
What We Can Learn from Benedetta: Where is God setting you down a path you don’t understand or don’t want to take? Pray for the faith to accept His plan.
To Learn More About Benedetta: Visit the site for the Institute of the Benedictine Nuns of Providence.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my book, Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
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