The Basics: Born April 28, 1866, in France; died July 9, 1900, in China; canonized October 1, 2000, by John Paul II; feast day, July 9. Woman religious and martyr.
The Story: Mary Hermina (born Irma Grivot) was a teacher for ten years before entering the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary. Despite her ill health, she burned to work as a missionary. And, sure enough, she got her wish. 
She and six other sisters arrived in China in 1899, about the time of the Boxer Rebellion, with Mary Hermina serving as mother superior. The women all were beheaded and are recognized as the Martyrs of Shanxi and are among the Martyr Saints of China.
Mary Hermina’s Wisdom: “Christ is with me, what have I to fear?”
What We Can Learn: Mary Hermina remained fearless, confident in Christ, even as she went to her death. Consider letting go of something you’re carrying around, and letting God carry it for a while.
To Learn More About Mary Hermina: Check out the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary’s site on Mary Hermina and her sister martyrs, or the Basilica of St. Bartholomew on the Tiber Island to learn more about the twentieth century martyrs.
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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