The Basics: Born in 1562 in Italy; died December 15, 1617, in Italy; beatified September 21, 1828, by Leo XIII; feast day, December 15; wife, mother, woman religious.
The Story: Maria’s life had been humming along just fine. Born into a wealthy family of nine children, she married at seventeen. Five
children had been born into this happy union and a sixth was on the way when her husband died when Maria was just twenty-five. It upset her world. She became depressed, and considered remarrying if for no other reason than to provide her children with a father. However, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to her, and advised against this plan.
In addition to caring for her family, Maria began focusing on works of charity. She went on to to found the Order of the Most Holy Annunciation, a contemplative community, in 1610.
Maria’s Wisdom: Oh! If only I could go all over the world, always shouting: “Trust in God, Hope in God!”
What We Can Learn from Maria: God’s plans can be difficult to understand. Pray for guidance in a situation in your life you are wrestling to accept.
To Learn More About Maria: Visit the site for the community she founded, the Nuns of the Order of the Most Holy Annunciation.
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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