Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Zofia Czeska-Maciejowska

The Basics: Born in 1584 in Poland; died in 1650 in Poland; beatified June 9, 2013, by Francis; feast day, April 1; woman religious and educator.

The Story: At the age of thirty, Zofia found herself widowed and without parents. As part of his will, her father left her a share of a

family house in Krakow, about two hundred miles from the village where Zofia had grown up.  Over the next several years, she arranged to buy out her siblings’ interest in the home, as she had a desire to start a school for poor and orphaned girls, something that to that did not exist in Poland. In 1621, Zofia’s dream became a reality. The girls received a basic education along with learning practical skills such as housekeeping and spinning.

For the next six years, Zofia ran the school despite challenges with funding and widespread illness in the area. At that time, she received formal approval to begin organizing a congregation to be known as the Virgins of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The congregation’s rule was approved ten years after Zofia’s death, and continues to help young women today.

What We Can Learn from Zofia: After a time of mourning and grieving following losses, we must trust the Lord does have a plan for us. Is there a nudging at your soul that you are pushing aside?

To Learn More About Zofia: Visit the site her congregation maintains that is devoted to sharing Zofia’s life story.

To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my books, Blessed Are You: Finding Inspiration from Our Sisters in Faith or Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.