The Basics: Born October 27, 1864, in Italy; died April 3, 1937, in Italy; beatified October 31, 2015; feast day, October 29; woman religious.
The Story: Books about saints are full of stories about women who were martyrs or who founded congregations that brought hope and support to those who live on society’s margin. Maria Teresa’s mission in life was quite different: the community she founded, the Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, prays for priests.
Maria Teresa spent a year as a cloistered nun, but had to leave due to health issues. The next community she entered failed when the foundress died. She contemplated what she was to do, and Jesus said to her, “Give me holy priests.” She founded her community before she was thirty–despite some initial skepticism from her confessor–but it took until 1925 for the order to focus its efforts on praying for priests; for those considering whether they are called to the priesthood; and for those who are disconnected from the Lord.
Maria Teresa’s Wisdom: “I feel within my soul an impulse which spurs me on to God.”
What We Can Learn from Maria Teresa: Not everyone is called to a physically active ministry. If you feel closest to the Lord at adoration or in silent prayer, know that what you’re doing pleases Him and do not fall into the trap of comparing your worship with that of a friend’s.
To Learn More About Maria Teresa: Take a look at the site for the Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in the United States.
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.
