The Basics: Born June 26, 1827, in Italy; died November 26, 1889, in Italy; beatified November 4, 2001, by John Paul II; feast day, November 26. Caregiver, woman religious.
The Story: Gaetana never lived more than five miles from her birthplace in northeast Italy. But even if her locale changed little, her early life was full of upheavals. While her 
childhood was spent in a comfortable, loving environment, the family was rocked by the deaths of her sister and father and the abandonment of a brother. At sixteen, Gaetana wed a widower with three children. More happy times followed until her husband died while she was pregnant, followed by the death of the infant shortly after birth. Her husband’s family initially severely limited her contact with her stepchildren. After some time back with her mother, she entered a convent, but had to leave to care for younger siblings following her mother’s death. Finally, at twenty-six, Gaetana began providing hospice care for the poor, a ministry she would continue the rest of her life through the founding of what is now the Sisters of the Divine Will.
Blessed Gaetana’s Wisdom: “Endure … any sacrifice to help your neighbor in need in all that the Lord might want.”
What We Can Learn: We don’t have to go to another continent, country, or community to reflect Christ to others. What need is going unmet within a short drive or walking distance of your home? What can you do to help?
To Learn More About Gaetana: The Sisters of the Divine Will Web site has information about Gaetana and the community’s work today.
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.
