Wednesday’s Woman: Blessed Anna Kolesarova

The Basics: Born July 11, 1928, in the Slovak Republic; died November 22, 1944, in the Slovak Republic; beatified September 1, 2018; feast day, November 20. Martyr.

The Story: Sometimes, it’s not as much about what happens when we say yes to the Lord as much as happens afterward.

Sixteen-year-old Anna; her father and brother; and the neighbors were hiding in their cellar when a drunken Soviet soldier found them. Her father told her to give the man some food in hopes of defusing the situation, but instead the soldier attempted to assault her. When Anna successfully fended him off, he shot her to death in front of the little group. She was hastily buried in a shallow grave.

The following week, a parish priest presided over Anna’s funeral, then began looking into the possibility of having her bravery recognized by the Church. In the intervening years, her example has served as an inspiration to Slovak young people seeking to live lives of purity.

What We Can Learn from Anna: When Anna said no, she meant no. She had a strong moral core, and was not willing to sacrifice her values even though she knew that could cost her her life. May we be brave enough to do the same when our beliefs are challenged.

Anna’s Wisdom: “Goodbye, Father! Jesus, Mary Joseph!” (her last words)

To Learn More About Anna: Visit the site for her beatification or for Domcek, an association of young Slovakian Catholics who seek to follow Anna’s example of purity.

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.