The Basics: Born May 4, 1254, in Italy; died October 30, 1292, in Italy; beatified February 6, 1763, by Clement XIV; feast day, October 30; lay woman.
The Story: The story goes that Benvenuta’s father was somewhat disappointed to find he and his wife had had a seventh daughter, but shook it off quickly, proclaiming, “She too shall be welcome!” And that is how she got her name.
Benvenuta took self-mortification seriously. She bound herself so tightly with a rope girdle that after a time, it could not be removed–until 
she prayed for the Lord to do so. She also took praying seriously, as a child offering up a thousand Hail Marys daily to the Blessed Virgin, and hundreds of additional Hail Marys and Our Fathers each day for specific intentions.
This lay Dominican did not have an easy life. She experienced visions of both angels and demons, and fasts and lack of sleep took their toll on her, including a five-year period in which she was bedridden. Nonetheless, those who knew her described her as perpetually sweet and positive.
Benvenuta’s Wisdom: “It is much better to be young in paradise than to be old in hell.”
What We Can Learn from Benvenuta: Our crosses feel heavy from time to time. But that does not mean we need to inflict our pain on others. Consider praying with Benvenuta or another saint rather than complaining to those on earth about your difficulties.
To Learn More About Benvenuta: Read about her in Short Lives of the Dominican Saints.
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.
