The Basics: Born May 1, 1894, in what is now the Czech Republic; died March 30, 1943, in Austria; beatified June 21, 1998, by John Paul II; feast day, October 29. Woman religious, surgical nurse.
The Story: It certainly wasn’t safe to say no to the Nazis in Austria in the 1940s. But that didn’t concern this Franciscan sister, born Helen Kafka. She refused an order to take down the crucifixes she had placed in hospital rooms and openly criticized Hitler. In the five months between the time she was condemned to death and the time the sentence was carried out, she nursed other prisoners.
Blessed Maria’s Wisdom: “Nobody can ever take away the faith we carry in our hearts. This is how we build an altar in our own hearts.“
What We Can Learn: Maria Restituta’s faith was out in the open for everyone to see. Are there situations that you should speak up for Christ and you don’t? Pray for the strength and bravery to emulate Maria Restituta.
To Learn More About Maria Restituta: The Documentation Centre of Austria has more information about this brave sister and others who opposed the Nazis in that country.
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.
