The Basics: Born May 14, 1375, in Parma, Italy; died in 1408 in Verona, Italy; beatified February 11, 1786, by Pope Pius VI; feast day, April 7. Mystic.
The Story: Ursulina’s story has some of the same elements as Catherine of Siena’s, though Ursulina is much less remembered. Her mystical relationship with the Lord began very early, and by the time she was nine, she asked a priest to serve as the first of what would prove to be seven transcribers of the visions she received. 
Ursulina was only fifteen when she felt called to go to Avignon with her mother to entreat the antipope to step down. (The journey included a side trip to Provence to visit a shrine to St. Mary Magdelene, protected by a man Ursulina recognized as St. John the Evangelist.) When the antipope failed to acquiesce, the girl then went to Rome to visit Pope Boniface IX, who sent her back to Avignon. This shuttle diplomacy was not without its dangers; it’s said Ursulina was nearly poisoned at Avignon and was imprisoned for sorcery. She made a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 1396 and several years after her return, was exiled from Parma. She died in Verona, about 75 miles from her hometown.
Ursulina’s Wisdom: “”If you do not do what Jesus commands you, you will have noted your site with Lucifer in the eternal flames.”
What We Can Learn from Ursulina: Some might say Ursulina was a failure. Her efforts didn’t resolve the Great Schism, and she suffered due to a local political situation as well. But she remained faithful to the Lord’s call. What is He asking you to do that you are avoiding because you’re fearful of earthly failure?
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.
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