Note: To observe the Jubilee Year of Mercy (which runs through November 20), for several weeks I am featuring women who exemplify one of the corporal or spiritual works of mercy. Today: Clothe the naked.
The Basics: Born June 6, 1837, in Spain; died August 8, 1905, in Spain; canonized October 23, 2011, by Benedict XVI; feast day, August 8. Woman religious.
The Story: Bonifacia’s life began quietly and simply, much as it would end despite some drama 
and challenge in between. From an early age, she helped her father, a tailor, with the sewing in his shop. She found a talent in ropemaking, and when she and her mother were the only family members remaining, Bonifacia set up a shop in their home where she crafted rope, lace and other items. A life-changing moment came in 1870 when she met a priest, who came from a family of factory workers and who was interested in the lives of others who lived humbly. Bonifacia began inviting working women as well as the priest into her home, and eventually an association of laywomen was formed, with a focus living lives much like that likely lived by the Holy Family before Jesus’s public ministry began. The Religious Congregation of the Servants of St. Joseph followed, with Bonifacia, her mother, and five friends taking their vows in 1874. The order’s goal was to shelter and educate women workers. Internal divisions occurred, and Bonifacia was removed as the leader. She continued her work humbly; the fissure was resolved 18 months after her death.
Bonifacia’s Wisdom: “Prayer will not be a hindrance to your work nor will work take away the recollection from your prayer.”
What We Can Learn from Bonifacia: Helping people as Christ would is what the corporal acts of mercy are all about. We’re called to clothe the naked through our charity and our skills regardless of the human battles that might surround our efforts.
To Learn More About Bonifacia: Find out more about this saint and the work that goes on today at her order’s site.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my books, Blessed Are You: Finding Inspiration from Our Sisters in Faith or Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
