Wednesday’s Woman: St. Maria Guadalupe Garcia Zavala

Note: For the next several weeks, I’m featuring women with a connection to the Americas.

The Basics: Born April 27, 1878, in Mexico; died June 24, 1963, in Mexico; canonized May 12, 2013, by Pope Francis; feast day, June 24; woman religious.

The Story: It was perhaps not a surprise that Maria would have a special relationship with the Lord;

after all, her father operated a religious store near the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan in Guadalajara (pictured here). Maria did become engaged to be married, but at twenty-three broke off the engagement on the advice of the spiritual director. That same year, she would co-found the Handmaids of St. Margaret Mary and the Poor and serve as the first mother superior. The women served those in need simply, at times going into the streets themselves to beg.

It was a challenging time to be a Christian in Mexico. The congregation’s hospital became a haven for priests, including the archbishop of Guadalajara, who were considered enemies of the state. Maria, by then known as Mother Lupita, was among those detained for a few days. Nonetheless, her hospital helped anyone in need, including some government soldiers. The grateful men then in turn protected the hospital. Ultimately, tensions eased.

Maria’s Wisdom: “Be poor with the poor.”

What We Can Learn from Maria: Being poor with the poor can be uncomfortable and risky. Maria’s example reminds us that when we are faithful, taking risks can bear unexpected fruit.

To Learn More About Maria: Visit the site for the Basilica of Our Lady of Zapopan, which Maria saw so often.

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.