The Basics: Born February 14, 1860, in Italy; died January 14, 1930, in Italy; beatified July 1, 2010, by Benedict XVI; feast day, January 14. Teacher; woman religious.
The Story: Alfonsa felt called to be a woman religious, but she also had a love of learning. The oldest of ten children, her family’s 
finances required her to work, so she became a teacher after graduating from the College of the Sisters of the Precious Blood. It turned out God wanted her to combine her gifts: In 1883, Alfonsa joined the congregation, and for a time served as the college’s director. She then spent about the last twenty years of her life in service to the poor and disadvantaged.
What We Can Learn from Alfonsa: Different times, different ways we’re led to God. Alfonsa’s charism was to be instructive, no matter how she was called to use that gift. Are you being too limited in the way you are using your own talents to serve the Lord?
To Learn More About Alfonsa: Check out the St. Eusebio Cathedral in Vercelli, where Alfonsa’s relics are housed.
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.
