Saint Angela Merici was born in 1474 in Desenzano del Garda, Italy. From a young age, she felt a deep call to serve God and to educate girls, believing that the renewal of society began with the proper formation of women. In 1535, she founded the Company of Saint Ursula (the Ursulines), a pioneering institute dedicated to teaching young girls and caring for the sick and needy. Her approach was innovative for its time: she encouraged her companions to live in the world rather than in cloisters, allowing them to spread Christian values through everyday interactions. She died in 1540, leaving behind a legacy of faith-filled service and educational reform that continues to influence religious and lay communities today.
Practical Lessons:
- Start Small, Aim Big: In daily life, begin with small steps to teach or mentor someone—offer guidance to a younger family member or volunteer to help in an educational setting. Saint Angela believed that even humble efforts in teaching can have a ripple effect on society.
- Empower Others Through Encouragement: Like Angela, who focused on nurturing women’s potential, make it a habit to praise strengths and uplift the spirits of those around you. Simple words of affirmation can build confidence and foster growth.
- Live Your Faith in the World: Angela’s Ursulines lived among people, not behind convent walls. In a modern context, engage actively in your neighborhood or workplace—bring a listening ear, share genuine kindness, and let your faith shine through simple acts of love.
Prayer:
Saint Angela Merici, you who dedicated your life to guiding souls and uplifting those in need, pray for us. Help us to value education, both spiritual and worldly, so that we may become instruments of wisdom and charity. May your example inspire us to bring compassion and hope into our homes, schools, and communities. Intercede for us, that we may remain faithful to Christ in all we do. Amen.
Quote:
“Strive with all your might to remain in the state of holy love.” — St. Angela Merici
Other Saints We Remember Today
St. John Chrysostom (407), Bishop, Doctor, Patron of orators
image: Pietro Calzavacca (1855-1890), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons
