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Feast Day: March 18
Birth: December 2, 1816
Death: March 1, 18
Blessed Aiméeadèle Le Bouteiller, also known as Amata Adele, Marta, Martha, and Marthe, was born on 2 December 1816 in Percy, France. She was the third of four children of Andrea and Maria Francesca Le Bouteiller Morel. The Le Bouteiller family were farmers and linen weavers, and unfortunately, Aimée-Adèle's father died of tuberculosis when she was just 10 years old.
At around the age of 20, Aimée-Adèle left her family and went to work as a maid. However, her life took a transformative turn when she joined the Sisters of the Christian Schools of Mercy at the Abbey of Saint-Sauveur-le-Vicomte on 19 March 1841. She made her profession as a religious sister on 14 September 1842, taking on the name Sister Martha. During her time as a novice, her mentor was the Blessed Placide Viel, a highly regarded figure within the abbey.
Within the abbey, Sister Martha dedicated herself to various roles and responsibilities. Her service extended to the kitchen, where she prepared meals for her fellow sisters and the guests of the house. Additionally, Sister Martha worked in the fields and the wine cellar, tending to the needs of the community. A remarkable aspect of Sister Martha's story is the legend that claims her prayers were responsible for ensuring that the cellars of the abbey never ran dry.
Sister Martha exemplified her faith by serving approximately 250 people a day during peacetime and an astonishing 500 people a day during times of war. Her dedication to her duties went hand in hand with her mission to inspire and strengthen the faith of those she served. By offering them drink, she not only quenched their physical thirst but also provided spiritual comfort and encouragement.
After a life of faithful service, Blessed Aiméeadèle Le Bouteiller passed away on Palm Sunday, 18 March 1883, at the Saint Sauveur-le-Vicomte Abbey in Normandy, France. She died from a stroke, leaving behind a legacy of devotion and selflessness.
The extraordinary life and virtues displayed by Sister Martha did not go unnoticed. On 24 September 1983, Pope John Paul II decreed her veneration in recognition of her heroic virtues. Then, on 4 November 1990, Pope John Paul II beatified her, officially declaring her as Blessed Aiméeadèle Le Bouteiller. This beatification serves as a testament to the impact and significance of her life within the Catholic Church.
Blessed Aiméeadèle Le Bouteiller's life story reflects her deep faith, unwavering dedication, and selfless service to others. Her example continues to inspire and remind us of the power of prayer, the importance of humble service, and the profound impact even one individual can have on the lives of many.