Blessed Alessandra Sabattini

Biography

Blessed Alessandra Sabattini, also known as Sandra, was a devout lay woman born on 19 August 1961 in Riccione, Italy. She was the daughter of Giuseppi and Agnese Bonin Sabattini and had one brother. From a young age, Alessandra displayed a deep piety and dedication to her faith.

Alessandra's spiritual journey began with her First Communion on 3 May 1970, which was followed by her Confirmation on 16 April 1972. At the age of 12, she joined the Associazione Comunita Papal Giovanni XXIII (Pope John XXIII Community), where she embraced the teachings of the community and committed herself to a life of service.

While studying medicine, Alessandra had a strong desire to work with missionaries in Africa. However, her plans took a different turn when she became engaged to a man named Guido. Despite this change of plans, Alessandra continued to dedicate herself to serving others in every way possible. She spent her free time working with the poor and marginalized, embodying the beatitude, "Blessed are the poor, for theirs is the kingdom of Heaven." Her commitment to this teaching led her to volunteer in drug rehabilitation centers and live humbly, even poorer than the people she helped.

On 29 April 1984, tragedy struck when Alessandra was struck by a motor vehicle, resulting in severe head injuries. She remained in a coma for three days and sadly succumbed to her injuries on 2 May 1984 in Bologna, Italy. Her untimely death was a great loss to her family, friends, and the community she had served selflessly.

Recognizing her exemplary life and the virtues she showed, the Cause for Canonization for Alessandra Sabattini was initiated. Pope Francis, on 6 March 2018, declared her heroic virtues, officially venerated as a person who lived a life of outstanding holiness. This important step on her journey towards sainthood led to her beatification on 24 October 2021, proclaimed by Pope Francis himself.

The beatification recognition ceremony took place in Rimini, Italy, presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro. This joyous occasion celebrated the sanctity and virtuous life of Blessed Alessandra Sabattini, presenting her as a model for other Christians striving to live out their faith in everyday life.

Blessed Alessandra Sabattini's dedication to the service of the poor, her selflessness, and her unwavering commitment to living out her faith leave a powerful legacy for all believers. Her life encourages others to embrace the Christian virtues and find holiness in their ordinary lives. She continues to be an inspiration and intercessor for those in need, inviting all to follow her example of love and compassion.