Blessed Assunta Marchetti

Biography

Blessed Assunta Marchetti was born on August 15, 1871, in Lombrici di Camaiore, Lucca, Italy. She was one of eleven children and grew up in a devout Catholic family. From an early age, Assunta displayed a strong inclination towards religious life.

Assunta's vocation to serve God led her to join the Congregation of the Daughters of Saint Charles Borromeo. She became a nun and dedicated her life to serving others. Alongside Father Giuseppe Nascimbeni, Assunta co-founded the Missionaries of Saint Charles Borromeo, also known as the Scalabrinian Sisters. This religious congregation aimed to provide support and assistance to migrants, particularly Italians who were leaving their homeland for various reasons.

The Scalabrinian Sisters, under Assunta's guidance, expanded their mission to numerous countries around the world. Today, there are approximately 800 sisters continuing their valuable work in 26 countries, upholding Assunta's vision and dedication to the care of migrants.

Blessed Assunta Marchetti had a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals. Her unwavering faith, love, and commitment to serving the marginalized and those seeking a better life made her a true beacon of hope.

Assunta's life of exemplary virtues and selfless service garnered recognition through her beatification process. On December 19, 2011, Pope Benedict XVI declared her heroic virtues, granting her the title of Venerable. This recognition affirmed her sanctity and commitment to living a life rooted in Christ.

On October 25, 2014, Pope Francis beatified Assunta Marchetti, officially acknowledging her as Blessed Assunta Marchetti. This beatification was marked with a special ceremony in São Paulo, Brazil, attended by Cardinal Angelo Amato and Cardinal Odilo Scherer.

Perhaps the most significant aspect of Blessed Assunta Marchetti's beatification is the miracle attributed to her intercession. Heraclides Teixeira Filho, suffering from severe cardiovascular complications, experienced an instantaneous and permanent healing in January 1994. This miraculous intervention occurred during Heraclides' emergency cardio-surgical intervention in the Hospital Mãe de Deus in Porto Alegre, Brazil. The rapid and complete healing of his ischemic heart disease, cardiac arrest, and other conditions astounded the medical professionals involved.

Throughout her life, Blessed Assunta Marchetti fervently implored God's grace and interceded for those in need. Her beatification serves as a testament to her holiness and the impact of her devotion and service in the world. Even after her death on July 1, 1948, in São Paulo, Brazil, her legacy of compassion and care for migrants continues to inspire and guide the Scalabrinian Sisters and all those who strive to follow in her blessed footsteps.