Blessed Carmen Moreno Benítez

Biography

Blessed Carmen Moreno Benítez, also known as Sister Maria del Monte, was born on 24 August 1885 in Villamartín, Cádiz, Spain. She was blessed to be part of a wealthy and devout Christian family. Inspired by her strong faith and desire to serve God, Carmen joined the Daughters of Mary, Help of Christians, a religious congregation, in Seville, Spain.

After entering the congregation, Carmen took the name Sister Maria del Monte and dedicated her life to the service of God and His people. She made her final profession as a religious sister in 1914, committing herself entirely to the charism and mission of the Daughters of Mary.

Throughout her religious life, Sister Maria del Monte had the opportunity to serve in various capacities. She began her ministry as a teacher in Sarria, Spain, sharing her knowledge and faith with the young students entrusted to her care. Her dedication, compassion, and commitment to education made her a beloved figure among her students and colleagues.

Recognizing her talents and leadership qualities, Sister Maria del Monte was appointed as the director of the Valverde del Camino and Jerez houses, where she continued to inspire and guide others in their spiritual journey. Her humility, love, and concern for those in need left a lasting impact on the communities she served.

As Sister Maria del Monte's reputation for her selfless service and unwavering faith grew, she was chosen to become the Provincial Vicar of the Daughters in Sarria. In this role, she provided guidance and support to her fellow religious sisters, fostering a spirit of unity and devotion within the congregation.

Tragically, during the Spanish Civil War, Sister Maria del Monte and many others who embraced a life of faith and dedication to God became targets of persecution. The war brought about a time of hostility towards the Church, resulting in the martyrdom of many religious individuals. On 6 September 1936, Sister Maria del Monte was shot in Barcelona, Spain, for her unwavering commitment to her Catholic faith.

For her courageous witness to Christ and the Gospel, Blessed Carmen Moreno Benítez, known as Sister Maria del Monte, was recognized as a martyr. Her life of sacrifice and devotion continues to inspire and encourage people to live their faith boldly, even in the face of persecution.

On 20 December 1999, Pope John Paul II decreed the martyrdom of Blessed Carmen Moreno Benítez, officially recognizing her heroic virtues and sanctity. Her feast days are celebrated on 1 September and 22 September as one of the Martyred Salesians of Valencia, Catalunya, and Aragón.

Blessed Carmen Moreno Benítez stands as a shining example of commitment, faithfulness, and sacrifice. Her life serves as a reminder to all believers that even in the most challenging times, our faith can be a source of strength, hope, and love.