Blessed Cecilia Attendoli Of Cotignola

Biography

Blessed Cecilia Attendoli of Cotignola, also known as Cecilia Codignola of Vigevano, was a renowned Poor Clare nun who dedicated her life to God in the monastery of Santa Chiara in Mortara, Italy. Although not much is known about her, historical accounts testify to her exemplary virtues and remarkable reputation as a miracle worker.

Cecilia was likely born in the latter part of the 15th century in the town of Cotignola, Italy. From a young age, she exhibited a deep devotion to her faith and a desire to serve others. With the passage of time, she felt a calling to join the Order of Poor Clares, a contemplative religious order dedicated to a life of poverty, prayer, and service.

Taking the religious name Cecilia, she entered the monastery of Santa Chiara in Mortara, where she embraced the Franciscan charism and dedicated herself to a life of poverty, simplicity, and self-sacrifice. Within the convent walls, Cecilia's radiant spirituality and unwavering faith became evident to all who encountered her. She was known for her piety, humility, and deep love for God and her fellow sisters.

Cecilia's spiritual life was marked by a profound devotion to the Eucharist and a fervent prayer life. She would often spend hours in contemplation, communing with God and seeking His guidance and grace. It is said that her prayers were accompanied by such deep concentration that she often seemed transported to a state of ecstasy, communing intimately with God.

Throughout her religious life, Cecilia was believed to possess the gift of performing miracles. Many sought her intercession for various ailments, and numerous accounts speak of miraculous healings attributed to her prayers. These miracles served as a testament to her great holiness and the divine favor she enjoyed.

On March 29, 1531, Blessed Cecilia Attendoli of Cotignola passed away peacefully, having served her Lord faithfully until the end. She died of natural causes, leaving behind a legacy of sanctity and devotion. Her death, like her life, was a testament to her intimate union with God and her longing for eternal life.

Although not officially recognized as a saint by the Catholic Church, Blessed Cecilia Attendoli of Cotignola is venerated for her holy life and is remembered on March 29 in the Franciscan Martyrology. Her example of faith, humility, and unwavering devotion continues to inspire and uplift believers even today.