Blessed Eugenia Picco

Biography

Blessed Eugenia Picco, also known as Anna Eugenia Picco or Maria Angela Picco, was born on 8 November 1867 in Cresenzago, Milan, Italy. She was the daughter of Giuseppe Picco, a famous touring musician, and Adelaide del Corno. Eugenia's parents lived on the road, which necessitated her being raised by her grandparents for some years.

At a certain point in her childhood, Eugenia's mother returned home alone, and Eugenia moved in with her. Unfortunately, this decision exposed Eugenia to a morally corrupt environment. To escape these influences, Eugenia sought solace in prayer and spent part of every day at the nearby Basilica of Saint Ambrose in Milan.

Around the age of 20, Eugenia felt a strong call to religious life. Responding to this divine calling, she joined the Congregation of the Little Daughters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary in Milan, under the direction of Venerable Agostino Chieppi. On 26 August 1888, she began her novitiate in Parma, Italy, and in 1894, she made her final vows.

Eugenia's commitment to her religious community and her faith was unwavering. She served in various capacities, such as novice mistress, archivist, general secretary, member of the council, and eventually became Superior General of the Congregation in 1911, holding this position until her passing in 1921.

Even amidst her devoted service, Eugenia faced great physical challenges. Throughout her adult life, she suffered from a degenerative bone disease, which caused her constant pain and discomfort. In 1919, her condition deteriorated to the point where her right leg had to be amputated. Despite her immense suffering, Eugenia remained courageous and steadfast in her vocation.

Blessed Eugenia Picco was not only known for her spiritual dedication but also for her work with the poor, especially children. She was deeply devoted to the Eucharist and took great joy in enriching the spiritual and cultural formation of her fellow sisters.

On 7 September 1921, Eugenia passed away in Parma, Italy, at the age of 53, due to natural causes. Her selfless life of service and unwavering faith had a profound impact on those around her.

Recognizing her holiness and the miracles attributed to her intercession, Pope John Paul II declared Eugenia Picco venerable on 20 December 1999, and she was subsequently beatified on 7 October 2001. The miracle that led to her beatification was the healing of Camillo Talubingi Kingombe on 25 August 1992 in the diocese of Uvira, Democratic Republic of Congo.

Blessed Eugenia Picco continues to be an inspiration to all, exemplifying the virtues of devotion, strength, and compassion in her life of service to God and His people.