Blessed Klara Szczesna

Biography

Blessed Klara Szczƒôsna, also known as Sister Ludwika, was born on 18 July 1863 in Cieszki, Lubowidz, Zuromin, Poland. She was the sixth of seven children born to Anthony and Frances, née Skorupska. Klara was baptized in the parish church in Lubowidz and received her early education at home, where her mother played a vital role. Unfortunately, when Klara was only 12 years old, her mother passed away.

As Klara grew older, her father began pressuring her to get married. However, Klara felt a strong desire to dedicate her life to God and His service. At the age of 17, she left her home in pursuit of her calling. For the next five years, Klara worked as a seamstress in Mlawa, Poland, to support herself.

During her time in Mlawa, Klara became a spiritual student of Blessed Honorat Kozminski, who guided her in deepening her faith and understanding of God's will for her life. It was under his influence that she made the decision to join the Servants of Jesus in 1885. Klara worked as a tailor for the Servants and also served as the superior to the local community.

Later on, Klara was assigned to run a shelter for young women in Kraków, Poland. It was here that she met Saint Joseph Sebastian Pelczar, and together they founded the Sister Servants of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus on 15 April 1894. Upon entering the religious community, Klara took the name Klara to signify her devotion and commitment.

Mother Klara, as she came to be known, served as the Servants' first superior-general. She dedicated her life to building a strong foundation for the community, opening 30 houses, and sending the Servants to serve the sick, girls, and young women in need. She also played a vital role in establishing shelters and schools throughout Poland. Mother Klara served as an example of a humble and devoted life, inspiring all the Servants to follow her footsteps.

Blessed Klara Szczƒôsna's feast day is celebrated on 7 February each year. Her holiness and exemplary life were recognized by Pope Benedict XVI on 20 December 2012 when he declared her venerable, acknowledging her heroic virtues. Later, on 27 September 2015, Pope Francis beatified her, signifying her beatitude and elevation to the status of Blessed. The beatification recognition Mass was joyfully celebrated at the John Paul II Sanctuary in Kraków, Poland, with Cardinal Angelo Amato officiating.

Blessed Klara Szczƒôsna's life and work continue to be an inspiration to many, a testament to her selfless dedication and unwavering faith in serving the most vulnerable members of society. Her legacy lives on through the Sister Servants of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, who continue to follow her example in their mission of love, service, and compassion.