Blessed Louise Degli Albertoni

Biography

Blessed Louise Degli Albertoni, also known as Louisa Albertoni and Ludovica Albertoni Cetera, was born in 1474 in Rome, Italy, into a wealthy and prominent family. She lived a life dedicated to the service of others and is celebrated for her extraordinary acts of charity and devotion.

Louise married James de Citara and together they had three children. Unfortunately, her husband passed away in 1506, leaving her a widow. Despite her grief, Louise found solace in her faith and embarked on a path of deep spirituality.

Devoting herself as a Franciscan tertiary, Blessed Louise Degli Albertoni generously used her considerable fortune to care for the poor and needy in Rome. Her selfless acts of charity knew no bounds, and she often personally attended to those who were suffering, even to the point of depleting her own health in her tireless efforts to alleviate their pain and misery.

Louise was not only recognized for her material generosity, but also for her profound spirituality. She was known to be given to religious ecstasies and frequently experienced mystical visions. Countless witnesses attested to the miracles that accompanied her prayers, and she soon gained a reputation as a remarkable miracle worker.

One of the extraordinary gifts granted to Blessed Louise Degli Albertoni was the ability of levitation, wherein she would be raised off the ground during moments of divine ecstasy. This miraculous phenomenon further validated her saintly status and captured the awe and reverence of those who witnessed it.

After a life dedicated to serving the marginalized and experiencing profound spiritual occurrences, Blessed Louise Degli Albertoni passed away on January 31, 1533, in Rome, Italy, at the age of 59, due to natural causes.

The extraordinary life and immense devotion of Blessed Louise Degli Albertoni did not go unnoticed, and her virtuous reputation endured over the centuries. On January 28, 1671, she was officially beatified by Pope Clement X, who confirmed her cultus (the public veneration of a saint).

Blessed Louise Degli Albertoni continues to be an inspiration to many, her story serving as a testament to the transformative power of selflessness and unwavering faith in the face of adversity. Her feast day is celebrated on January 31, honoring her life and legacy of love, generosity, and spiritual communion with the divine.