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Feast Day: October 2
Birth: February 23, 1881
Death: October 2, 1936
Blessed María Francisca Ricart Olmos, also known as Sister María Guadalupe, was a Servite nun who was martyred during the Spanish Civil War. She was born on 23 February 1881 in Albal, Valencia, Spain.
Little is known about María Francisca's early life and upbringing. However, it is believed that she grew up in a devout Catholic family and developed a strong faith from a young age. She felt a calling to the religious life and, following that vocation, she entered the Order of the Servants of Mary, also known as the Servite Sisters.
María Francisca was known for her piety, dedication, and commitment to serving others. As a Servite nun, she lived a life of prayer, contemplation, and selfless service to those in need. Her love for God and her fellow human beings guided her every action.
Tragically, during the violent and tumultuous Spanish Civil War, María Francisca found herself caught in the midst of the religious persecution that plagued the country. She, along with many other religious men and women, became targets of persecution due to her faith.
On 2 October 1936, in the town of Silla, Valencia, María Francisca was martyred for her adherence to Catholicism. She bravely endured suffering and ultimately gave her life for her beliefs. Her death was a testament to her unwavering faith and her willingness to follow Christ even in the face of extreme adversity.
In recognition of her martyrdom, Pope John Paul II declared María Francisca Ricart Olmos venerable on 28 June 1999. Just a few years later, on 11 March 2001, the same Pope beatified her, recognizing her as Blessed María Francisca Ricart Olmos.
Today, María Francisca is celebrated and honored as a faithful servant of God and a shining example of martyrdom. Her feast day is commemorated on 2 October each year, a day that serves as a reminder of her unwavering dedication to her faith and her ultimate sacrifice.
The life of Blessed María Francisca Ricart Olmos serves as an inspiration to all who seek to live a life of faith, courage, and selflessness. Her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of staying true to one's beliefs, even in the face of persecution and adversity. May we be inspired by her example and strive to emulate her unwavering faith and love for God and others in our own lives.