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Feast Day: January 28
Birth: May 3, 1901
Death: January 28, 1937
Blessed María Luisa Montesinos Orduña, also known as María Luisa Orduña, was born on 3 May 1901 in Valencia, Spain. She was baptized at the tender age of two days and received her Confirmation on 18 March 1907 at the parish of Saint Andrew the Apostle.
María Luisa was raised in a devout Catholic family and grew up with a strong faith. She was a well-educated laywoman and spent many years caring for her parents. Despite her familial responsibilities, she actively participated in the archdiocese of Valencia, engaging with various religious activities and organizations.
One of María Luisa's most prominent affiliations was with Catholic Action, a lay movement that seeks to promote the Gospel values in all aspects of life. She enthusiastically contributed to the mission of the organization, playing an active role in spreading the teachings of the Catholic Church.
A daily Mass attendee, María Luisa nurtured a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. This devotion fueled her spiritual life and inspired her to lead an exemplary Christian existence. She found solace and strength in Mary's intercession and sought to emulate her virtues in her own life.
Recognized for her piety and knowledge of the faith, María Luisa served as a catechist, instructing and guiding others in the teachings of the Church. She also dedicated herself to ministering to the poor and sick, offering both spiritual and physical assistance to those in need.
During the tumultuous period of the Spanish Civil War, María Luisa and several members of her family fell victim to the violence and persecution endured by many Catholics. They courageously refused to renounce their faith and remained steadfast in their devotion to God.
Tragically, on 28 January 1937, María Luisa Montesinos Orduña, along with members of her family, was martyred for her unwavering commitment to Christ and the Catholic Church. Their sacrifice serves as a testament to their unyielding faith and steadfast love for God.
Recognizing her heroic virtue and martyrdom, Pope John Paul II declared María Luisa Montesinos Orduña as Venerable on 18 December 2000. And on 11 March 2001, she was beatified by the same Pontiff.
Blessed María Luisa Montesinos Orduña's life stands as an inspiration for lay people, encouraging them to live out their faith in their everyday lives and to be a witness to Christ in the world. Her example of love, selflessness, and devotion to God serves as a reminder of the profound impact that a faithful and virtuous life can have on others.