Blessed María Rafolsbruna

Biography

Blessed María Rafolsbruna, also known as María Rafols, was born on November 5, 1781, in Vilafranca del Penedès, Barcelona, Spain. She came from a working-class family and received her education at a boarding school in Barcelona.

María's life took a significant turn when she joined a group of twelve young women led by Father Juan Bonal. They served at Our Lady of Grace Hospital in Zaragoza, Spain. This group, dedicated to caring for the most vulnerable, such as the sick, mentally ill, abandoned children, and disabled individuals, later became known as the Sisters of Charity of Saint Anne.

At the young age of 23, María was appointed as the superior of the group. Despite her youth, she took on the responsibility of leading and managing the community, which often resulted in conflicts with hospital employees who resisted her authority. María faced various challenges throughout her life, including the difficult times of the Napoleonic wars when she worked tirelessly amidst the bombed ruins to save the sick and children. She even showed remarkable courage by venturing into the enemy camp to implore the French general for assistance with the sick and wounded.

Maria's commitment to her calling and her community was unwavering. She dedicated herself to gaining recognition for the Sisters of Charity of Saint Anne, and in 1825, they took their first public vows. Despite her tireless efforts, María became a victim of slander and was unjustly imprisoned during the Carlist War. However, she was later released, continuing her work with even more determination.

Blessed María Rafolsbruna was known for her exemplary virtues and profound faith. She embodied the values of selflessness, compassion, and service to others. Her life serves as an inspiration to all, showing us the power of perseverance and love in the face of adversity.

María passed away on August 30, 1853, in Zaragoza, Spain, from natural causes. Her legacy and the impact of her work continued to resonate, leading to her veneration by the Catholic Church. On July 6, 1991, Pope John Paul II declared her venerable, recognizing her heroic virtues. Further honoring her contributions, she was beatified on October 16, 1994, by Pope John Paul II.

Blessed María Rafolsbruna's life stands as a testament to the transformative power of compassion and the relentless pursuit of justice and mercy. Her legacy of service to the most vulnerable still inspires and guides those who follow in her footsteps.