Blessed Margaretha Flesch

Biography

Blessed Margaretha Flesch, also known as Margaret Flesch and Maria Rosa Flesch, was born on 24 February 1826 in Schönstatt bei Vallendar, Mayen-Koblenz, Germany. She was the daughter of an oil-seed miller and was the oldest of seven children.

Tragedy struck when Margaretha's parents passed away, leaving her responsible for the care of her siblings. In order to support her family, Margaretha worked as a day laborer. However, she did not neglect her spiritual life and continued to trust in God for their daily bread.

In 1861, Margaretha and her sister Marianne made a life-changing decision. They moved into quarters at the Chapel of the Holy Cross in Waldbreitbach, Germany. It was here that they dedicated their lives to serving the poor and sick, caring for orphans, and teaching home management at local schools.

As their work attracted other women, a community gradually formed around Margaretha and Marianne. This marked the foundation of the Franciscan Sisters of the Blessed Virgin Mary of the Angels. Margaretha took her vows in her new congregation in the chapel of the Holy Cross on 13 March 1863, taking the name Sister Mary Rose.

Sister Mary Rose, later known as Mother Rose, became the superior of the Sisters and dedicated the rest of her life to their growth and mission of service. Under her guidance, the community flourished, and at the time of her death, there were 900 sisters in 72 mission houses serving the sick and poor.

Throughout her life, Blessed Margaretha Flesch exhibited extraordinary virtues, demonstrating her deep faith, selflessness, and dedication to the service of God and those in need. Her life was a testament to the transformative power of trust in God and the love for her fellow human beings.

Blessed Margaretha Flesch passed away on 25 March 1906 in Waldbreitbach, Neuwied, Germany, of natural causes. Her legacy of compassion and service continued to inspire others long after her death.

In recognition of her exemplary life, Pope Benedict XVI declared her venerable on 28 April 2006, acknowledging her heroic virtues. Later, on 4 May 2008, Pope Benedict XVI beatified her, affirming the sanctity and significance of her life as a model of Christian dedication and charity.

Blessed Margaretha Flesch's feast day is celebrated on 25 March, a day to honor and remember her remarkable life and the impact of her dedicated service to others.