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Feast Day: March 17
Birth: June 27, 1818
Death: March 17, 1873
Blessed Maria Bárbara Maix, also known as Maria Bárbara of the Holy Trinity, was born on 27 June 1818 in Vienna, Austria. She lived during a time of political unrest, and due to the political reasons in her homeland, she was exiled from Austria. Seeking refuge, she arrived in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on 9 November 1848.
Maria Bárbara Maix, deeply drawn to the religious life, devoted herself to serving God and the Church. On 8 May 1849, she founded the Congregation of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, a religious community that focused on education and the care of the sick. Through her leadership and dedication, the congregation flourished and expanded its mission throughout Brazil.
Blessed Maria Bárbara Maix was a woman of significant spiritual depth and commitment. She exemplified the virtues of humility, selflessness, and compassion in her service to others. The Congregation of the Sisters of the Immaculate Heart of Mary became widely recognized for its role in transforming the lives of countless individuals through education and healthcare.
On 17 March, the feast day of Blessed Maria Bárbara Maix, the Catholic Church celebrates her life and the impact she made on the world. Her unwavering faith and devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary were sources of inspiration for many. She consistently sought to bring God's love and mercy to those in need.
Blessed Maria Bárbara Maix passed away on 17 March 1873 in Catumbi, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, due to natural causes. Her relics are currently housed in the chapel of São Raphael, located at Rua Riachuelo, 508, in Porto Alegre, RS, Brazil. These relics serve as a reminder of her enduring legacy and intercession for all who seek her guidance and protection.
Recognizing her sanctity and her profound impact on the faithful, Pope Benedict XVI declared her venerable on 3 July 2008. Later, on 6 November 2010, Pope Benedict XVI beatified Blessed Maria Bárbara Maix, acknowledging the miracles attributed to her intercession. This beatification is a recognition of her exemplary life and her closeness to God.
Blessed Maria Bárbara Maix continues to be venerated as a role model and intercessor for those dedicated to serving God and his people. Her life story remains an inspiration to individuals around the world, encouraging us to see the potential for holiness in all aspects of our lives.