Blessed Maria Bagnesi

Biography

Blessed Maria Bagnesi, also known as Bartholomaea Bagnesi, was born on August 15, 1514, in Florence, Italy. She was a happy and beautiful child, although frequently neglected by her mother who often left her to the care of others. One of her caretakers was her sister, who happened to be a Dominican nun. It was in her sister's convent where Maria experienced some of her best moments, and it greatly influenced her later spiritual journey.

As Maria grew older, her father arranged a marriage for her, which she vehemently opposed. The thought of marriage made her so sick that she eventually became bedridden and unable to walk. Unfortunately, her father was easily influenced by questionable medical practices and put her through 34 years of ineffective treatments prevalent in the 16th century.

Despite her physical limitations, Maria became a Dominican tertiary in 1544. She made her formal profession in 1545 and, although she experienced brief periods of mobility, her health issues persisted due to pleurisy, asthma, kidney disease, and the continued reliance on dubious treatments.

During her confinement, Maria began having extraordinary experiences, including visions, and conversations with angels, devils, and saints. These encounters alarmed her neighbors, who suspected she was possessed. However, a local priest became her spiritual advisor and reassured the community that Maria was not under the influence of the devil.

With the priest's affirmation, Maria's room became a place of pilgrimage for the locals seeking her wisdom and tranquility. Additionally, she found a special affinity for animals, particularly cats, who seemed to be drawn to her presence. Cats would often stay in her room, sleep on her bed, and even safeguard her pet songbirds. On one occasion, a cat even fetched her some cheese when she felt hungry.

During her spiritual journey, Maria developed a deep devotion to Saint Bartholomew the Apostle, adding his name to hers. As her visions and ecstasies became more frequent, she delved deeper into mystical conversations and focused on the glorious and sorrowful mysteries. Witnesses even claimed to have seen her levitate. Additionally, Maria formed a spiritual bond with Saint Mary Magdalen of Pazzi, with whom she shared her visions.

Blessed Maria Bagnesi passed away on May 28, 1577, in Florence, Italy, from natural causes. Although she was not officially canonized, she was beatified on July 11, 1804, by Pope Pius VII, confirming her cultus and recognizing her as a blessed within the Catholic Church. Throughout her life, Maria displayed remarkable resilience and a profound spiritual connection, despite her physical limitations and challenging circumstances. Her enduring devotion to the faith serves as an inspiration to all who encounter her story.