Blessed Maria Gargani

Biography

Blessed Maria Gargani, also known as Maria Crocifissa del Divino Amore or Maria Crocifissa of Divine Love, was born on the evening of 23 December 1892 in Morra de Sanctis, Avellino, Italy. She was the youngest of eight children born to Rocco Gargani and Angiolina De Paola. Raised in a pious family, Blessed Maria's father ensured that all the children received a solid religious education.

After completing her studies in Morra de Sanctis and Avellino, Maria earned a master's degree in 1913. She then embarked on a career as a school teacher in San Marco la Catola, Foggia, Italy from 1913 to 1928. However, amidst her teaching career, she felt a strong call to the religious life.

In response to this calling, Blessed Maria joined the Secular Franciscan Order in 1914 and developed a deep devotion to Saint Francis of Assisi. She served as a catechism teacher, preparing children for their First Communion. She demonstrated her dedication to her mission by purchasing a projector, a novelty at the time, to enhance her teaching by displaying images that explained the life of Christ to her students.

Maria's spiritual journey took a significant turn in August 1916 when she became the spiritual student of none other than Saint Padre Pio. He not only became her spiritual director but also her friend and correspondent for over 50 years. Padre Pio's influence further deepened her spirituality and commitment to God.

In 1928, Blessed Maria moved to Volturara Appula, Italy, where she continued her teaching ministry until 1945. During this time, in 1934, she received diocesan permission to establish a new congregation of women. This congregation, based at the former convent of Santa Maria della SanitÖ, eventually became known as the Sisters Apostles of the Sacred Heart and was founded on 11 February 1936.

The Sisters Apostles of the Sacred Heart moved to Naples, Italy, in early 1945, and on 18 April 1945, they made their profession. It was during this time that Blessed Maria took the name Sister Maria Crocifissa of Divine Love. Sister Maria dedicated herself to teaching and expanding the work of the community in Naples until her retirement. Her efforts were fruitful, and under her guidance, the Sisters thrived.

The contributions of Blessed Maria did not go unnoticed. On 12 March 1963, Pope John XXIII granted the Sisters Apostles of the Sacred Heart full pontifical approval. This recognition solidified their mission and allowed them to continue their work of spreading the love of God.

Blessed Maria Gargani died on 23 May 1973 in Naples, Italy, of natural causes. Her remains were re-interred at the motherhouse of the Sisters Apostles of the Sacred Heart on 17 May 1992. In light of her exemplary life and virtues, Blessed Maria was venerated by Pope Francis on 7 July 2017, who declared her heroic in virtue. She was then beatified on 2 June 2018 by Pope Francis, with the beatification ceremony taking place at the cathedral of Naples, Italy, and presided over by Cardinal Angelo Amato.

Blessed Maria Gargani's life and commitment to the Catholic faith serve as an inspiration to all. Her deep devotion to Saint Francis of Assisi, her teaching ministry, and her role in the establishment of the Sisters Apostles of the Sacred Heart demonstrate her unwavering dedication to God and His people. Today, her beatification continues to inspire and remind us of the possibilities that lie within a life rooted in faith and love.