Blessed Maria Magdalena Vilanova Alsina

Biography

Blessed Maria Magdalena Vilanova Alsina, also known as Sister Patrocini, was baptized just two days after her birth on April 13, 1877, in Sant Feliu de Codines, Barcelona, Spain. At the tender age of three, she received the Sacrament of Confirmation, affirming her commitment to the Catholic faith.

In 1908, Maria Magdalena made a significant decision to dedicate herself fully to God and joined the Capuchin Institute of the Mother of the Divine Shepherd. She entered the Noviciado House in Sarriá, Barcelona, Spain the following year and professed her religious vows there in 1909. Throughout her years at the Community School in Sarriá, Sister Patrocini displayed unwavering dedication and a deep love for her vocation as an educator and religious.

Unfortunately, the peaceful life Sister Patrocini and her fellow sisters had been leading was abruptly interrupted by the outbreak of the Spanish Civil War, which ensued a period of intense persecution against Christians. Sister Patrocini's school was targeted by anti-Christian forces and set on fire, forcing her to seek refuge elsewhere.

At first, she sought shelter with her brother in Sant Feliu de Codines, her hometown, but realizing the dangers she may be putting him in, she made the courageous decision to leave. Sister Patrocini attempted to find work at a hospital, but due to the prevailing hostility toward religious figures, the authorities turned her away.

Tragically, Sister Patrocini's life was cut short when she was martyred on the streets of Barcelona on July 31, 1936. She bravely stood up for her faith, refusing to renounce her beliefs, even in the face of grave danger.

Blessed Maria Magdalena Vilanova Alsina was officially recognized for her martyrdom on December 18, 2017, by Pope Francis, who decreed her as venerable. Further honoring her sacrifice, Pope Francis beatified her on November 10, 2018, during a ceremony held at the Basilica of the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona, Spain. The beatification was presided over by Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, highlighting the significance of her life and the ultimate sacrifice she made for her faith.

Blessed Maria Magdalena Vilanova Alsina, also known as Sister Patrocini, remains an inspiring example of unwavering faith and dedication to God in the face of adversity. Her life reminds us of the importance of standing up for what we believe in, even when faced with persecution and hardship.