Blessed Maria Repetto

Biography

Blessed Maria Repetto was born on November 1, 1807, in Voltaggio, Italy. She was the oldest of eleven children in a pious family, where three of her sisters eventually became nuns and one of her brothers became a priest. Growing up in a devout household, Maria's faith was nurtured, leading her to dedicate her life to God.

On May 7, 1829, Maria joined the Daughters of Our Lady of Refuge, also known as the Brignolines, in Genoa, Italy. After two years, she made her final vows in 1831. Maria had a talent for sewing and embroidery, which she utilized in the convent for many years.

As Maria's eyesight began to deteriorate, she was assigned the role of portress and gatekeeper of her convent. She became the face of the convent to those outside, while also keeping the world out. This position required diplomatic skills, and Maria developed a deep devotion to Saint Joseph, constantly imploring his prayers, protection, and guidance.

Maria's devotion to Saint Joseph led her to distribute small medals and images of him to others. Through her prayers and by placing the image of Saint Joseph over the affected area, Maria was believed to have the power to heal. Despite having no possessions of her own, she dedicated herself to caring for the poor and serving those in need.

During the cholera epidemics of 1835 and 1854, Maria demonstrated her selflessness by working tirelessly with the sick. Her compassion and dedication in the face of these deadly diseases were truly remarkable.

However, Maria's generosity sometimes caused tensions within her own religious community. Many people sought her help and guidance, causing disruptions to her fellow sisters' religious lives. Consequently, Maria was momentarily relieved of her position as portress. Believing that it was due to her own sins, she spent most of her time in prayer, seeking forgiveness and direction from God. Eventually, her superiors reconsidered their decision and reinstated Maria to her role at the convent's door.

Throughout her life, Maria had a habit of speaking to Jesus and the Father as she went about her duties. Towards the end of her life, she began to hear answers to her prayers and experience visions of her eventual homecoming to God.

Blessed Maria Repetto passed away on January 6, 1890, in Genoa, Italy, at the age of 82, from natural causes. She was interred in the chapel of her house. Recognizing her heroic virtues, Pope Paul VI declared her venerable on July 4, 1968. She was later beatified by Pope John Paul II on October 4, 1981.

Blessed Maria Repetto's life serves as an inspiration of devotion, selflessness, and unwavering faith in God. Her acts of kindness, healing, and care for the poor exemplify a life dedicated to the service of others.