Blessed Maria Schininà Arezzo

Blessed Maria SchininÖ Arezzo, also known as Mother Mary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was born on April 10, 1844, in Ragusa, Sicily, Italy. She was born into the Italian nobility as the fifth of eight children of Giambattista SchininÖ and Rosalia Arezzo.

During her early years, Maria did not exhibit a particularly strong religious inclination. However, everything changed when her father passed away in 1865. This event prompted Maria to re-evaluate her life and consider the best way to live it. She underwent a profound conversion experience, which marked the beginning of her spiritual journey.

After her youngest brother's marriage in 1874, Maria started to put her plans for a new life into action. She decided to remain in the family home, caring for her mother. Whenever she had the opportunity, Maria ventured into the streets to care for the poor and the sick, demonstrating her genuine compassion and love for those most in need.

In 1875, Maria joined the Pius Union of the Sisters of Mary. Her dedication and commitment did not go unnoticed, and in 1877, she was chosen as the director of the Union. Now fully immersed in religious life, Maria's mother passed away in 1884, allowing her to devote herself entirely to her vocation.

In 1885, Maria embarked on organizing a new group that would eventually become the Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Ragusa (Suore del Sacro Cuore di Ges√π di Ragusa). Their primary mission was to care for the sick, poor, and abandoned. The Sisters made their first profession on May 9, 1889. The order received a decree of papal praise by Pope Pius XI on November 27, 1936, and a decree of full papal approval by Pope Pius XII on March 11, 1946.

The Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Ragusa, under the leadership of Blessed Maria, continue their admirable work to this day. With hundreds of religious sisters spread across numerous houses in Italy, Canada, and Poland, they touch the lives of countless individuals through their compassionate service.

Blessed Maria SchininÖ Arezzo passed away on June 11, 1910, in Ragusa, Sicily, Italy, at the age of 66 due to natural causes. Her virtuous life and exceptional dedication to serving the poorest and most vulnerable have been widely recognized. She was venerated by Pope John Paul II on May 13, 1989, who issued a decree of heroic virtues. Pope John Paul II further beatified her on November 4, 1990, with the beatification ceremony taking place at Saint Peter's Square in Vatican City.

The miraculous healing of Angelina Tarantino played a crucial role in the beatification process. Angelina Tarantino was miraculously cured of an "asthmatic syndrome with obstructive emphysema and severe respiratory failure" after prayers for the intercession of Blessed Maria. This healing occurred at the Mariano Santo Hospital in Cosenza, Italy.

Blessed Maria SchininÖ Arezzo, also known as Mother Mary of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, stands as a shining example of selfless love, dedication, and service to the marginalized and neglected. Her life continues to inspire and guide those who strive to follow in her footsteps.