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Feast Day: March 27
Blessed Panacea Demuzzi of Quarona, also known as Panacea de Muzzi, Panacea of Quarona, Panassia, and Panexia, was born around 1378 in the town of Quarona, in the diocese of Novara, Italy. Sadly, Panacea lost her mother at a very young age and was raised by her father. As a child, she worked as a shepherdess, tending to the family's flock.
Panacea's life took a tragic turn when her father remarried to a woman named Margherita di Locarno Sesia. Margherita developed a deep animosity towards Panacea for multiple reasons. First, Panacea refused to obey her step-mother's orders to work as she desired. Secondly, Panacea was known for her pious nature and devotion to her faith, which Margherita despised as she harbored a hatred for religion.
The conflict between Panacea and Margherita reached its pinnacle when Margherita, fueled by her resentment, committed a heinous act. One day, while Panacea was engaged in prayer, Margherita stabbed her with a spindle, ending the young girl's life.
Panacea was laid to rest in Ghemme, in the Novara region of Italy. Local people, recognizing the tragic circumstances of her death and her unwavering faith, immediately began to venerate her as a martyr. A popular devotion grew around her, and her story and memory were celebrated in local festivals held in her honor.
On 5 September 1867, Pope Blessed Pius IX officially confirmed the cultus of Blessed Panacea Demuzzi of Quarona. She is considered a martyr by the local people and is widely venerated in the region.
Represented in art, Panacea is often depicted as a young girl being beaten by an older woman, symbolizing the conflict she endured with her step-mother. Her feast day is observed on 27 March, and in some calendars, it is also celebrated on 1 May. Traditional local festivals honoring her memory often include the preparation and enjoyment of puff pastries called "beatines." These pastries are made according to ancient recipes associated with the devotion to Blessed Panacea.
Blessed Panacea Demuzzi of Quarona stands as a powerful example of faith and resilience in the face of adversity. Her story serves as a reminder of the importance of religious devotion and the courage to stand up for one's beliefs, even in challenging circumstances.