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Saint Kyneswide of Castor

Saint

Feast Day: March 6

Biography

Saint Narcisa De Jesús Martillomorán was born on October 29, 1832, in Nobol, Guayas, Ecuador. She was the daughter of Pedro Martillo Mosquera and Josefina Moran. Her parents, who were farmers, sadly passed away when she was still a child. As the oldest sibling, Narcisa took on the responsibility of caring for her younger brothers and sisters. In order to provide for her family, Narcisa moved to Guayaquil, Ecuador, where she worked as a seamstress for 15 years. Despite the hardships she faced, she remained dedicated to her faith and spent her free time in prayer. Narcisa had a compassionate heart and would help those who were even less fortunate than herself whenever she could. In 1868, Narcisa made the decision to move to Lima, Peru, where she began working in a convent of Dominican nuns. Although she never took religious vows, she lived as devoutly as any sister. She spent eight hours each day in prayer and embraced a lifestyle of austerity. Her spirituality and commitment to her faith were so deep that she would often experience ecstasies. Narcisa's profound devotion to God and her exemplary life of prayer and selflessness did not go unnoticed. On October 23, 1987, Pope John Paul II recognized her heroic virtues and declared her venerable. Later, on October 25, 1992, at Rome, Italy, Pope John Paul II beatified her, acknowledging her sanctity and her elevated status in the eyes of the Church. Finally, on Sunday, October 12, 2008, Pope Benedict XVI canonized Saint Narcisa De Jesús Martillomorán, officially recognizing her as a saint. This canonization was a testament to her holiness and the impact she had on others during her lifetime. Saint Narcisa De Jesús Martillomorán's life serves as an inspiration to all believers, demonstrating the power of faith, selflessness, and devotion to God. Although she never held any official religious position, she lived a profound and holy life, dedicating herself to prayer, helping others, and serving as a model of Christian virtue. Her feast days are celebrated on December 8 and August 30 on some calendars, and she continues to be venerated by the faithful for her spiritual guidance.