Saint María Del Carmen Sallés Barangueras

Biography

Saint María Del Carmen Sallés Barangueras, also known as Carmen of Jesus, was born on 9 April 1848 in Vic, Barcelona, Spain. She was the second of ten children of José Sallés y Vall and Francisca Barangueras y de Planell, who were pious and devout Catholic parents. Even from a young age, Carmen showed a strong inclination towards a religious life. At the age of 16, Carmen was engaged in an arranged marriage. However, she felt a deep calling to dedicate her life to God and serve the poor and marginalized. With great conviction, she managed to convince her family to allow her to enter the religious life. On 7 May 1869, she began her novitiate in the Adoration Sisters, a religious community in Barcelona, Spain. During her time with the Adoration Sisters, Carmen demonstrated a natural talent for teaching. Recognizing her skills, she joined the Dominicans of the Annunciation, a teaching order, on 8 May 1871. After a period of formation, she made her final vows in August 1872, fully committing herself to a life of service and education. In her new religious community, Carmen continued her educational work with great enthusiasm. She dedicated herself to providing a solid education for children, particularly those from impoverished backgrounds. She believed that education was not only a means to acquire knowledge but also a powerful tool for transforming lives and uplifting communities. The profound commitment to education and her desire to spread her mission led Carmen to found the Conceptionist Missionary Sisters of Education (Concepcionistas Misioneras de la Enseñanza) on 22 February 1892. This new congregation aimed to provide education and spiritual guidance to children and youth, especially those in need. Over the years, the Conceptionist Missionary Sisters of Education grew rapidly, expanding their work across Spain and even internationally. Today, the congregation continues its noble mission, with over 500 sisters serving in more than 60 houses worldwide. Saint María Del Carmen Sallés Barangueras exemplified true Christian charity throughout her life. She dedicated herself to the service of others, particularly the poor and marginalized, teaching them not only academic knowledge but also imparting moral values and fostering spiritual growth. Her deep-rooted faith and unwavering commitment to education earned her the admiration and respect of many. Saint Carmen of Jesus passed away on 25 July 1911 in Madrid, Spain, due to natural causes. Her virtuous life and remarkable accomplishments were recognized by the Catholic Church. On 17 December 1996, Pope John Paul II declared her venerable, acknowledging her heroic virtues. Later, on 15 March 1998, she was beatified by Pope John Paul II, and finally canonized on 21 October 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI. Although Saint María Del Carmen Sallés Barangueras does not have a specific patronage assigned to her, her legacy as a dedicated educator and advocate for the poor continues to inspire and guide the faithful. Her life serves as a powerful example of selfless service, unwavering faith, and the transformative power of education in the lives of individuals and communities.