Saint Angela Merici

St. Angela Merici is the Patron Saint of the sick, physically challenged people, and those grieving the loss of parents. She was born in Desenzano, Italy, on March 21, 1474. Her home was a true spiritual sanctuary; they lived in unity and love, contemplating God and praying daily. Among the lives of the saints, her father told her, the biography of St. Ursula made a remarkable impression on little Angela Merici and inspired her to follow her faith. Orphaned young, she went to Salo to live in her uncle's home. Angela moved back to her family home in Desenzano when her uncle died to begin a new life as a lay Franciscan. She spent her days in prayer, fasting, and service. Angela gained a reputation for her wisdom, attracting people from all walks of life seeking her guidance. Angela lost her sight during a pilgrimage to the Holy Land in 1524. However, she continued to visit the sacred shrines, perceiving them with her spirit. She miraculously regained her sight upon leaving the Holy Land. Upon returning to Italy, Angela became a refuge for those affected by war and gathered unmarried women to form the "Company of St. Ursula" in 1535, later known as the Ursulines. The Company of Saint Ursula was the first secular institute for laity in the history of the Church. She was elected superior of the institute in 1537. After founding the order, she wrote Testament and Souvenirs, in which she directed her nuns to emphasize gentleness, the significance of the individual, and the consequence of using persuasion over force. Merici became ill toward the end of 1539, but even while sick, she continued to receive visitors and hold religious discourse with them. She died in Brescia, Italy, on January 27, 1540. Angela was canonized on January 24, 1807, by Pope Pius VII. 

St. Angela Merici, you devoted your life to caring for your spiritual children; intercede for us to care for those God has placed in our lives.

Jonathan Fabian Ginunggil,
Most High Servant,
Jesus, Mary, Joseph Ministry of Love 
(Blessed  and Saints and the Nine Choirs of Angels)