Bl. Maria Anna Sala
An Outstanding Teacher of Virtues
Memorial: November 24th
This Blessed is another example of a religious who quietly attained a high degree of sanctity by simply following the Rule of her Congregation to the letter, as well as consistently practicing the virtues prescribed by Holy Mother Church.
Born on April 21st, 1829, Maria Anna Sala was the fifth daughter of a sincerely devout couple from Brivio, Italy. In her childhood she was educated in a convent school run by the Sisters of Saint Marcellina and she developed a desire to one day join them. When she made her wishes known to her parents, they dissuaded her, citing their need for help with their large household. Maria Anna in the spirit of obedience, gave in to her parents’ entreaties and remained at home to fulfill any family obligations that she felt bound to complete.
In 1848, Maria Anna again asked permission from her family to join the Marcelline Sisters and was given the approval that she dearly wanted from them. She was happily received by her former teachers and professed a member of their congregation in September 1852. The young nun worked as a teaching sister in various convent schools throughout Italy and became noted not just for being an outstanding teacher, but also for being an exemplary religious; she was even nicknamed the “Living Rule“. Her genuine example of virtue, simplicity, and the dignified manner in which she carried herself favorably impressed all who met her.
In 1883, Sr. Maria Anna noticed a growing pain in her throat, which upon examination by a physician, was diagnosed as being a cancer. The sick nun chose to hide her condition from her peers and students, and while doing so, maintained a peaceful demeanor that masked the pain that she was silently enduring. All the while Sr. Maria Anna continued to place herself in the hands of God, trusting and praying that all was going according to his Divine Will for her.
The illness slowly progressed, and by early 1891, Sr. Maria Anna could no longer hide the seriousness of her condition. The cancer was too far spread and her health was failing rapidly. Many were surprised when they learned that she had been ill for a while, because for the past eight years, she had never complained or given any outward indication of suffering. She wore a scarf to hide visible signs of her malady. Sr. Maria Anna died in Milan on November 24th of the same year, greatly mourned by her spiritual sisters and their students.
After her death, Sr. Maria Anna’s close associates continued to call upon her for assistance and guidance… and remarkable favors were obtained through her intercession. Her Cause for Canonization was officially opened in 1920, which has so far culminated in her Beatification on October 26th, 1980. Her congregation prayerfully awaits the day when another confirmed miracle will open the door for her Canonization - let us join them in praying for one.
“Such a man will not be overthrown by evil circumstances. God’s constant care of him will make a deep impression on all who see it. He does not fear bad news, nor live in dread of what may happen. For he is settled in his mind that Yahweh will take care of him.” ~ Psalm 112:6-8
A Short Prayer
Lord, let not our weaknesses or physical disabilities, stand in the way of us serving you. Rather, grant us the fortitude we need to continue to be of service to you and to our neighbors. Amen.
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