May 20, 2014

β›ͺ Blessed Hendrina Stenmanns - Religious

 Blessed Hendrina,
Pray for us!
β›ͺ Saint of the Day: May 20

β›ͺ Born: β€’ 28 May 1852 Issum, Kleve, German Confederation

β›ͺ Died: β€’ 20 May 1903 (aged 50) Steyl, Limburg, Netherlands

β›ͺ Patronage: β€’ Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit

Blessed Hendrina Stenmanns, also known as Blessed Maria Henrica, was a German Roman Catholic religious sister and one of the co-founders of the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit. Her life was marked by deep faith, dedication to serving others, and a strong missionary spirit. Here is a detailed biography of her life and legacy:

Early Life

Hendrina Stenmanns was born on May 28, 1852, in Issum, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany. She was the eldest of seven children in a devout Catholic family. From a young age, Hendrina exhibited a strong sense of faith and compassion, often helping her mother with household chores and caring for her siblings.

Vocation and Early Work

Hendrina felt a calling to religious life early on, inspired by her deep devotion and the example of her devout parents. However, family responsibilities delayed her entrance into religious life. Instead, she worked as a domestic servant to help support her family after the death of her father.

Joining Religious Life

In 1878, Hendrina joined the Third Order of Saint Francis, where she deepened her spiritual life and discerned her vocation. Her encounter with Father Arnold Janssen, the founder of the Society of the Divine Word, was a turning point. Janssen was planning to establish a female branch of his missionary society, and Hendrina felt called to join this effort.

Foundation of the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit

In 1889, Hendrina joined the newly formed congregation of the Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit in Steyl, Netherlands. She took the name Maria Henrica upon entering the novitiate. Alongside Blessed Helena Stollenwerk (Mother Maria Virgo), she played a crucial role in establishing and organizing the new community.

Dedication and Service

Sister Maria Henrica was known for her deep spirituality, humility, and dedication to missionary work. She served in various capacities within the congregation, including as a cook, housekeeper, and nurse, always with a spirit of service and love. Her tireless work and leadership were instrumental in the growth and development of the congregation.

Death and Beatification

Blessed Maria Henrica died on May 20, 1903, in Steyl, Netherlands, after a brief illness. Her life of holiness and dedication to God and the missions left a lasting legacy. She was beatified by Pope John Paul II on May 29, 1995, recognizing her virtues and contributions to the Church.

Legacy

The Missionary Sisters Servants of the Holy Spirit, also known as the Holy Spirit Missionary Sisters, continue to thrive and spread the Gospel worldwide, inspired by the example and spirit of their co-foundress. Blessed Maria Henrica's life of humility, service, and unwavering faith serves as an enduring inspiration to many.

Prayers

Prayers to Blessed Hendrina Stenmanns often focus on seeking her intercession for humility, dedication to service, and missionary zeal. Here are a few prayers:

Prayer for Humility and Service

Blessed Maria Henrica,
You dedicated your life to humble service and the mission of spreading God's love. Teach us to follow your example of humility and devotion. Help us to serve others selflessly and to be instruments of God's peace and love in the world. Amen.

Prayer for Missionary Zeal

O God,
You called Blessed Hendrina Stenmanns to a life of missionary service and deep faith. Through her intercession, grant us the zeal to spread Your Gospel and to serve those in need with love and compassion. May her example inspire us to live our lives in faithful dedication to Your will. Amen.

Litany of Blessed Hendrina Stenmanns

Lord, have mercy.
Christ, have mercy.
Lord, have mercy.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us.
Blessed Maria Henrica, pray for us.
Humble servant of God, pray for us.
Faithful follower of Christ, pray for us.
Dedicated missionary, pray for us.
Example of humility and service, pray for us.
Inspiration to religious and laypeople, pray for us.

Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, spare us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, graciously hear us, O Lord.
Lamb of God, who takes away the sins of the world, have mercy on us.

Pray for us, Blessed Maria Henrica,
That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray:

O God,
who inspired Blessed Maria Henrica with the spirit of humility and missionary zeal, grant that, through her intercession, we may faithfully serve You and spread Your love to all we meet. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Blessed Hendrina Stenmanns's life and prayers continue to inspire and guide those seeking to live a life of service and dedication to God's mission.

.

Related Post

Saints in May
SAINT OF THE DAY
Labels: , ,

Popular Posts