May 26, 2015

β›ͺ Blessed Mary Anne de Paredes

Blessed Mary Anne, Pray for us!
β›ͺ Saint of the Day: May 26

β›ͺOther Names: β€’ Lily of Quito β€’ Mariana de Paredes y Flores β€’ Mariana de Paredes β€’ Mariana of Jesus β€’ Mariana of Quito β€’ Mary-Ann de Paredes

β›ͺ Born: 31 October 1618 at Quito, Ecuador

β›ͺ Died: 26 May 1645 at Quito, Ecuador

β›ͺPatronage: β€’ Against bodily ills or sickness; sick people β€’ Against the loss of parents β€’ People rejected by religious orders β€’ Americas

β›ͺ Symbols: β€’ Lily, in reference to one that grew from her spilled blood β€’ Skull, a reference to her rejection of the world

Blessed Mary Anne de Paredes, also known as Mariana de Paredes y Flores, was a beacon of holiness and piety in 17th-century Ecuador. Her life, marked by profound mystical experiences and a fervent devotion to God, continues to inspire believers worldwide.

Early Life and Spiritual Awakening

Born on October 31, 1618, in Quito, Ecuador, Mary Anne was raised in a devout Catholic family. From a young age, she exhibited an exceptional devotion to prayer and a deep love for God. Her spiritual sensitivity and longing for holiness were evident to all who knew her. Despite her youth, Mary Anne was drawn to a life of penance and self-denial, seeking union with God through acts of mortification and prayer.

Mystical Experiences and Visions

Mary Anne's spiritual journey was marked by extraordinary mystical experiences and visions. She received profound insights into the sufferings of Christ and the mysteries of the faith, often experiencing ecstasies and supernatural encounters. The stigmata, visible wounds resembling those of Christ's crucifixion, appeared on her body, a manifestation of her profound union with the suffering Savior. Mary Anne's mystical experiences deepened her love for God and her desire to serve Him more fully.

Apostolate of Prayer and Penance

Despite her desire for a life of solitude and contemplation, Mary Anne felt called to active ministry among the poor and needy. She dedicated herself to caring for the sick, comforting the afflicted, and offering spiritual guidance to those in need. Mary Anne's life of penance and prayer was a source of inspiration and consolation to all who encountered her. Her humility and selflessness attracted many to the Christian faith and encouraged others to deepen their relationship with God.

Legacy and Beatification

Blessed Mary Anne de Paredes passed away on May 26, 1645, leaving behind a legacy of holiness and devotion. Her exemplary life of prayer, penance, and mystical union with God has continued to inspire generations of Catholics. In recognition of her sanctity, Pope Pius IX beatified her on November 9, 1853, affirming her status as a model of Christian virtue and holiness. Today, Blessed Mary Anne's feast day is celebrated on May 26th, inviting believers to reflect on her life and seek her intercession in their spiritual journey.

Prayer to Blessed Mary Anne de Paredes

O Blessed Mary Anne de Paredes,
Your life was a testament to the power of prayer and the transformative grace of God.
Intercede for us before the throne of mercy,
That we may follow your example of humility, penance, and devotion.
Help us to embrace the crosses of our lives with courage and trust,
Knowing that through suffering, we are united with Christ.
Blessed Mary Anne, pray for us,
That we may be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ
And bear witness to His love and mercy in the world.
Amen.

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