⛪ Blessed Columba of Rieti - Dominican Sister and Mystic

Blessed Columba of Rieti ,
Intercede for us!

⛪ Saint of the Day: May 20

⛪ Born: • 2 February 1467 at Rieti, Umbria, Italy as Angelella Guardagnoli

⛪ Died:

• 20 May 1501 at Perguia, Italy • At the moment of her death, her friend, Blessed Osanna Andreasi, saw Columba's soul as a radiance rising to heaven • The whole city turned out for her funeral, which was paid for by the city fathers

⛪ Patronage: • Against magic or sorcery • Against temptation • Perugia, Italy

⛪ Symbols: • Dominican tertiary receiving the Eucharist from a hand reaching down from heaven • Dominican tertiary receiving the Eucharist from an angel • Dominican tertiary with a dove, lily, and book • Dominican tertiary with a wreath of roses, cross, lily, and rosary

Blessed Columba of Rieti, born Angelella Guardagnoli, was an Italian Dominican tertiary and mystic renowned for her deep spiritual insights, ascetic lifestyle, and commitment to serving the poor. Her life, filled with visions and mystical experiences, made a significant impact on the religious communities and the faithful who encountered her.

Early Life

Angelella Guardagnoli was born on February 2, 1467, in Rieti, Italy, to a modest family. From an early age, she exhibited a strong inclination towards spirituality and a deep love for God. Her piety was evident even as a child, and she spent much of her time in prayer and contemplation.

Vocation and Entry into Religious Life

At the age of 19, Angelella felt a calling to the religious life. She joined the Third Order of St. Dominic, taking the name Columba in honor of the Holy Spirit, which often appears as a dove (columba in Latin). As a tertiary, she did not live in a convent but continued to reside in her family home, following a rigorous life of prayer, fasting, and charitable works.

Mystical Experiences

Blessed Columba was known for her profound mystical experiences, including visions of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints. These experiences often provided her with spiritual insights and guidance, which she shared with those around her. Her visions and the wisdom she derived from them gained her a reputation as a mystic and a holy woman.

Life in Perugia

In 1488, Columba moved to Perugia, where she established a small convent. Here, she dedicated herself to helping the poor and the sick, earning the respect and admiration of the local community. Despite facing opposition and skepticism from some quarters, her steadfast faith and miraculous works eventually won over her detractors.

Miracles and Legacy

Columba's life was marked by numerous reported miracles, including healings and the multiplication of food to feed the hungry. Her reputation for holiness and her mystical experiences attracted many followers and visitors seeking her counsel and prayers.

Death and Beatification

Blessed Columba of Rieti died on May 20, 1501, in Perugia, where she spent her final years. Her sanctity was recognized by the Church, and she was beatified by Pope Urban VIII on February 25, 1625. Her feast day is celebrated on May 20th.

Legacy

Blessed Columba's legacy continues to inspire those devoted to a life of prayer, service, and deep spiritual connection with God. Her life exemplifies the virtues of humility, charity, and unwavering faith.

Prayers

Prayers to Blessed Columba often focus on seeking her intercession for spiritual growth, guidance, and the strength to endure life's challenges with faith and humility. Here are a few prayers inspired by her life:

Prayer for Spiritual Growth

Blessed Columba of Rieti,

You dedicated your life to deepening your relationship with God and serving others. Pray for us that we may grow in our spiritual journey, seeking God's will in all that we do. Help us to remain steadfast in prayer and to cultivate a heart of humility and love. Amen.

Prayer for Guidance

O Holy Blessed Columba,

You received divine guidance through your visions and mystical experiences. Intercede for us that we may discern God's plan for our lives. Grant us the wisdom to follow the path He has laid before us and the courage to embrace His will with faith and trust. Amen.

Prayer for Charity and Service

Blessed Columba,

Your life was a testament to serving the poor and the sick with compassion and love. Help us to see Christ in those we serve and to extend our hands in charity and kindness. Inspire us to live a life of selfless service, bringing hope and comfort to those in need. Amen.

Litany of Blessed Columba of Rieti

Lord, have mercy.

Christ, have mercy.

Lord, have mercy.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us.

Blessed Columba of Rieti, pray for us.

Humble servant of the Lord, pray for us.

Faithful followers of Christ, pray for us.

Mystic with profound visions, pray for us.

Dedicated to a life of prayer, pray for us.

Example of charity and service, pray for us.

Comforter of the poor and sick, pray for us.

Miracle worker and healer, pray for us.

Guide for those seeking spiritual growth, pray for us.

Intercessor for those in need, pray for us.

Inspiration to the faithful, 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 Columba of Rieti,

That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ.

Let us pray:

O God,

who bestowed upon Blessed Columba of Rieti the grace of deep spiritual insight and unwavering charity, grant that through her intercession we may live lives of profound faith and dedicated service. May we always seek Your will and trust in Your divine guidance. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Blessed Columba of Rieti's life and prayers continue to inspire and guide those devoted to living a life of deep faith and compassionate service.

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