27th Jul - BLESSED MARIA GRAZIA TARALLO (1866-1912)

 Born in Italy to Leopoldo Tarallo and Concetta Borriello, Maria was raised in a pious family, and received a Christian education. She made a private vow of virginity at age five 

    in front of a statue of the Blessed Mother. Made her First Communion at age 7, and received Confirmation at 10. Feeling drawn to religious life, at 22 she wanted to enter a convent, 

    but her family opposed it, hoping she would marry; however, the young man who had proposed to her died before the wedding. Entered the monastery of the Sisters Crucified Adorers 

    of the Eucharist in Barra in June 1891, taking the name Sister Maria of the Passion. Student of the Servant of God Maria Pia Notari. Served as Novice Mistress and as spiritual 

    guide to her sisters, worked in the kitchen and laundry, and as porter. Known for her life of charity, deep prayer, and devotion to her Congregation and the Eucharist. 

    She called herself, "My name is Sr. Maria of the Passion and I must resemble the Master". The beatification process commenced in Naples under Pope Pius X in 1913 and 

    Pope John Paul II proclaimed her to be Venerable in April 2004 after he had recognized her life of heroic virtue. Pope Benedict XVI allowed for her beatification in 2006.




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