St. Mary Mazarello dedicated her life to uplifting and empowering young girls. Through her tireless efforts, she provided education, vocational training, and spiritual guidance, helping countless girls to build better futures and grow in their faith. Her legacy continues today, as the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians carry on her mission worldwide.
Outline of the Life of St. Mary Mazarello
Early Life
- Born: May 9, 1837, in Mornese, Alessandria, Italy.
- Family: Grew up in a large, devout Catholic family; her parents were hardworking farmers.
- Education: Limited formal education but received strong religious and moral upbringing at home.
Spiritual Formation and Early Apostolate
- Early Piety: Displayed deep religious fervor from a young age.
- First Communion: A significant moment in her spiritual life, leading to a stronger commitment to her faith.
- Health Crisis: Contracted typhoid fever in her early twenties, which left her physically weakened but spiritually strengthened.
- Consecration: Made a private vow of virginity, dedicating her life to God.
Foundation of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians
- Meeting St. John Bosco: Encountered Don Bosco, who became her spiritual guide and mentor.
- Vision for Women: Inspired by Don Bosco’s work with boys, Mary wanted to provide similar support for girls.
- Co-founding the Congregation: In 1872, she co-founded the Institute of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians (Salesian Sisters) with Don Bosco.
- Role: Served as the first superior, known for her leadership, wisdom, and motherly care for the sisters and the girls they served.
Growth and Development of the Order
- Expansion: Under her guidance, the congregation grew rapidly, establishing schools, orphanages, and vocational training centers for girls.
- Educational Philosophy: Emphasized a preventive system of education based on reason, religion, and loving-kindness.
- Challenges: Faced numerous challenges, including financial difficulties and opposition, but remained steadfast in her mission.
Legacy and Canonization
- Death: Died on May 14, 1881, in Nizza Monferrato, Italy, at the age of 44.
- Beatification: Beatified by Pope Pius XI on November 20, 1938.
- Canonization: Canonized by Pope Pius XII on June 24, 1951.
- Feast Day: Celebrated on May 13.
Impact and Influence
- Legacy: The Daughters of Mary Help of Christians continue to thrive globally, dedicated to the education and empowerment of young women and children.
- Spiritual Influence: Remembered for her humility, deep faith, and dedication to the Salesian charism of working with youth.
Prayer to St. Mary Mazarello
O St. Mary Mazarello, Faithful disciple of St. John Bosco, You dedicated your life to the service of young girls, Teaching them to live with dignity and faith.
You founded the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, Guiding them with wisdom, humility, and love. Through your example of holiness and dedication, You brought countless souls closer to God.
We ask for your intercession, dear St. Mary, That we may live our lives with the same zeal and love for God. Help us to see Christ in others and serve them with joy.
Grant us the strength to overcome our challenges, And the grace to grow in faith, hope, and charity. May we, like you, be instruments of God’s love and mercy in the world.
St. Mary Mazarello, pray for us.
Amen.
The remains of St. Mary Mazzarello rest in the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Turin, Italy, where she continues to inspire pilgrims with her legacy of faith and service.
Check out this site for more info and great images from the Basilica of Mary Help of Christians in Turin, Italy
