Blessed Eugenia Ravasco

Biography

Blessed Eugenia Ravasco, born on 4 January 1845 in Milan, Italy, was the third child of Francesco Matteo and Carolina Mozzoni Frosconi. Tragically, her mother passed away when Eugenia was just three years old. In search of employment opportunities, her father relocated with some of the children to Genoa, while Eugenia was raised by her devout aunt, Marietta Anselmi, in Milan.

In 1852, the family was reunited in Genoa, but their happiness was short-lived as Eugenia's father passed away in March 1855. Following her father's death, Eugenia moved in with her pious relatives, Luigi and Elisa Ravasco, along with their ten children. It was within this loving and faith-filled environment that Eugenia's own spiritual journey began to flourish.

Living in a time marked by growing opposition to the Catholic Church and clergy, with active resistance from Freemasons, Eugenia's family remained steadfast in their faith, actively participating in their parish life. At the age of ten, Eugenia made her First Communion and Confirmation on 21 June 1855, marking an important milestone in her spiritual life. She developed a habit of regular prayer, fostering a deep connection with God.

Tragedy struck once again when Eugenia's uncle Luigi passed away in December 1862. As the eldest remaining family member, she took on the responsibility of caring for her extended family. Amidst these challenging circumstances, Eugenia's brother, Ambrose, joined anti-clerical forces, causing further turmoil within the pious home.

Despite the pressures and expectations from her family to marry, Eugenia felt a strong calling to dedicate her life to religious service. On 31 May 1863, during a mission, she experienced a profound desire to enter a vocation devoted to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It was with the guidance of her spiritual director that Eugenia began teaching catechism and assisting poor girls, particularly those living on the streets. Others were inspired by her work and soon joined in her efforts.

On 6 December 1868, with the support of Canon Magnasco, Eugenia founded the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, also known as the Ravasco Institute. The primary mission of the congregation was to teach catechism and establish secular schools for underprivileged children. Mother Eugenia, as she would be known, served as the first Superior of the Congregation. Her dedication and courage were particularly noteworthy, as she faced increasing anti-clerical persecution in her region.

Throughout her life, Mother Eugenia tirelessly travelled across Italy, France, and Switzerland, establishing new communities, teaching, guiding new sisters, and countering anti-Catholic propaganda in the press. In 1882, the Congregation received diocesan approval, followed by the perpetual profession of its first group of sisters in 1884. Finally, in 1909, they obtained papal approval.

Today, the Sisters of the Sacred Hearts of Jesus and Mary, commonly referred to as the Ravasco Institute, continue their important work in Albania, Italy, Switzerland, Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Paraguay, Venezuela, Africa, and the Philippines. Their mission focuses on education, caring for the poor, advocating for youth, and promoting the dignity of women.

Blessed Eugenia Ravasco passed away on 30 December 1900 in Genoa, Italy, at the age of 55 due to natural causes. Recognizing her exceptional holiness and dedicated service, Pope John Paul II declared her venerable on 1 July 2000. Later, on 27 April 2003, she was beatified by Pope John Paul II, solidifying her position as a blessing and inspiration to the Catholic faithful worldwide.