Blessed Jordan Of Saxony

Biography

Blessed Diana Dandalo, also known as Diana of Bologna, was born in 1201 near Bologna, Italy, into a wealthy and politically connected family. Although details about her childhood are scarce, it is known that she possessed remarkable beauty, intelligence, and a joyful disposition.

Diana's life took a significant turn when she encountered the preaching of Blessed Reginald, a renowned Dominican friar. Captivated by his words and inspired by the Dominican way of life, she made the courageous decision to join the Order of Preachers. As an act of divine providence, she was received into the Order by none other than the founder himself, Saint Dominic de Guzman.

However, despite her fervent desire to embrace religious life fully, Diana's family intervened and forced her to remain at home. Undeterred, she decided to seek refuge with the Augustinian Sisters at Roxana, Italy. Tragically, her family, determined to control her future, abducted her and brought her back home. During the ordeal, Diana suffered injuries, but her unwavering commitment to her vocation led her to escape from her family's grasp and return to the Augustinians.

Blessed Jordan of Saxony, the successor of Saint Dominic as the Master General of the Dominican Order, recognized Diana's zeal and appealed to her family. He convinced them that building a Dominican convent would enable them to keep Diana close to them while allowing her to live out her religious calling. Moved by this proposition, Diana's family agreed, and in 1222, with their support, she founded the monastery of Saint Agnes in Bologna on land owned by her father.

Within the walls of the newly established convent, Diana found solace and fulfillment. She was joined by several other sisters, including Blessed Cecilia of Bologna and Blessed Amata of Bologna. Together, they lived a life of prayer, contemplation, and devotion, faithfully embodying the evangelical counsels.

Despite her seclusion, Blessed Diana maintained an inspiring spiritual connection with Blessed Jordan. The two engaged in a profound correspondence that lasted for years, comprising dozens of letters that have survived to this day. During their exchanges, they shared spiritual insights, sought counsel, and fostered a deep spiritual kinship.

Blessed Diana Dandalo, portrayed as a Dominican nun with lilies, symbolizing her purity, and the Saint Agnes convent, dedicated herself wholly to God and her community. Her devotion, humility, and unwavering commitment to her vocation made her a source of inspiration and a worthy example for all those who sought to follow the path of holiness.

After a life dedicated to prayer and service, Blessed Diana passed away on 9 January 1236 in Bologna, Italy, due to natural causes. Her venerated life and virtuous character captured the attention of the faithful, leading to her beatification on 8 August 1888 by Pope Leo XIII.

Today, the legacy of Blessed Diana Dandalo endures as a reminder of the transformative power of faith, perseverance, and the indomitable spirit of those who seek to live out their calling in the service of God and others. Her feast day, celebrated on 10 June with variations on other calendars, serves as an opportunity to commemorate her life and seek her intercession for the challenges faced along the spiritual journey.