Blessed María Lorenza Requenses De Longo

Biography

Blessed María Lorenza Requenses De Longo, also known as Maria Llonc, Maria Lloren√ßa Requenses de Llonc, and Maria Lloren√ßa Llong, was born in 1463 near Lleida, Spain, into a noble family. She was married to the Regent of the Viceroy of Naples and, in 1506, she and her husband moved to Naples, Italy.

In the early 16th century, Maria experienced a debilitating form of paralysis. However, she miraculously recovered from this illness and decided to take the name Maria Lorenza as a symbol of her renewed devotion to God.

Tragically, Maria became a widow at some point, losing her husband. Despite this sorrow, she dedicated herself and her considerable wealth to serving the poor and needy of Naples. Maria's compassionate heart led her to build the Hospital of Santa Maria del Popolo, also known as the Hospital of the Incurables, where she provided care and healing to the sick.

Deeply inspired by the Capuchin spirituality, Blessed Maria Lorenza went on to found the Capuchin Poor Clare Nuns, establishing the monastery of Saint Mary of Jerusalem in Naples specifically for them. These nuns followed a contemplative life of prayer and asceticism, striving for spiritual growth and union with God.

During her lifetime, Blessed María Lorenza Requenses De Longo was known for her profound faith, unwavering kindness, and generosity towards those in need. She selflessly dedicated her resources and efforts to alleviate the suffering of others.

Blessed Maria Lorenza Requenses De Longo lived a life of holiness and service to the poor until her death on 21st December 1539. She passed away at the monastery of Saint Mary of Jerusalem in Naples, Italy, peacefully succumbing to natural causes. Today, her skull is preserved in the church of the Protomonasterum at the monastery of Saint Mary of Jerusalem, serving as a relic of her enduring faith and devotion.

Recognizing her exemplary virtues, Pope Francis declared her venerable on 9th October 2017. Then, on the same date in 2021, Pope Francis beatified Blessed María Lorenza Requenses De Longo in a ceremony held at the Cathedral of Santa Maria Assunta in Naples, Italy. The beatification was presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, marking a significant acknowledgment of her sanctity and extraordinary life.

Blessed María Lorenza Requenses De Longo's legacy continues to inspire and bring hope to many, as her life exemplifies the selfless love and compassion that all believers are called to emulate. Through her acts of charity and the institutions she founded, she has left an indelible mark on the Catholic Church and the people she served.