Blessed Margaret Colonna

Biography

Blessed Margaret Colonna, also known as Margaret of Cortona, Margarita, Margherita, or Marguerite, was born around 1255 in Palestrina, Rome, Italy. She was the daughter of Prince Odo Colonna of Palestrina, but tragically lost both her parents at a young age. As the eldest sibling, Margaret took on the responsibility of caring for her two brothers, one of whom would later become Cardinal James Colonna in 1278.

Despite a marriage proposal from the chief magistrate of Rome, Margaret chose a different path and decided to retire from the world. She transformed her family castle near Palestrina into a place of retreat, dedicated to a life of piety and penance. Margaret is particularly remembered for her acts of charity towards the poor, which were said to have been miraculously rewarded on multiple occasions.

Through the influential connections of her brother, Cardinal James Colonna, Margaret gained papal approval for a community of Urbanist Poor Clares at her castle. She became the superioress of this community and dedicated herself to their spiritual guidance and well-being.

In the latter part of her life, Margaret endured seven years of intense suffering from a terribly painful ulcer. However, she used this affliction as an opportunity to demonstrate her deep sense of resignation to the will of God.

Following her passing, Margaret's community of Poor Clares relocated from the castle to the convent of San Silvestro in Capite in Rome. However, they were eventually driven out and found refuge in the convent of Santa Cecilia in Trastevere, also in Rome.

Blessed Margaret Colonna's unwavering devotion to God and her commitment to serving the poor and marginalized have made her a cherished figure in Catholic history. Although she is venerated for her holiness, there is no official date assigned for her feast day, and her beatification status remains unknown.

This courageous woman from Palestrina, who turned her personal suffering into an opportunity for sanctification, reminds us of the importance of selflessness, humility, and love for others. Her legacy continues to inspire individuals seeking a life devoted to God and dedicated to aiding those in need.