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Feast Day: April 23
Birth: March 17, 1914
Death: April 23, 1939
Blessed Maria Gabriella Sagheddu, also known as Maria Gabriella or Mary-Gabrielle Sagheddu, was born on 17 March 1914 in Dorgali, a town in Sardinia, Italy. She was born into a humble family of shepherds. As a child, Maria Gabriella was known for her strong-willed nature, often described as obstinate, critical, protesting, and rebellious. Despite these traits, she was also loyal and obedient, often saying no to requests but acting on them immediately.
At the age of 18, a significant transformation occurred in Maria Gabriella's life. She became gentler, her temper subsided, and she started getting involved in prayer and acts of charity. She joined "Azione Cattolica," a Catholic youth movement, which deepened her faith and commitment to serving others.
Three years later, at the age of 21, Maria Gabriella decided to devote herself entirely to the religious life and entered the Trappestine monastery of Grottaferrata. Her attitude towards God's will underwent a profound change, and she embraced a sense of surrender, saying, "Now do what You will."
During her time in the monastery, the community's leader explained the urgent need for prayer and offerings in support of the great cause of Christian Unity. Deeply moved by this call, Maria Gabriella felt compelled to offer her young life as a sacrifice for this cause. Although she had never been sick before, shortly after making this decision, she was afflicted by tuberculosis.
From the moment of her diagnosis, Maria Gabriella dedicated her life to prayer for Christian Unity. Over a period of just 15 months, she valiantly endured the sufferings and limitations caused by her illness, united with the sufferings of Christ. On 23 April 1939, during Vespers, Maria Gabriella passed away peacefully, truly giving her life for the promotion of Christian Unity.
After her death, a remarkable testimony to her holiness was discovered. In 1957, her body was found to be incorrupt, a sign often attributed to the sanctity of certain saints. Her relics are currently housed in a chapel at the Monastero Trappiste Vitorchiano near Viterbo, Italy.
Blessed Maria Gabriella Sagheddu's heroic virtues were officially recognized on 4 May 1981 by Pope John Paul II. She was beatified on 25 January 1983 by the same Pope, who acknowledged her profound spiritual journey and ultimate sacrifice for Christian Unity.
Although no specific representation has been provided for Blessed Maria Gabriella, her story serves as an inspiration of selflessness, surrender to God's will, and a fervent desire for unity among all Christians. She is remembered and venerated on her feast day, 23 April.