Blessed Maria Karłowska

Biography

Blessed Maria Karłowska, also known as Maria of Jesus Crucified, was born on September 4, 1865, in Karlowo, Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Poland. She was born into a large and pious family, whose faith greatly influenced her own spiritual journey. Sadly, Maria lost her parents when she was in her teens, which led her to embark on a new path as an apprentice seamstress in Berlin, Germany.

Throughout her life, Maria had a deep devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This devotion fueled her desire to serve the sick and marginalized, and she dedicated herself to ministering to the needy in the city of Berlin. It was during this time that Maria's vocation as a religious sister began to take shape.

Feeling called by God to a life of service and dedication, Maria eventually became a nun. On September 8, 1896, she founded the Sisters of the Divine Shepherd of Divine Providence, also known as the Congregation of the Good Shepherd of the Divine Providence, or the Good Shepherd Sisters. The primary mission of this congregation was the moral and social rehabilitation of prostitutes and offering care to those suffering from venereal diseases.

Blessed Maria Karłowska's work focused mainly in Plock, Pomerania, which is now a part of Poland. However, her compassionate ministry extended to other cities such as Lublin, Torun, Bydgoszcz, Topolno, Pniewite, Jablonowo, and Zoledowo. Her dedication to the marginalized and her tireless efforts in seeking their redemption earned her a reputation as a beacon of hope and love in the communities she served.

Blessed Maria Karłowska's life was marked by her unwavering commitment to the Divine Providence and her selfless service to the most vulnerable members of society. Her deep spirituality and ability to bring comfort and healing to those in need left a lasting impact on those who crossed her path.

On March 24, 1935, Blessed Maria Karłowska passed away in Pniewite, Kujawsko-Pomorskie, Poland, at the age of 69, due to natural causes. Her virtuous life and outstanding service to others were recognized and admired by many, including Pope John Paul II. On July 11, 1995, Maria Karłowska was declared venerable by Pope John Paul II, acknowledging her heroic virtues.

Finally, on June 6, 1997, Pope John Paul II beatified Maria Karłowska in Zakopane, Poland, publicly recognizing her as Blessed Maria Karłowska. Her feast day is celebrated on April 6 each year, which was moved from March 24 to avoid conflicting with the season of Lent. Blessed Maria Karłowska stands as an inspiration for all who strive to follow Christ's example of love, mercy, and service to the marginalized and suffering.