Blessed Maria Teresa Fasce

Biography

Blessed Maria Teresa Fasce, born on 27 December 1881 in Torriglia, Genoa, Italy, was a devout Catholic who dedicated her life to teaching catechism to children. Growing up, she developed a deep love for Augustinian spirituality and was fascinated by the life and spiritual journey of Saint Rita of Cascia. The canonization of Saint Rita in 1900 had a profound impact on Maria Teresa, sparking her desire to become an Augustinian religious in the monastery of Cascia, Italy.

At the age of 25, Maria Teresa entered the monastery in June 1906 and made her initial vows on Christmas 1907, taking the name Maria Teresa. However, she discovered that the community was in a state of decline and this disillusioned her. In 1911, Maria Teresa sought a period of reflection and stayed with her family, but eventually, she returned to the convent and took her solemn vows on 22 March 1912. Her dedication and commitment to the monastery led to her appointment as the novice mistress in 1914.

Maria Teresa recognized the spiritual deficiencies within the community and wrote letters expressing her concerns about its condition. As a result, she was appointed vicar in 1917 and later became the abbess in 1920, a position she held until her death in 1947. Through her leadership, the monastery underwent a transformation, reviving its spiritual vitality.

During her time at the monastery, Maria Teresa discovered a hidden gem, the little chapel that housed the remains of Saint Rita of Cascia. When she first arrived, the chapel was relatively unknown, but through her efforts, it has become a place of pilgrimage for thousands. In 1923, Maria Teresa initiated the publication of a pamphlet called "Dalle Api alle Rose" (From Bees to Roses), which introduced people to the life of Saint Rita. This endeavor fulfilled her dream of bringing people closer to God through the intercession of Saint Rita.

In addition to the spiritual revival of the monastery and the promotion of Saint Rita's veneration, Mother Maria's love extended beyond the convent walls. The monastery also took in orphaned girls, and under her guidance, a modern facility called "Saint Rita's Hive" was built adjacent to the basilica. This hive provided a safe and nurturing environment for the girls.

Furthermore, inspired by Mother Maria Teresa's devotion and perseverance, various institutions were established around the chapel, including an Augustinian seminary, a hospital, and a retreat house. These services continue to thrive today, all originating from the loving spirit and dedication of Mother Maria.

Mother Maria Teresa Fasce passed away on 18 January 1947, at the age of 65, due to natural causes. Her burial took place next to Saint Rita of Cascia, symbolically resting alongside the saint she had admired and whose intercession she tirelessly promoted. Recognizing her exemplary virtues, Pope John Paul II declared her venerable on 11 July 1995. Later, on 12 October 1997, during the same pontiff's reign, Mother Maria Teresa Fasce was beatified, acknowledging her holiness and the impact she had on the Augustinian order and the faithful.