Blessed Matthia Dei Nazzarei

Biography

Blessed Matthia Dei Nazzarei, also known as Mattia or Matthias Nazarei, was born on 1 March 1253 in Matelica, Macerata, Italy. She was the only child of Count Gualtiero Nazarei and his wife Sibilla, both belonging to the nobility. From her early youth, Matthia possessed a deep longing for a simpler life and rejected the extravagant pomp and luxury associated with her family's courtly lifestyle.

Matthia's desire for a life of devotion and dedication to God eventually led her to make a significant decision. When her father intended to arrange a marriage for her, she decided to flee from this fate and seek refuge within the walls of the convent of Santa Maddalena in Metalica, Italy. There, Matthia began her journey as a Benedictine nun, fully committing herself to a life of prayer, contemplation, and service.

Throughout her years in religious life, Matthia's fervor and dedication were evident to all who knew her. She demonstrated wisdom, humility, and a compassionate heart, which allowed her to serve the Lord graciously. Her exemplary qualities led her fellow sisters to elect her as the abbess of the house, a position she held for an impressive 40 years.

It is worth noting that the convent later adopted the rule of the Poor Clares, which emphasizes simplicity, poverty, and prayer. Therefore, Matthia is often listed as a Poor Clare, reflecting her alignment with the principles and spirituality associated with this order.

In recognition of her outstanding holiness and contributions to the religious community, the house was renamed Beata Matthias in her honor in 1758. Her memory is revered and celebrated on her feast days: 28 December, 30 December on some calendars, and 7 November on others.

Blessed Matthia Dei Nazzarei passed away on 28 December 1319 in Matelica, Macerata, Italy, at the age of 66, due to natural causes. After her death, her body was initially laid to rest near the high altar of her beloved convent chapel. In 1536, during the process of her beatification, her body was exhumed and astonishingly found to be incorrupt and sweating, a miraculous sign of her sanctity. This evidence of divine favor amplified devotion towards her.

In 1756, the chapel was in need of repair, leading to the second exhumation and relocation of her body. Astonishingly, her body was found to be incorrupt once again, revealing the continued preservation of her mortal remains and offering an enduring testament to her sanctity.

Pope Clement XIII beatified Blessed Matthia Dei Nazzarei on 27 July 1765, confirming the cult of veneration surrounding her. As a blessed, she holds a place of honor within the Catholic Church for her virtuous life, her selflessness, and her deep spiritual commitment.

Blessed Matthia Dei Nazzarei's life serves as a testament to the transformative power of faith and the profound impact that the pursuit of a sincere and humble relationship with God can have on oneself and others. Her story continues to inspire believers to seek a life marked by simplicity, devotion, and compassionate service to others.