Blessed Teresa Grillo Michel

Biography

Blessed Teresa Grillo Michel, also known as Maddalena Parvopassau and Maria Antonia, was born on 25 September 1855 in Spinetta Marengo, Alessandria, Italy. She was the youngest of five children born to Giuseppe and Maria Antonietta Parvopassau. Her father, Giuseppe, served as the head physician at the Civil Hospital of Alessandria but unfortunately passed away when she was still very young.

Maddalena received her education at various schools, starting in Turin, Italy, and later attending a boarding school in Lodi, Italy, which was run by the Ladies of Lorreto. At the age of 18, she returned to Alessandria, her hometown, where she married Captain Giovanni Michel on 2 August 1877. Over the next few years, the couple lived in several Italian cities, including Caserta, Acireale, Catania, Portici, and Naples.

Tragedy struck Teresa's life when Captain Giovanni died of sunstroke during a parade in Naples in 1891. This event caused her to sink into a deep depression. However, with the spiritual guidance and support of her cousin, Monsignor Prelli, she eventually made a remarkable recovery. It was during this time that Teresa felt called to a life of service and dedicated herself to helping the poor.

Initially, Teresa opened her own home to shelter and assist those in need. However, the demand quickly outgrew the capacity of her house. In 1893, despite facing opposition from her family, she made the decision to sell her home and purchase a large old building. Through her efforts, the building was transformed into the Little Shelter of Divine Providence.

The transformative impact of Teresa's work resonated with other local women, leading to the formation of a small community. On 8 January 1899, Teresa and eight of her co-workers officially founded the Congregation of the Little Sisters of Divine Providence. With a strong commitment to serving the poor, Teresa spent the remaining 45 years of her life tirelessly spreading the mission of the Congregation.

Under her guidance, the Congregation thrived and expanded its reach. Today, the Little Sisters of Divine Providence have houses not only throughout Italy but also in Brazil and Argentina. They provide essential services such as running nurseries, orphanages, schools, hospitals, and homes for the elderly.

Blessed Teresa Grillo Michel dedicated her life to serving the least fortunate and vulnerable members of society. Her compassionate and selfless work earned her recognition from the Catholic Church. Pope John Paul II venerated her on 6 July 1985 with the decree of heroic virtues. Later, on 24 May 1998, Pope John Paul II beatified her, acknowledging her remarkable commitment to God's work and the impact she made in the lives of countless individuals.

On 25 January 1944, Blessed Teresa Grillo Michel passed away in her hometown of Alessandria, Italy, due to natural causes. Her legacy of compassion and charity continues to inspire and guide people worldwide, and she remains a beacon of hope for those in need.