Blessed Teresa Maria Of The Cross

Biography

Blessed Teresa Maria of the Cross, also known as Bettina (childhood nickname), Teresa Adelaide Cesina Manetti, Teresa Maria de la Cruz, Teresa Maria della Croce, and Teresa Maria Manetti, was born on 2 March 1846 in Campi Bisenzio, Florence, Italy. She was the daughter of Salvatore Manetti and Rosa Bigagli and had one brother named Adamo Raffaello. Unfortunately, her father passed away when Teresa was only three years old.

From a young age, Teresa was known for her piety and devotion. She demonstrated a strong faith, which was evident when she made her First Communion on 8 May 1859. Teresa possessed natural leadership skills and organizational abilities. At the age of 18, she gathered a group of young women who lived together in communal life and worked as teachers for poor children. They drew inspiration from the writings of Saint Teresa of Avila and had a special devotion to her.

On 16 July 1876, Teresa organized and joined a group of Carmelite tertiaries, taking the religious name Teresa Maria of the Cross. She deepened her commitment and consecration by joining the Discalced Carmelites on 12 July 1888. In the following years, she established schools in various Italian cities, each with its own community of Carmelite teachers.

Teresa's Institute of teaching nuns received official approval from Pope Saint Pius X on 27 February 1904. They became known as the Suor Carmelite di Santa Teresa di Firenze (Carmelite Sisters of Saint Teresa of Florence). The primary mission of this religious congregation was to teach and care for children, particularly orphans.

Following in the footsteps of her inspiration, Saint Teresa of Avila, Teresa of the Cross faced numerous challenges in her work with the poor. She encountered slander and false accusations about her personal life, as well as a prolonged period of spiritual dryness. Despite these hardships, all who came into contact with her noted the aura of joy and peace that she radiated through her tireless efforts.

Blessed Teresa Maria of the Cross passed away on 3 April 1910, in Campi Bisenzio, Florence, Italy, due to natural causes. Her relics were subsequently translated to the monastery church at Campi Bisenzio on 22 April 1912. Recognizing her virtuous life, Pope Paul VI declared her venerable on 23 May 1975. Later, on 19 October 1986, Pope John Paul II beatified her, acknowledging her holiness and her significant contribution to the Church.

Blessed Teresa Maria of the Cross remains an exemplary figure, particularly in her devout spirituality and remarkable dedication to serving underprivileged children. Her legacy continues to inspire and guide those who seek to emulate her selfless love and commitment to the poor.