SFO Blessed: Mother Mary Angela of the Felicians

Blessed Mother Mary Angela Truszkowska was born Sophia Camille Truszkowska in Kalisz, Poland, on May 16,1825. She had health problems as a child, and was largely educated at home. Her father, a judge, had a large library, which aided in her education. He also helped her to develop a deep concern for the poor and social justice. Her family was very devout, and early on she was drawn to prayer.

As a young woman, she devoted herself to working for the poor and needy. Her spirituality was strengthened by a deep passion for Jesus in the Eucharist. She also had devotions to Mary and St. Francis of Assisi, eventually becoming a Third Order (Secular Order) Franciscan.

On November 21, 1855, Sophia and her cousin (a fellow Third Order Franciscan) dedicated themselves to do the will of her Christ while kneeling before an icon of Our Lady of Czestochowa. The day is considered the foundation day of the Congregation of the Sisters of St.Felix of Cantalice (the Felician Sisters).

She served as the superior general of the congregation for three terms, stepping down at age forty-four years because of increasing deafness. She remained active for the next 30 years until she died October 10, 1899.

Pope John Paul II beatified her April 18, 1993.