Today I am reminded of the simple things in life, talking with a friend, receiving an email, reaching out to someone who you love. For me, today's saint models that for me. Blessed Maria Fortunata Viti was born on February 10, 1827 in Veroli, Italy as Anna Felicia Viti. After her mother died when she was 14 years old, she had to take care of her eight younger siblings. She worked as a servant to support them. Her father was a gamble and a heavy drinker. She joined the Benedictines in Veroli, Italy on March 21, 1851 at age 24 and she took the name of Sister Maria Fortunata. She spent 70 years in the Order doing the simple things--spinning, sewing, washing, mending, and of course praying the whole time. Sister Maria never learned to read or write and she never held a position in her house, but she had a great devotion to the Blessed Sacrament. Many people, nuns and lay people included, learned from her quiet, humble, happy, and prayerful example! Blessed Maria Fortunata died on November 20, 1922 in Veroli of natural causes. She was put into a mass grave and there are reported miracles at the grave site. She was beatified on October 8, 1967 by Pope Paul VI and awaits canonization.
She is the patron saint of mental illness, loss of parents, against poverty and temptations.
I take to heart her example of prayer, especially with the Blessed Sacrament. When I am able to spend time in the chapel or church with Jesus, the time is always well spend reflecting and talking to him about my life and which direction it is going and God's plan for me.
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