Today is the optional memorial of Saint Mary Magdalene De’ Pazzi, discalced Carmelite nun and mystic. She is patroness against sexual temptation and sickness.
Catherine de’ Pazzi was born into a noble family in Florence in 1566. She made her First Holy Communion at the then early age of ten and also made a vow of chastity at the same time.
Catherine deepened her prayer life with the help of the Jesuit Fathers. At age sixteen, she joined the Carmelites and received the habit under the name of Sister Mary Magdalene.
Saint Mary Magdalene De’ Pazzi served as both novice mistress and sub-prioress at the monastery. In her work, she led her sisters in devotion to the purity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
In March of 1584, she fell gravely ill and asked to be able to make her profession prior to the scheduled date. On the Feast of the Trinity, she was carried into the choir on her bed, where she made her perpetual vows of chastity, poverty and obedience.
From that time on, she began to receive many mystical graces. The Carmelites have five manuscripts which document the extraordinary experiences of Saint Mary Magdalene De’ Pazzi. She wrote a number of letters while in ecstasy. She read the thoughts of others and predicted future events. During her lifetime, she appeared to several persons in distant places and cured a number of sick people.
Saint Mary Magdalene De’ Pazzi experienced agonizing physical and spiritual pain which lasted until her death on May 25, 1607. At the moment she passed away, an unusual joy filled the monastery.
Within just twenty years of her death, Pope Urban VIII proclaimed her Blessed. Pope Clement IX canonized her in 1669.
Her body is incorrupt and is the destination of constant pilgrimages. Her cell at the monastery where she died has become a chapel.
Saint Quote
“Come Holy Spirit, Spirit of Truth. You are the reward of the saints, the comforter of souls, light in the darkness, riches to the poor, treasure to lovers, food for the hungry, comfort to those who are wandering, to sum up, you are the one in whom all treasures are contained.” – Saint Mary Magdalen De’ Pazzi
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