Saint of the Day: Blessed Archangela Girlani

Carmelite Nun (1460-1495)

Her life

+ Eleanor Girlani was born in Trino, Italy.

+ Although she felt called to become a Benedictine nun, she was moved by what she considered to divine signs to become a Carmelite nun in Parma, Italy.

+ Known in religious life as Sister Archangela, she later served as prioress of the Carmelite nuns in Parma and Mantua.

+ Blessed Archangela is remembered as mystic who had a special devotion to the Most Holy Trinity and who experienced numerous ecstasies and even levitated.

+ Honored as a holy women immediately after her death on January 25, 1495, she was recognized as “Blessed” by Blessed Pope Pius IX in 1864.

For prayer and reflection

“I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship. Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.”—Romans 12:1-2

Prayer

O God, you gave the virgin Blessed Archangela Girlani particular dedication to the mystery of the eternal Trinity. Through her prayers may we taste the delights of your glory already here on earth, and look upon you for ever in heaven. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

(from The Carmelite Sacramentary)

Saint profiles prepared by Brother Silas Henderson, S.D.S.