St. Angela Merici

St. Angela Merici was born in 1474 in Desenzano del Garda, a small town in northern Italy, during a time of significant religious and social upheaval. Orphaned at a young age, she and her sister were raised by their uncle. After her sister’s sudden death, Angela deepened her spiritual life, dedicating herself to prayer and service. She joined the Third Order of St. Francis, embracing a life of simplicity and devotion. In her early twenties, she moved to Brescia, where her reputation for piety and wisdom grew. During this period, Italy was marked by the Renaissance and the early stirrings of the Protestant Reformation, which influenced her focus on education and spiritual renewal. Angela’s vision was to address the lack of education for young girls, particularly in matters of faith. In 1535, she founded the Company of St. Ursula, later known as the Ursulines, a groundbreaking lay organization dedicated to teaching and guiding young women. Unlike traditional religious orders, the Ursulines lived in their communities, blending active service with spiritual commitment. Angela’s innovative approach laid the foundation for modern Catholic education. She died in 1540, though the exact location of her death remains unknown. Her legacy endured, and the Ursulines became the first teaching order of women in the Church. Angela Merici was canonized in 1807, recognized for her profound impact on education and her pioneering role in empowering women through faith and learning.