1786
Blessed Elisabetta Renzi was born on November 19, 1786, in Saludecio, Italy, to wealthy and devout parents, Giambattista Renzi and Vittoria Boni. As a young child, she was educated and catechized by the Poor Clares in a boarding school near her house. As a teenager, she asked her parents for permission to enter the Augustinian monastery at Pietrarubbia. There, she lived a remote and impoverished life with the cloistered nuns and became a novice. Before completing the novitiate, a decree by Napoleon led to the closure of all religious houses. She returned home and spent several years with her family, uncertain about her future, but still desiring a religious vocation, which was not possible at that time.
During this time, Elisabetta desired to join the Daughters of Charity, the Congregation of Maddalena of Canossa, yet God had something else in mind for her. Elisabetta became director of the small laboratory school in Coriano, and she was also encouraged to start her own religious Congregation.
Father, permit me to remain here, awaiting the reward of good works, of good thoughts, of good desires - for God, who alone is good, takes into consideration even our good desires. God offers me so much! I have a great desire to do good and to pray constantly in the house of God for the glory of God.
Blessed Elisabetta Renzi
1828
Mother Elisabetta became the directress of the Conservatory during a period marked by uncertainty. The institution's future hung in the balance, facing challenges threatening its stability and reputation, mainly due to negative influences from groups like the Masons. Recognizing the pressing need for revitalization, Elisabetta purchased the Conservatory, demonstrating her commitment to the Conservatory's legacy and potential. Central to her approach was the adoption of a deep spiritual life, which she believed would serve as a solid foundation for the community.
To place all my confidence in God with a lively hope that I will receive from Him the necessary help to carry out these good resolutions, and so preserve in the vocation that the Lord has given to me, in spite of any obstacles that oppose me.
Blessed Elisabetta Renzi
PLACES OF MOTHER ELISABETTA
Historical images of the places associated with our Foundress.
