The Miracle
Sister Agostina was born in 1916 and entered the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows in January 1935. In November 1937, she became ill. A doctor remarked, "What a pity that you have to die so young." Her condition kept worsening, and in 1953, her health took a turn for the worse. In January 1959, her condition worsened, and after consultation with the doctor who gave no hope, Sister Agostina received the last rites while on oxygen.
On March 7, 1959, Doctor Guido Rossi examined Sister Agostina for the last time, noting that the end was near. Despite her senses fading, she held on to hope. She asked her assisting sister, "Is it time for the miracle?" The sister responded uncertainly, thinking Sister Agostina was not in her right mind. "Yes, yes, it is always the time...." Sister Agostina, raising her voice, boldly prayed, "For the glory of God and the good of the Congregation, restore me to health through the intercession of Mother Foundress." Instantly, she sat up, moved her arms, and got out of bed, shocking the nurse. She even requested something to eat.
When the sisters called the doctor, he immediately thought they were calling him to sign the death certificate. The doctor was surprised to find Sr. Agostina wide awake and full of life. The following day, she got up and went to the chapel for prayer and Mass with the rest of the community. After years of well-documented illness, she acted as if nothing had ever happened.
The Beatification of Elisabetta
"The Alleluia dwells beyond Calvary." These words succinctly encapsulate the spiritual essence of Blessed Elisabetta Renzi, a profound reflection of her life and mission. Her journey was one of deep trials, yet through it all, her heart remained anchored in the joy of God's love, a joy that transcends even the suffering of the cross. This theme was chosen to mark her beatification, a moment of grace when the Church formally acknowledged the holiness and sanctity of her life.
On June 18, 1989, the beatification took place in St. Peter's Basilica, alongside the beatification of His Excellency Antonio Lucci, a fellow servant of God. That day remains etched in history, not only for its liturgical grandeur but also for the powerful words of Pope John Paul II, who spoke of the lasting witness of Blessed Elisabetta's love for God and others. The crowd, holding scarves emblazoned with her slogan "Be happy, God loves you!" echoed the spirit of her life, one of unshakable joy in God's presence, even in the midst of hardship.
Mother Elisabetta's beatification was a testament to the resilience of her faith and the enduring power of God's love.
1839
In 1839, Mother Elisabetta's profound faith and humility were evident when the canonical establishment of her congregation and her first profession were delayed. She remained trusting in Providence, believing that her actions were solely for the glory of God. "I believe that what I have done, I have done for the glory of God. Only for the glory of God did I begin the work of the congregation."
On August 26, 1839, the bishop of Rimini, Francesco Gentilini, canonically established the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows in Coriano. Three days later, Elisabetta and ten companions received the religious habit of the Sisters of Our Lady of Sorrows and made their first profession, expressing their joy in religious life: "How good is the Lord!" She said, "I find no words to express my happiness in religious life. Every day, I appreciate it more; here, there is no one but Him. He is everything and sufficient for everything and everyone."
I was convinced that I was not going to die. The body was finished. I could hardly see or hear anymore; my senses were gone, and yet, I felt that the end was far, very far away.
Sr. Agostina Galli
PLACES OF MOTHER ELISABETTA
Historical images of the places associated with our Foundress, Blessed Elisabetta Renzi.
We know with great confidence that Blessed Elisabetta intercedes for us from up there as we live out our yes each day.
PRAYER TO BL. ELISABETTA RENZI
Lord Jesus Christ,
you chose Blessed Elisabetta Renzi
to show the world the joy of knowing,
loving, and following you.
Fill my heart with a love as great as hers for all people,
and with an ardent desire to proclaim everywhere
the good news of salvation,
so that all may come to know, love, and follow you,
the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
Through her intercession, if it is your will,
grant me the special grace that I humbly ask of you,
who live and reign forever. Amen.