Maria Ignazia Isacchi beatified in Mantua

Mother Maria Ignazia Isacchi, founder of the Congregation of the Ursuline Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was beatified during a solemn ceremony at the Basilica of Sant’Andrea in Mantua. The rite was presided over by Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, Prefect of the Dicastery for the Causes of Saints.

Born in 1857 in Stezzano, Isacchi founded the congregation in Gazzuolo in 1893. Her life was characterized by a commitment to education and assistance, specifically focusing on young women, the sick, and the poor. Cardinal Semeraro described her spiritual journey as a “path of obstacles” marked by trials and misunderstandings, yet noted her unwavering trust in the Gospel.

The ceremony included the reading of the apostolic letter and the presentation of her relics. The event was attended by various religious figures, including the Bishop of Mantua, Marco Busca, and the Archbishop of Milan, Mario Delpini. Members of the congregation from Burundi followed the proceedings via live stream.