Saint Margaret of Cortona
Stored in Cargo: Saint Margaret of Cortona
| Saint Margaret of Cortona | |
| Feast Day | February 22 |
|---|---|
| Liturgical Class | |
| Patronage | Homeless people, falsely accused people, midwives, reformed prostitutes, single mothers |
| Birthplace | Loviano, Tuscany, Italy |
| Death Place | Cortona, Tuscany, Italy |
| Cause of Death | Natural causes |
| Primary Shrine | Basilica of Santa Margherita, Cortona, Italy |
St. Margaret of Cortona, born in 1247, was a penitent who transformed her life from one of sin to one of sanctity[1]. After a tumultuous early life, she joined the Third Order of St. Francis, dedicating herself to penance, prayer, and service to the poor[2].
Known for her miracles and her establishment of a hospital for the sick, she is revered as a model of conversion and compassion[3].
Biography
Birth
Margaret was born in 1247 in Loviano, near Castiglione del Lago, Tuscany, Italy[1].
Early Life
Her mother died when she was young, and she lived with a harsh stepmother, leading her to run away with a local nobleman, living with him for nine years and bearing a son[2].
Occupation
After her conversion, she became known for her work as a nurse and caretaker of the sick[1].
Vocation
Margaret joined the Third Order of St. Francis after her lover's murder, dedicating her life to penance and charity. She founded a hospital and the Congregation of the Poor Ones (Poverelle)[3].
Death
She died on February 22, 1297, in Cortona, from natural causes[1].
Significant events
- Her conversion after discovering her lover's murdered body, which led her to a life of penance[2].
- Founded a hospital in Cortona for the poor and sick[1].
- Experienced mystical visions and was known for her spiritual gifts[3].
Significant locations
Legend
Birth location: Loviano, Tuscany, Italy
Death location: Cortona, Tuscany, Italy
Notable location:
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Death
St. Margaret died peacefully in Cortona, having lived a life of significant transformation and service.
Canonization
Servant of God
The process to recognize Margaret as a Servant of God likely began in the 17th or 18th century, but specific details are not recorded[1].
Venerable
Declared Venerable for her life of heroic virtue, though the exact date isn't known[1].
Beatification
Not formally beatified; she was canonized directly, as was common for early saints[1].
Canonization
Canonized on May 16, 1728, by Pope Benedict XIII[1], recognizing her sanctity, miracles, and contributions to the Church.
Miracles
Miracle for beatification
Not applicable; she was canonized without formal beatification.
Miracle for canonization
Miracles associated with her tomb and the healing of the sick through her intercession were noted for her canonization[1].
Other notable miracles
- Numerous healings and other miracles were attributed to her intercession[3].
Patronage
St. Margaret of Cortona is the patron saint of homeless people, falsely accused people, midwives, reformed prostitutes, and single mothers[1].
Feast day
Her feast day is celebrated on February 22[1].
Veneration
St. Margaret is venerated in Cortona, where her relics are kept in the Basilica of Santa Margherita. She is remembered for her penitential life and her acts of charity[3].
Books
Written about the saint
- Her life has been documented in several hagiographies, but no specific modern books were listed[3].
Written by the saint
- St. Margaret of Cortona did not leave any known written works[3].
External links
- Catholic Online article on St. Margaret of Cortona[1]
- New Advent Catholic Encyclopedia on St. Margaret of Cortona[2]
- Wikipedia entry on Margaret of Cortona[3]