December 2
María Ángela Astorch, abbess (1592–1665)
Founding Franciscan Abbess
Practical advice
Perform a humble task today that you would normally leave to someone else, without drawing attention to yourself.
Biography
Capuchin Poor Clare Abbess and spiritual teacher, Maria Angela Astorch united a remarkable biblical culture with humility, prudent government, and daily service. He entered the monastery of Barcelona at a very young age and, after years of training, participated in the founding of Zaragoza. As an abbess she also worked in the kitchen, laundry, garden and infirmary, while sharing alms with the poor and welcoming refugees. In 1645 he founded a monastery in Murcia and introduced daily communion. She sustained her sisters during the plague and floods with prayer and serenity.
Example of
PrayerSelf-givingFounding spirit