October 11
María Soledad Torres Acosta (1826–1887)
Secular
Manolita, from Madrid by birth, was insignificant due to her physical appearance, her social origin and her poor health, and no one doubted that she would give little to talk about.
Biography
In 1851, Manolita, under the name María Soledad, took on the habit of Mary's servants, whose mission was to care for the helpless sick and of whom she soon became superior. She faced almost insurmountable difficulties: desertions of sisters, obstacles from the government and, to make matters worse, she herself was deposed and relegated to a small hospital in Getafe. Manolita solves problems with two methods that she tenaciously applies: prayer and work. Nothing stops her, and the Institute spreads throughout Spain and America. Soledad is remembered as a woman of prayer, deeply dedicated to works of charity.
Practical advice
Today, in the presence of God, offer a small sacrifice for a hidden intention and also take care of the small details.