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March 23

Rebecca (Rafqa Ar-Rayès) (1832–1914)

Religious

A Lebanese nun of the Maronite Church, Rafqa first worked as a teacher and catechist, saved a child during the violence of 1860 and then entered monastic life.

Biography

Desiring to participate more intimately in the passion of Christ, since 1885 he suffered intense pain, loss of sight and progressive paralysis. He did not seek suffering for himself nor did he stop receiving care; She lived it with patience, prayer and joy, without becoming a bitter burden for her sisters. His life united educational service, Eastern tradition, and persevering trust in the midst of illness.

Practical advice

If you are in pain today, accept the help available and offer to God the part that you cannot change without taking out your frustration on others.

Example of

PrayerFaithConsecrated life

Sources and related links

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