Maria Bolognesi was an Italian Catholic mystic who lived from 1924 to 1980. Born in Bosaro, she experienced a life marked by significant physical suffering, including various debilitating illnesses and reported spiritual attacks. She is primarily recognized for her intense mystical experiences, which included visions of Jesus Christ and the reception of the stigmata. Throughout her life, she dedicated herself to serving the sick and caring for orphans, maintaining a deep religious devotion despite facing social marginalization and personal hardships.
Life and suffering
Born Maria Semiolo, she grew up in a difficult household and worked as an agricultural laborer after leaving school early. Her life was characterized by chronic health issues, such as arthritis and colitis, as well as reported demonic encounters. During her spiritual journey, she experienced several visions, including one where she received the stigmata. She also reportedly experienced the sensation of sweating blood during her religious life.
Veneration
The Catholic Church recognized her heroic virtues, leading to her being named Venerable by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012. Following the investigation of a miracle involving the healing of a man, she was beatified by Cardinal Angelo Amato on behalf of Pope Francis in 2013. She is commemorated as a blessed, with her feast day observed on 30 January.