Historia de Santa Paulina del Corazón Agonizante de Jesús - La Luz de la Caridad

The Story of Saint Paulina of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus - The Light of Charity Saint Paulina, born Amabile Lucia Visintainer, was a Brazilian nun of Italian origin, known for her dedication to the poor, the sick, and the needy. Early Life Amabile was born on December 16, 1865, in Vigolo Vattaro, a small town in the Trentino-Alto Adige region of northern Italy. In 1875, when she was ten years old, her family emigrated to Brazil, settling in the colony of Nova Trento, in Santa Catarina. After receiving her First Communion, around the age of twelve, she began participating in parish ministry, catechizing children and visiting the sick. Religious Vocation From a very young age, Amabile demonstrated a deep faith and a strong vocation for religious life. With her father's permission, Amabile built a small cabin on land donated by a baron, near the chapel. There she prayed, cared for the sick, and instructed children. In 1890, together with her friend Virginia Nicolodi, she began caring for a woman with cancer, moving into her home to provide assistance. This act of charity marked the beginning of her work caring for the sick and poor. Foundation of the Congregation On July 12, 1890, Amabile and Virginia founded the Congregation of the Little Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, dedicated to serving those in need. Four months later, Amabile, Virginia, and Teresa Anna Maule, another young woman who joined them, took religious vows. They adopted a communal lifestyle and began attracting other young women who wanted to join their mission. Recognition and Growth The congregation grew rapidly, expanding its activities beyond Nova Trento. In 1903, Amabile, now known as Sister Paulina of the Dying Heart of Jesus, was elected superior general of the congregation. Under her leadership, the congregation established schools, hospitals, and orphanages, expanding its reach and impact. That same year, in recognition of her work, Mother Paulina was invited to move to São Paulo. Settled next to a chapel in the Ipiranga neighborhood, she began construction of the "Holy Family" to house former slaves and their children after the abolition of slavery in 1888. By 1909, the Congregation had grown in the states of Santa Catarina and São Paulo. The Sisters embraced the evangelizing mission through education, catechesis, and care for the elderly, the sick, and orphaned children. That same year, Saint Paulina was removed from her position as Superior General by ecclesiastical authority and sent to Bragança Paulista to care for the sick and asylum seekers, where she witnessed heroic humility and love for the Kingdom of God. Understanding that the work was God's and not her own, she humbly submitted and remained in that mission for nine years. In 1918, Mother Paulina was called back to the General House in São Paulo, in recognition of her virtues, to serve as an example to the young vocations of her congregation. During this period, she distinguished herself by her constant prayer and continuous charitable assistance to her sick sisters. Death and Canonization In 1938, afflicted by diabetes, she began a period of great suffering, starting with the amputation of her right arm, which led to total blindness. Mother Paulina died peacefully on July 9, 1942, at the General House of her congregation in São Paulo. Her life of devotion and service was recognized by the Catholic Church, and she was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1991. In 2002, she was canonized by the same Pope, becoming the first Brazilian saint. Legacy Saint Paulina is remembered for her compassion, humility, and tireless dedication to those in need. Her congregation, the Little Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, continues her work in several countries, following her example of service and love for others. Saint Paulina of the Dying Heart of Jesus is a model of holiness and charity, inspiring many to follow her example of faith and selfless service. Prayer to Saint Pauline O Saint Pauline, who placed all your trust in the Father and in Jesus and who, inspired by Mary, decided to help those who suffer, we entrust to you the Church you love so much, our lives, our families, the Consecrated Life, and all the people of God. (Ask for the desired grace) Saint Pauline, intercede for us, together with Jesus, so that we may have the courage to always strive for a more humane, just, and fraternal world. Amen! Saint Pauline, pray for us!