St. Angela Merici, an Italian religious educator and founder of the Ursuline Sisters, was bold in responding to people’s needs.

At 20-years-of-age, Angela became concerned that there were many young girls who had no education. Angela wanted to respond to the needs of families by providing solid Christian education for future wives and mothers. She opened her home and began to teach.

In 1524, during a journey to the Holy Land, Angela became blind. She enthusiastically continued as if she could see. Travelling home, her sight was restored while she was praying in the same place where she had become blind. Angela believed that the message was to never shut her eyes to the needs she saw, never to shut her heart to God's call.

In 1535 Angela organized 12 women dedicated to catechetical work. Four years later the group had increased to 28. She formed them into the Company of St. Ursula. This was different from the women’s religious orders which existed then: single women consecrated to Christ, living in the world rather than a monastery, believing it was important to teach girls in their own homes with their families.

This first teaching order of women in the church was recognized only after her death when her Rule was approved by Pope Paul III in 1544, making the Ursulines an official religious community of women with a teaching ministry.

St. Angela’s life calls us to be bold, never blind to people’s needs! What are the needs of today? As catechists, we have the unique opportunity to touch lives – the lives of our learners and their families. All we do influences not just today, but their lives in the years to come..

Reflections to Hold, Pray, and Live

• What bold steps do you take to nurture the faith of every family member?
• Our ministry is not just to our learners but also to their families. How do you know the life circumstances and needs of your learners and their families? How often do you call them (just to tell them you’re thinking of them) or invite them to your sessions (and talk with them afterwards)?

Author:

Sister Janet Schaeffler, OP
Member, NCCL Board of Directors

Her book, SAINTS & MENTORS for Catechists: 41 Models of Faith to Support and Guide You, can be purchased from Twenty-Third Publications
[GET YOUR COPY HERE]

Learn more about Janet and her publications at https://www.janetschaeffler.com/