St Maria Chaira took a vow of chastity and became a nun and missionary who went to spread the faith in China. She was beheaded for sharing the gospel with others.
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ENLIGHTENMENT PRAYER
In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.
My God, I firmly believe that Thou art everywhere present and seest all things...cleanse my heart from all vain, wicked, and distracting thoughts. Enlighten my understanding, and inflame my will, that I may pray with reverence, attention, and devotion.
BIOGRAPHY
Maria was born in Italy and was known as a pretty, high-spirited, intelligent, joyful, energetic and impulsive girl. Her parents encouraged her to a more active social life in the hope that she would marry, but she declined. She worked at home after taking a private vow of chastity.
At 18 she asked permission to enter religious life, but her parents vehemently opposed it. However, with her brother’s help, she joined the Franciscan Missionaries of Mary on 24 January 1892, taking the name Chiara (Clare).
She became a missionary to China. Her short lived career ended during a crackdown on foreign missionaries in 1900. She was beheaded by members of the boxer rebellion.
The Boxer Rebellion was an uprising against foreigners that occurred in China about 1900, begun by peasants but eventually supported by the government. A Chinese secret society known as the Boxers embarked on a violent campaign to kill or drive all foreigners from China, especially Christians and Christian missionaries.
St Maria Chaira took a vow of chastity, and became a nun and missionary who went to spread the faith in China. She was beheaded for sharing the gospel with others.
Reflect on this saint’s life for a while
Sit quietly and consider this:
How can you live holier based on this saint’s life?
THANKSGIVING PRAYER
Almighty and eternal God, I adore Thee, and I thank Thee for all the benefits which Thou, in Thy infinite goodness and mercy, hast conferred upon me.
RESOLUTION
Based on this reflection, I resolve to avoid all sin.
However, I should especially resolve to avoid one particular deadly sin:
(Lust, Envy, Gluttony, Greed, Wrath, Pride, Sloth)
RESOLUTION & MIDDAY PRAYER
My God, I offer Thee these resolutions; unless Thou deignest to bless them, I can not be faithful to them. And Lord Jesus Christ, at midday You mounted the cross for our salvation. Give us Your light, which will bring us to eternal life. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Thank You and God Bless +