January 8

Saint Angela of Foligno (1248-1309) was born into a wealthy Italian family. In her own words, she lived a “mortally sinful” life for her first 40 years, proud and comfortable in her wealth and privilege. Angela was reportedly so embarrassed of her life, she made “false confessions” during the Sacrament of Reconciliation so that she could publicly receive the Eucharist and avoid the scrutiny of others. Following one such occasion, overcome with shame, she prayed in earnest for forgiveness and was visited by a vision of St. Francis of Assisi who offered help.
Shortly after this initial vision, Saint Angela’s remaining family members (husband, mother, and children) died, and she fully converted to Christ. Angela joined the Third Order of Saint Francis, and grew a large community committed to poverty, chastity, and obedience and serving the poor of the community. Throughout her life, Angela continued to experience mystical visions during her deep and reverent prayer. She came to record her conversion and visions in the Book of Visions and Instructions, and based on this work came to be known as the “Mistress of Theologians.”

For Angela “the whole world was filled with God,” and she was in almost constant communion with Him. Angela herself tells us that at times she was overcome with grief because she could see nothing but the extraordinary goodness of God and, in contrast, the vanity of earthly things and the ingratitude of creatures. The sight of a crucifix produced in Saint Angela torrents of tears.
Angela’s uncorrupted remains repose at the church of Saint Francis in Foligno. Numerous miracles are reported to have occurred at her tomb. Saint Angela’s feast day is January 4.
Today we look to Saint Angela’s life, inspiring us to sincerely and contritely ask the Lord for forgiveness for our worldly “mortally sinful” lives. We pray for all of us, struggling with temptations that distract our hearts and minds from the goodness of the Lord. We pray for those who are afraid to ask for forgiveness.

Having completed the first week of this amazing spiritual journey, I also pray with gratitude and thanksgiving for this opportunity, and for all of you who are reading this blog! Please join me in prayer.



Day 8 of 365
Prayer Intention: Those struggling with temptation; Those afraid to ask for forgiveness
Requested Intentions: Those looking for employment (L)