Episode 1892: St Margaret of Cortona

St. Margaret of Cortona: A Life of Repentance and Service
Here's a biography of St. Margaret of Cortona:

Early Life:

Born in 1247 in Laviano, Italy, to a farming family.
Lost her mother at age seven and faced difficulties with her stepmother.
Elope with a young man and lived with him for nine years, bearing a son out of wedlock.
Struggled with guilt and sought inner peace.
Conversion and Penance:

Faced a vision of her deceased lover suffering in hell, sparking a spiritual awakening.
Left her previous life and sought refuge with the Franciscan Friars Minor in Cortona.
Embraced a life of penance, prayer, and solitude.
Overcame public criticism and accusations with steadfast faith.
Works of Service:

Founded a hospital for the sick-poor in Cortona.
Established a congregation of Tertiary Sisters ("Le Poverelle") to care for the sick and marginalized.
Formed a confraternity dedicated to Our Lady of Mercy to support the hospital and aid the needy.
Preached against vice and inspired many to return to the sacraments.
Devout to the Eucharist and the Passion of Christ, drawing strength for her works from her faith.
Legacy:

Died in 1297, known for her humility, compassion, and dedication to serving others.
Canonized in 1728, her feast day celebrated on February 22nd.
Venerated as a patron saint of many, including:
The falsely accused
Homeless and marginalized people
Mentally ill and reformed prostitutes
Single mothers and stepchildren
Midwives and penitents
Additional Notes:

St. Margaret's story resonates with those seeking redemption and forgiveness.
Her life exemplifies the power of faith, service, and compassion.
She remains a source of inspiration for many Christians today.