St. Lucy Filippini

St. Lucy Filippini was born in 1672 in Corneto-Tarquinia, a city that existed before Rome was built. She lost both her parents by the age of six and was raised by her aunt and uncle. Cardinal Mark Anthony Barbarigo made a visit to Corneto and she followed him to Montefiascone. Under the Cardinal's guidance, Lucy became a key factor in his plan to open schools for young ladies, particularly children of the poor. Lucy would head the schools that were founded to promote the dignity of womanhood and help to influence a healthy family life. The 52 schools that were established during Lucy's lifetime taught domestic arts, weaving, embroidering, reading, and Christian doctrine.

Lucy died in 1732, and was canonized in 1930. Her mission, which began over 300 years ago, continues today through schools in Europe, the United States, Brazil, Ethiopia and India. Her Feast Day is March 25.