Blessed Maria Romero

Beata Maria Romero was born on January 13, 1902, in the city of Granada, Nicaragua. She belonged to a middle-class Catholic family, made up of her parents Félix and Ana, as well as thirteen children. From an early age, she was educated and instructed in the faith by her parents, receiving religious training and traditional academic education.

Vow of Chastity

At the age of twelve, Maria Romero entered the School of the Daughters of Mary Help of Christians, which had recently opened in her country. However, due to a serious illness, she had to leave school and return home. With the consent of her confessor, she took a private vow of chastity.

Consecration to God and Our Lady

In 1923, Maria Romero consecrated herself to God and Our Lady, taking religious vows. After that, she was transferred to the mission in Costa Rica, where she taught music, drawing, typing and also taught catechesis to young people in the region of the capital São José.

Evangelization to the Poor and Homeless

In 1961, Blessed Maria Romero began offering professional qualification courses for needy young people and adults. Furthermore, she created a general clinical hospital aimed especially at the poor and, in 1973, obtained land to build houses for the homeless on the outskirts of the city. This place became known as Cidade de Santa Maria, in honor of its founder.

Gift of Council

In addition to all this charitable work, Blessed Maria Romero also had the gift of advice, which she did not deny to anyone.

Death and Beatification

Blessed Maria Romero died on July 7, 1977, while returning from a rest in Nicaragua. Her remains were buried in the Church of Saint Joseph in Costa Rica, and she was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2000.

Blessed Maria Romero was a devout lady of faith, who consecrated her life to charity and evangelization of those most in need, sharing her gift of advice with everyone.