Marie de la Passion, also known as Marie Adèle Garnier, who was a French nun and founder of the Sisters of the Passion.
Marie Adèle Garnier was born on 22 June 1838 in Grancey-le-Château, France. From an early age, she showed a deep religious devotion. In 1857, she founded the Congregation of the Sisters of the Passion, whose charism focused on meditating on the Passion of Christ and serving those most in need.
The life of Mary of the Passion is marked by her commitment to works of mercy and her profound spirituality centred on the suffering of Christ. She dedicated her life to serving the poor, the sick and the marginalised, inspiring her sisters to follow the same path of dedication and charity.
Her writings reflect a deep reflection on the Passion of Christ and how it can be lived contemplatively on a daily basis. She encouraged her sisters to immerse themselves in prayer and to seek God's presence in the midst of their apostolic activities.
Marie de la Passion also played a key role in the expansion of her congregation. The Sisters of the Passion established missions in various parts of the world, meeting the spiritual and material needs of the communities they served.
She was beatified by Pope John Paul II on 20 November 1994, receiving the title "Blessed Mary of the Passion". The beatification recognises her Christian heroism and her exceptional dedication to religious life and charitable works.
Blessed Mary of the Passion remains an inspirational figure for many Christians, particularly those who follow Passionist spirituality. Her life and work continue to touch the hearts of those who seek to deepen their relationship with God and to live a life of service and compassion towards others.
This brief introduction to Blessed Mary of the Passion can be deepened further by exploring her writings, the testimonies of her contemporaries and the charitable works that carry her spiritual legacy.
