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| Beata Beatrice II d'Este, ora pro nobis |
January 18th is the Feast of Blessed Beatrice II d’Este (ca.1230-1262), Benedictine Nun and Foundress. Daughter of Azzo VII, Marquis d’Este, and Joan of Apulia, she was betrothed to Galeazzo Manfredi, Duke of Vincenza and Veradino, who fell in battle against Emperor Frederick II before they could be married. Following the Duke’s death, Beatrice consecrated herself to God and retired to a monastic life under the Rule of St. Benedict. She founded the Benedictine Monastery at the Church of Sant’Antonio Abate in Ferrara. Beata Beatrice II d’Este should not be confused with her aunt Beata Beatrice I d’Este, whose feast is celebrated on May 10th.
In celebration, we’re posting a prayer to Blessed Beatrice II d’Este in Italian. The accompanying photos come courtesy of Father Eugene Carrella. The holy cards are part of Father Carrella’s impressive collection of religious artifacts. Evviva Beata Beatrice II d’Este!
Preghiera
O Beata Beatrice, le tue braccia allargate e segnate dagli stessi patimenti di Cristo ci abituino ad amare la Croce, nostra salvezza. La tua acqua che continua a bagnare la tua tomba sia il segno della necessità del perdono, del servizio che purifica la nostra vita e costruisce fraternità. Così sia.
