Eustochia Smeralda Calafato

Saint Eustochia Smeralda Calafato was born on March 25, 1434, in Santissima Annunziata near Messina, Italy, where her family had taken refuge during a plague. The daughter of a prosperous merchant, she was admired for her beauty, yet from her youth she longed to belong wholly to Christ. At fifteen, despite strong opposition from her family and even threats against the convent, she entered the Poor Clares at Basicò and received the name Eustochia. For more than a decade she lived a hidden life marked by fervent prayer, fasting, vigils, and a deep love for the poverty of Saint Clare. Desiring a more faithful observance of the rule, and with papal approval, she founded the monastery of Montevergine in Messina and was chosen its abbess. Under her gentle firmness, the community grew, and her holiness drew many souls to God. She died in Messina on January 20, 1485. Venerated as co-patroness of Messina, her incorrupt body rests at Montevergine. Her feast day is January 20.