Blessed Maria of Jesus Siedliska was a Polish nun and founder of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, devoted to serving families and promoting Christian values.
Born on November 12, 1842, in Roszkowa Wola, Congress Poland, Maria Franciszka Siedliska was raised in a noble family. Initially indifferent to her faith, she experienced a spiritual awakening during her adolescence, leading her to a deep commitment to God. Despite her father's opposition to her religious aspirations, she pursued her vocation following his death in 1870.
In 1873, with the encouragement of her spiritual director, she sought and received Pope Pius IX's blessing to establish a new religious congregation. The Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth were founded in Rome in 1875, focusing on emulating the virtues of the Holy Family and serving families through education and pastoral care.
Mother Maria of Jesus expanded the congregation internationally, establishing communities in Poland, France, England, and the United States. She arrived in New York in 1885, responding to the needs of Polish immigrants. Her leadership was marked by humility, dedication, and a profound trust in Divine Providence.
She passed away on November 21, 1902, in Rome. Her beatification process began in 1922, and she was declared Venerable in 1980. Pope John Paul II beatified her on April 23, 1989 .