St. Margaret of Cortona

St. Margaret of Cortona was a penitent and Franciscan tertiary who, after a life of sin, became a model of repentance, prayer, and service to the poor.

St. Margaret of Cortona was born in 1247 in Laviano, a small village near Cortona, Italy. Losing her mother at a young age, Margaret grew up feeling unloved and neglected, and in her teenage years, she sought affection elsewhere. She eventually entered into a relationship with a wealthy young man, living as his mistress for several years and bearing him a son. Although Margaret hoped to marry him, he refused.

Margaret’s life changed dramatically when her lover was murdered. Overcome with grief and realizing the sinful nature of her life, she returned to Cortona and sought to begin anew. Rejected by her father and stepmother, Margaret turned to the Franciscan friars for help. Through their guidance, she embraced a life of deep penance, fasting, prayer, and service to the poor and sick.

Margaret joined the Third Order of St. Francis, dedicating herself to radical poverty and humility. She lived simply, practiced severe austerities, and devoted herself to acts of charity. Despite her earlier life, her holiness shone so brightly that many came to her for spiritual counsel. She also experienced mystical visions and divine revelations, which she shared with her Franciscan confessors.

Later in life, Margaret founded a hospital in Cortona and organized a congregation of tertiary sisters to aid in its operation. She tirelessly cared for the poor, sick, and outcast, seeing Christ in each of them. Her life became a powerful testimony to God's endless mercy and the possibility of radical transformation through grace.

Margaret died on February 22, 1297, and miracles were reported at her tomb. She was canonized by Pope Benedict XIII on May 16, 1728. Today, she is honored as the patron saint of the falsely accused, homeless, reformed prostitutes, and single mothers.

Feast Day

22-2-

Birth Date

--1247

Died Date

22-2-1297

Canonised Date

16-5-1728

Basilica of Santa Margherita, Cortona, Italy

St. Margaret of Cortona, guide of penitents and comforter of the sorrowful, help us to trust in God's mercy and to turn our hearts fully to Him in repentance and love. Amen.
ST. MARGARET OF CORTONA

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ST. MARGARET OF CORTONA

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