St. Mariam Bawardy, born in 1846 in I'billin, Israel, was a mystic and nun of the Carmelite Order. She is known for her intense spiritual devotion, profound mystical experiences, and commitment to a life of prayer and service. She entered the Carmelite convent in Bethlehem, where she lived a life of humility and self-sacrifice. She passed away at the age of 32 and was canonized by Pope Francis in 2015.
St. Mariam Bawardy, also known as Mariam of Bethlehem, was born on May 5, 1846, in the village of I'billin in Galilee, which was part of the Ottoman Empire at the time and is now in Israel. She was born into a Christian family of Greek Catholic faith, but her early life was marked by tragedy. After her parents passed away when she was still a child, she was sent to live with relatives. Despite facing hardship and loss from an early age, Mariam found solace in her Christian faith and developed a deep, mystical spirituality.
Her spiritual journey began in earnest when she experienced a series of profound visions of Christ and the Virgin Mary. These mystical experiences marked the beginning of a life entirely devoted to God. At the age of 16, she made the decision to enter religious life, seeking to become a nun. Mariam faced opposition from her family and others around her, but her determination to follow God's calling was unwavering.
Mariam eventually entered the Carmelite convent in Bethlehem, taking the name Sister Mariam of the Cross. She lived a life of intense prayer, deep devotion, and self-sacrifice. Throughout her life in the convent, she had numerous mystical experiences, including visions of the suffering of Christ and the Virgin Mary. She also experienced the stigmata, the wounds of Christ, though they were not permanent. Her spirituality was marked by a profound sense of God's presence and an unshakeable commitment to her religious vows.
In addition to her mystical gifts, St. Mariam Bawardy was known for her humility, charity, and care for others. She was deeply involved in the daily work of the convent, helping with the care of the poor and the sick. Her life was characterized by a quiet but powerful inner peace, and she inspired those around her with her intense faith and love for God.
St. Mariam passed away at the age of 32, on August 26, 1878. Her death was mourned by those who had known her, but her legacy continued to inspire those who sought to live lives of prayer and devotion. Her canonization process was initiated in the late 20th century, and she was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 1983. On May 17, 2015, she was canonized a saint by Pope Francis, recognizing her holiness and the profound impact of her life on the Catholic Church.
St. Mariam Bawardy's life is a testament to the power of prayer, humility, and mystical devotion. Her example continues to inspire those who seek to deepen their relationship with God and live lives of service and love.