Feast Day: February 26
Beatification: March 10, 2001, by Pope St. John Paul II
Early Life and Vocation
Blessed Piedad de la Cruz Ortiz Real was born on November 12, 1842, in Bocairente, Valencia, Spain. She was raised in a devout Catholic family, which instilled in her a deep faith and a strong devotion to the Eucharist and the Blessed Virgin Mary. From an early age, she felt called to a life of holiness and service, dedicating herself to God with a special concern for the poor and the sick.
As she grew older, Piedad discerned a religious vocation but faced several challenges in entering religious life. Despite her initial difficulties, she remained firm in her commitment to serving Christ and others.
Founding of the Congregation
After years of prayer and discernment, Blessed Piedad de la Cruz founded the Congregation of the Salesian Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (Hermanas Salesianas del Sagrado Corazón de Jesús) in 1890. The congregation was dedicated to the care of the sick, the education of children, and the service of the poor. She placed her work under the patronage of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, emphasizing a spirituality rooted in love, humility, and charity.
Her religious community quickly gained recognition for its dedication to both spiritual and corporal works of mercy. The sisters provided education, health care, and assistance to those in need, particularly in Spain.
Life of Holiness and Death
Blessed Piedad de la Cruz lived a life of profound humility and charity. She spent countless hours in prayer, especially before the Blessed Sacrament, drawing strength from Christ for her apostolic works. She suffered from physical ailments but offered her sufferings as a sacrifice for the Church and for souls.
She passed away on February 26, 1916, in Alcantarilla, Murcia, Spain, leaving behind a legacy of faith, service, and dedication to the Heart of Christ.
Beatification and Legacy
Recognized for her heroic virtues, Pope St. John Paul II beatified her on March 10, 2001. Today, her congregation continues its mission, carrying forward her charism of love and service.
Blessed Piedad de la Cruz is remembered as a model of selfless devotion and trust in God’s providence, inspiring many to live a life of charity and faithfulness to Christ.