Today, on Day 347 of Saints in a Year, we honor Blessed Alexandrina Maria da Costa, a Portuguese Catholic mystic and Salesian Cooperator.

Born in 1904, Alexandrina suffered life-changing injuries at fourteen while escaping a threatened sexual assault.

By 1925, she was permanently bedridden.

During the following decades, she developed a profound devotion to the Eucharist and reported extraordinary mystical experiences connected with the Passion of Jesus.

Among the most remarkable claims associated with her life was that she received no ordinary nourishment for more than thirteen years, living only on Holy Communion. Her reported condition was subjected to periods of medical observation, although the full duration was not continuously verified.

Alexandrina also promoted devotion to the Immaculate Heart of Mary and joined the Salesian Cooperators in 1944, offering her prayers for the salvation of souls, especially young people.

She died on October 13, 1955, and Pope Saint John Paul II beatified her on April 25, 2004.

Her life reminds us that holiness is not measured by physical strength, productivity, or public recognition.

Scripture

"Now I rejoice in my sufferings for your sake."

Colossians 1:24

Thought to Remember

"I am happy, because I am going to Heaven."

After decades of suffering, Alexandrina's final words expressed her hope in Christ.

Prayer

Blessed Alexandrina Maria da Costa, pray for those who are sick, disabled, bedridden, or suffering in silence. Teach us to love Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, care for those in need, and remain close to Christ when life becomes difficult.

Blessed Alexandrina Maria da Costa, pray for us. Amen.

Please like, comment, share, and subscribe to @TravelingtoDamascus as we continue our journey through the lives of the saints and blesseds, one day at a time.

#BlessedAlexandrina #AlexandrinaMariaDaCosta #EucharisticDevotion #SalesianFamily #DonBosco #CatholicMystics #CatholicFaith #SaintsInAYear #TheRoadToDamascus