(1268-1317) Agnes was born to Italian nobility near Montepulciano, Italy, then part of the Papal States. By nine years old Agnes convinced her parents to let her enter a Franciscan monastery. She was made prioress of a monastery in Proceno at 15, receiving special permission from the pope to be made so. 15 years later, Agnes returned to Montepulciano to found a Dominican monastery and serve as its abbess until her death at 49 years old. She was devoted to the Blessed Sacrament, had a deep prayer life, and was a mystic and a miracle worker. Agnes was also a peacemaker between warring families in Italy. She is said to have been a great inspiration for Saint Catherine of Siena.
Being a mystic and miracle worker may not be something many of us can comprehend, but one simple lesson we learn from her life is how to lead by example. In recovery, we guide the newcomer by our example. How are you giving witness to a way of life that the still-suffering can be inspired by?
“Jesus alone is enough. Let Him be your joy, your strength, and your reward” (Saint Agnes of Montepulciano).
Reflection by Brad Farmer