Meet Venerable Anna Fulgida Bartolacelli
In a world where many think strength comes from appearance or success, Venerable Anna Fulgida Bartolacelli shows us that true strength comes from trust in God. She was a young woman who faced challenges many could never imagine, but she never let those challenges stop her from living a joyful and holy life.
Anna Fulgida was born in Italy in 1928 with dwarfism and fragile bones. She spent most of her life in a wheelchair, often in pain, and sometimes unable to do things others could. Yet, she never let her physical limitations stop her from living her faith. She loved attending Mass, praying the Rosary, and spending time in Adoration. She found her strength in Jesus, especially in the Eucharist, and believed that every moment of her suffering could be turned into a prayer for others.
When she was 28, she met Blessed Luigi Novarese, who helped people who were sick or disabled discover their mission in the Church. Anna joined the Silent Workers of the Cross, dedicating her life to serving others who suffered, offering them hope and reminding them that they were loved by God. She would write letters, pray with others, and encourage those who felt forgotten, showing them that each life has purpose, no matter its challenges.
Anna Fulgida’s life was marked by joy. Those who met her would often speak of her smile and the peace they felt in her presence. She believed that even when we feel small, God sees us and has a special plan for our lives. Her faith was not just about going to church but about living with trust, kindness, and offering daily sacrifices for others.
She passed away in 1993, leaving behind a legacy of faith, hope, and love. In June 2025, Pope Leo XIV recognized her heroic virtues, declaring her “Venerable,” which means the Church officially acknowledges that she lived a life of holiness worth imitating. Now, the Church awaits a miracle through her intercession for her to be beatified.
What We Can Learn from Anna Fulgida
Your worth does not depend on what you look like or what you can do. God loves you deeply and has a mission for your life.
Suffering can be transformed into love. Offering your struggles for others can help bring healing to the world.
Joy is a witness. Even when life is hard, your smile and kindness can be a light to others.
Prayer is powerful. Daily Mass, the Rosary, and spending time with Jesus in Adoration will give you the strength you need.
Anna Fulgida Bartolacelli’s story encourages young Catholic women to live with faith and courage no matter what challenges they face. She reminds us that holiness is possible in everyday life, in small acts of love, and in trusting Jesus with everything we have.
As you walk your journey of faith, remember Anna Fulgida, who with a small body but a big heart, proved that God can use your life to bring light to the world.