Who is the Latest Saint- Discover the Recent Canonization of a Modern Saint
Who is the most recent person to become a saint? This question often sparks curiosity and intrigue among those interested in religious history and spirituality. The most recent canonization took place in 2020, when Pope Francis declared Sister Maria Elisabeth Hesselblad, a Swedish nurse and missionary, a saint. Her life of selfless dedication and service to others has inspired many, and her canonization serves as a testament to the power of faith and compassion.
Sister Maria Elisabeth Hesselblad was born on January 4, 1870, in Stockholm, Sweden. She was the daughter of a wealthy family, but her life took a different path when she felt called to serve others. At the age of 21, she left her comfortable life behind and joined the Sisters of the Holy Cross, a religious order dedicated to serving the poor and sick. She spent the next 40 years working in various missions, including serving as a nurse during World War I and the Spanish Civil War.
Her dedication to helping those in need was not limited to her work as a nurse. Sister Maria Elisabeth was also a peace activist and a strong advocate for women’s rights. She founded the Swedish branch of the Catholic Peace Movement and worked tirelessly to promote peace and reconciliation in times of conflict. Her efforts were not in vain, as she played a significant role in the establishment of the Scandinavian Peace Foundation.
One of the most notable aspects of Sister Maria Elisabeth’s life was her close relationship with Pope Pius XII. She was the first woman to receive an audience with the Pope, and she was instrumental in bringing him to Sweden during World War II. Her friendship with the Pope was based on a shared commitment to peace and justice, and she often acted as a bridge between the Vatican and the Swedish government.
After her death on June 12, 1957, Sister Maria Elisabeth’s legacy continued to inspire many. Her life of service, compassion, and dedication to peace earned her the title of “Servant of God” in 1987. In 2016, Pope Francis recognized her heroic virtues and declared her venerable. Finally, in 2020, she was canonized as a saint, becoming the first Swedish woman to be recognized in this way.
The canonization of Sister Maria Elisabeth Hesselblad serves as a reminder of the profound impact that one person can have on the world. Her selfless dedication to others, her commitment to peace, and her advocacy for women’s rights have left an indelible mark on history. As the most recent person to become a saint, she continues to inspire and motivate people around the world to live lives of service and compassion.
