The diocese is currently looking at two nuns from Vorau who died in the 20th century: they can be beatified. But in the end, the decision falls to the Pope.
Will two Styrian women be beatified for the first time in white-green history? This question will be asked in the coming months and years by the Diocese of Graz-Seckau, which has now started the process of beatification for two sisters from Eastern Styria. Central to this unique church-historical step: Barbara Sicharter, who founded the “Congregation of the Sisters of the Immaculate Conception in Vorau” in 1865, and Maria Krückl, who lived as a novice in the religious community.
What is beatification? With the so-called beatification, the Catholic Church states that a deceased “lived an exemplary life by faith and followed Christ in a special way”. This results in the official recommendation to accept this person as a role model and as a mediator with God. He can be worshiped in public in a certain region.
The Pope gives the Sanctuary at the end
However, a complex process must be completed beforehand. The respective local church makes a thorough investigation into the life and death of the deceased, after which the Vatican scrutinizes the files. If necessary, the congregation also seeks out reports of miracles that have taken place. In the end, the Pope gives the Sanctuary – or not.
Bishop Wilhelm Krautwaschl opened the two beatification procedures during a service in the chapel of the Sisters of Mary in Vorau. “I am convinced that the light of these two women from Eastern Styria will shine even more in the future.”
Both nuns are from Wenigzell
Barbara Sicharter (1829 to 1905) was born in Wenigzell. She was the founder of the Vorau Order of the “Blue Sisters”, as it was popularly known for the color of the order’s dress. An ‘exemplary life of faith’ applies to them.
Maria Krückl (1918 to 1945) also grew up in Wenigzell and joined the Vorau Sisters in 1944 as a novice. On April 8, 1945, she resisted the rape by a Russian soldier – he shot the brave woman. She could have been martyred.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
