Born: 1876 (Bila Tserkva, Kyiv)
Biography:
Countess Róża Maria Czacka, also known as Elżbieta, was a Polish religious sister who made significant contributions to the education and empowerment of the blind. Born on October 22, 1876, in Bila Tserkva, Kyiv, she was the sixth of seven children in the noble Czacki family. Her father, Count Feliks Czacki, and her mother, Countess Zofia Ledóchowska, provided her with a thorough education and ensured that she received the best opportunities in life.
During her childhood, Róża had a life-altering accident that ultimately led to her losing her sight when she turned 22, despite numerous surgical interventions. This event profoundly impacted her life and motivated her to dedicate herself to helping those who were blind. In her 20s, she embarked on a journey throughout Europe, seeking knowledge about techniques that could assist the blind. During this time, she adapted Polish phonetics into the Braille alphabet, a system of raised dots that allows blind individuals to read and write. Her contributions were so significant that the Braille alphabet became mandated in all schools for the blind in 1934.
In 1917, Róża entered the Franciscan Third Order, embracing a life of religious devotion. She went on to found her own religious congregation, the Franciscan Sisters Servants of the Cross, in late 1918. The establishment of this congregation was based on ideas she had formulated since at least 1915, driven by her desire to serve the blind community. Her efforts were met with great appreciation, including the approval and support of Apostolic Nuncio Achille Ratti, who would later become Pope Pius XI. He recognized her work as an exceptional apostolate.
Róża served as the Superior General of her congregation from around 1923 until 1950, when declining health led her to retire from the position. Throughout her leadership, she focused on creating educational opportunities for the blind, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives. Under her guidance, the Franciscan Sisters Servants of the Cross expanded their reach, establishing schools and institutions dedicated to the education, care, and rehabilitation of the blind.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Róża’s process for beatification was initiated in 1988 in Poland. It later moved to Rome for further investigation. On October 9, 2017, Pope Francis confirmed her heroic virtue, granting her the title of Venerable. Subsequently, a miracle attributed to her intercession was approved in late 2020, paving the way for her beatification. This momentous event took place in Warsaw on September 12, 2021, marking the official recognition of Róża Czacka as a blessed figure worthy of veneration.
Róża Czacka’s life serves as an inspiration to all. Despite her own physical limitations, she dedicated herself to improving the lives of the blind and promoting their inclusion in society. Her pioneering work in adapting the Braille alphabet and establishing educational institutions has had a lasting impact on the lives of the visually impaired. She is a testament to the power of compassion, determination, and service, forever leaving her mark on women’s history.
Awards:
– Beatification (2021): Róża Czacka was beatified in Warsaw on September 12, 2021, by Pope Francis. This recognition signifies her exemplary life of virtue, dedication, and service to the blind community.