The Young, Dying Nun Whose Smile Touched the World

Here is the story behind the viral photos of the Carmelite nun dying of cancer who was filled with great joy, knowing she would soon meet Jesus.

Sister Cecilia Maria in her final days
Sister Cecilia Maria in her final days (photo: Curia Generalizia Carmelitani Scalzi)

BUENOS AIRES — Pictures of a young Argentinian nun, smiling and serene though dying from a devastating battle with cancer, have spread like wildfire on social media, with thousands sharing the images and heartfelt prayers.

Sister Cecilia Maria lived in Sts. Teresa and Joseph Monastery in Santa Fe, Argentina, where she was dedicated to prayer and the contemplative life.

She passed away early on June 22 at the age of 43.

After graduating as a nurse at 26 years old Sister Cecilia Maria made her first vows as a discalced Carmelite. In 2003, she made her final profession. Six months ago, she was diagnosed with cancer of the tongue, and the disease metastasized into her lungs.

In her time living at the monastery, she played the violin and was known for her sweetness and constant smile. In the final weeks of her illness, her condition worsened, and she had to be hospitalized. From her bed, she never stopped praying and offering up her sufferings, with the certainty that her encounter with God was near.

She wrote her last wish on a piece of paper: “I was thinking about how I would like my funeral to be. First, some intense prayer, and then a great celebration for everyone. Don't forget to pray, but don't forget to celebrate either!”

The discalced Carmelites announced her death as follows: “Jesus! Just two lines to let you know that our dearly beloved sister gently fell asleep in the Lord, after such a painful illness, always borne with joy and her surrender to her Divine Spouse. We send you all our love, grateful for your support and prayer during this entire time, so painful yet so wonderful at the same time. We believe she flew directly to heaven, but we also ask you to not cease commending her to your prayers, so from heaven she may repay you. A big hug from her sisters in Santa Fe.”

Scuola del Cuoio focuses on the craft of leathergoods.

Catholic Business Profile: Scuola del Cuoio

Located inside the Franciscan monastery of Santa Croce, it was founded in 1950 by Marcello Gori and his brother-in-law Silvano Casini to teach the art of leatherworking to World War II orphans.