Sister Maria ND 5449 PDF Download
(formerly Sister Maria Betina)
Maria WORST
Holy Cross Province, Passo Fundo, RS, Brazil
Date and Place of Birth: May 21, 1943 Chapada, RS
Date and Place of Profession: February 11, 1964 Passo Fundo, RS
Date and Place of Death: October 1, 2024 Casa Betania, Não Me Toque
Date and Place of Burial: October 2, 2024 Santa Cruz Cemetery, Passo Fundo
Maria was born into a large family, the eighth of the fifteen children born to Alfredo and Oliva Worst. Her parents were farmers, earning their daily living from the land. From an early age, Maria and her siblings were involved in hard work, contributing their effort and dedication to ensure the family’s livelihood.
As a young woman, Maria came to know the Sisters of Notre Dame and the mission of the Congregation in her hometown of Chapada. Touched by this encounter, she felt called to follow Jesus Christ and live the Notre Dame charism. In 1962, she entered the Novitiate in Passo Fundo and received the name Sister Maria Betina. Later, she resumed her baptismal name. This year, Sister Maria joyfully celebrated the 60th anniversary of her religious profession, a milestone of deep gratitude to God for all the gifts received and spread throughout her life.
Sister Maria was known for her simplicity, humility, and spirit of prayer. She provided valuable and dedicated service as a cook in various local communities. In addition, she took care of general tasks in schools and hospitals and devoted herself to other ministries.
Sister Maria especially felt great joy and personal fulfillment in her apostolate as a Eucharistic Minister, visiting the sick and elderly, bringing them comfort, hope, and spiritual nourishment. The many intentions of the Church and the Congregation were always part of her daily prayers. Sister also took pleasure in preparing the liturgy and participating in community gatherings, whether of prayer or fraternal fellowship.
Sister Maria was deeply interested in reading about religious topics and often shared this knowledge with her fellow sisters, practices that deepened her own spiritual life. Sister had a great devotion to Our Lady. She prayed several rosaries each day and dedicated hours of her time to “counseling” and listening to sisters and others who sought her attention and guidance.
In recent years, as her health worsened due to diabetes, Sister Maria accepted the challenges inherent in the necessary restrictions and medical advice. This was especially true regarding her diet, which caused Sister distress.
On October 1st, the month dedicated to the Rosary and also the anniversary of the Congregation’s Foundation, Sister Maria was called to the glory of God. May she be rewarded for her life of dedication, joy, and simplicity. May her witness to faith in the small things of life inspire us to recognize great blessings.
Rest in Peace!
by Dreamhost