May 14 Saint Maria Mazzarello

Patron Saint Against Sickness

I think she should also be the Patron Saint of Big Sisters. The oldest of ten children, she (according to one biographer) “learned the lessons typical of a big sister.” She worked first as a field hand then as a dress maker. When working as dressmaker, she met her  friend Petronilla. They both shared a love of working with small children. They started a school for girls that soon turned into a boarding school. Each Sunday they offered the local girls, whether students or not, the chance to come to the school for games and prayers.

Co-founder of the Daughters of Mary Auxiliatrix, which was under the spritual direction of Saint John Bosco. First Salesian Sister, and superior of the order.