BAOUARDY, MARIA

BAOUARDY, MARIA. — In religion MARIA OF JESUS CRUCIFIED, Discalced Carmelite, b. at Abellin (Greek-Melchite diocese of St. John of Acre) on 5 Jan. 1846, d. at Bethlehem on 26 Aug. 1878. At thirteen she refused a prepared marriage and endured martyrdom for the faith; miraculously cured, she served as a domestic; refused admission to vows among the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Apparition, she became a Carmelite at Pau, professing four years later as a lay sister. She inspired the foundation of the Carmel at Bethlehem. Her mystical life was extraordinary, marked by simplicity. The cause was introduced in Rome on 18 May 1927.