Rafqa Pietra Choboq Ar-Rayès

Sainte Rafqa

Rafqa Pietra Choboq Ar-Rayès (June 29, 1832 – March 23, 1914) was a Lebanese Maronite saint canonized by Pope John Paul II on June 10, 2001. Born in Himlaya, Mount Lebanon, she joined the Maronite Church and became a nun, dedicating her life to prayer and service. Rafqa is celebrated for her deep spirituality, enduring faith, and miraculous healings attributed to her intercession. Her feast day is observed on March 23.

Early Life

Rafqa was born to Mourad Saber El-Choboq El-Rayès and Rafqa Gemayel, a devout Christian family in the village of Himlaya, Mount Lebanon. After losing her mother at a young age, Rafqa's life was filled with hardships. Despite these challenges, she was deeply religious from an early age, finding solace and strength in her faith.

Religious Life

At the age of 21, Rafqa decided to dedicate her life to God and joined the Maronite Marian Order. She took her religious vows in 1853, committing herself to a life of prayer, service, and celibacy. Rafqa's spiritual journey led her to join the Congregation of the Lebanese Maronite Sisters, where she spent the rest of her life.

Throughout her years in the convent, Rafqa experienced numerous health challenges, including blindness and paralysis. However, she accepted her sufferings with remarkable patience and joy, offering them up as a sacrifice to God. Her unwavering faith and the miraculous healings attributed to her intercession after her death have inspired many.

Canonization

The process of Rafqa's canonization began in the early 20th century, culminating in her beatification by Pope John Paul II on November 17, 1985, and her subsequent canonization on June 10, 2001. Rafqa's life and miracles were thoroughly examined, affirming her profound holiness and the impact of her intercessory prayers.

Legacy

Saint Rafqa is venerated in the Maronite Church and beyond, recognized for her deep spiritual life, her acceptance of suffering, and her powerful intercession. She is a model of faith and perseverance in adversity, inspiring the faithful to trust in God's will and to find joy in the midst of trials.

Her shrine in Lebanon has become a place of pilgrimage, where many come to seek her intercession and to be inspired by her life. Saint Rafqa's legacy continues to influence not only the Maronite community but also Christians around the world, drawing them closer to God through her example of holiness and devotion.

See Also

• List of Saints of the Maronite Church
• Maronite Church
• Canonization
• Pope John Paul II