“True Education is that of the heart, without which there is no successful personality formation and maturity” Blessed Brigida Morello of Jesus, Foundress of the Congregation of the Ursulines of Mary Immaculate, lived in the seventeenth century, in Piacenza, Italy. Born on 10th June, 1610 in a deeply pious family, Brigida grew up and bloomed in an atmosphere of religious virtues and prayer. “Love of God and neighbour” was her motto. For the realization of her ideal, she began her life of dedication and service, with the specific aim of educating young girls. Greatly favored by grace from her early childhood, she possessed in a high degree the gifts of contemplation, prophecy and of miracles. Bridgida Morello, a name that has occupied a place in history. She was a mystic of the 17th century, endowed with special gifts of mystical union with God. At that time women hardly had any place in society. But this lady of vision overcame obstacles of all types. Petty wars and Industrial revolts had played havoc, creating instability in families. Women and children were the worst affected. Brigida could not be blind to the need of the hour. Responding to the call, with six other ladies, Brigida dedicated herself to the cause of the education of the young girls. Thus was born the Congregation of the Ursulines of Mary Immaculate (UMI), at Piacenza, Italy on February 17th 1649. Now The congregation has spread to other countries like India, Brazil and Africa. After a long period of illness for 24 years, she flew for her eternal reward on 3rd September 1679. She was called Blessed on 15th March 1998 by the then POPE JOHN PAUL II Blessed Brigida loved Mary, the Immaculate Mother of God, with tenderness. She venerated her and instilled in her daughters the truth that Mary is the most faithful follower of Her Son, Jesus. Loving and imitating her, is the shortest way to holiness. (Ad Jesum per Maria – to Jesus through Mary) Constant union with God would be possible by devotion to the Eucharist, to the Word of God, wholly abandoned to His Providence. Such was the spirituality of Brigida who, with filial devotion, could exclaim: “Confidence, Confidence! A large heart! God is a Father and He will never abandon us!”