Daniela Zanetta

In 1973, Daniela discovered the spirituality of the Focolare Movement and became involved with the Gen. She was actively involved in her parish of Maggiora as a catechist and secretary of the youth group. During her hospitalizations, she devoted herself to other sick children. From 1983 onwards, she wrote a diary in the form of letters to Jesus. In November 1984, she published a poignant letter in Famiglia Cristiana, titled "L'angolo della speranza" (The Corner of Hope), testifying to the beauty of life despite her heavy physical suffering.

At the beginning of 1986, Daniela's health deteriorated irremediably. She spent her final weeks in prayer and union with God, distributing her savings to the most destitute. She passed away peacefully on April 14, 1986, in Maggiora. Her funeral, celebrated in a luminous atmosphere of joy and hope, brought together a vast crowd.

Daniela's reputation for holiness spread rapidly. On October 17, 2004, Bishop Renato Corti of Novara opened the diocesan process, which concluded on April 29, 2006, at the Sanctuary of the Holy Crucifix in Boca. On March 23, 2017, Pope Francis authorized the promulgation of the decree recognizing the heroic nature of her virtues, declaring her venerable.

Daniela's spirituality is based on the joyful acceptance of suffering, which she considered an umbilical cord binding her to Christ. Her spiritual legacy is disseminated through her diary, "I segreti del cuore". Her life also inspires the association "Il giardino delle rose blu" and remains a prophetic witness to human dignity.