The Life of Saint Margaret of Cortona

Prologue

ProLogue Here begins the legenda concerning the life and miracles of blessed Margaret of Cortona. I considered it to be sufficiently advantageous to gather for fervent minds not all—for that would not be possible—but certain flowers concerning the admirable life of Margaret, who was exceptionally devoted to God, and who performed austere penance in Cortona, and also to display the degrees of her virtues and her numerous graces—compiled by order of my superior—in eleven chapters, so that holy mother Church, who always is nourished, is renewed, and rejoices in new produce, may feed her children with these fresh examples. However, I respectfully suggest to wise readers as they find something in the legenda not properly inserted in its place that they put it where it ought to be placed, since— God knows—hindered by so many matters, I have lacked the free time to arrange the parts. Therefore, in the name of our crucified Lord Jesus, from whom all good things come because he is true God, I begin. The first chapter concerns her way of life in the secular habit. The second her complete hope in and conversion to God. The third her life and observance of austerity and love of poverty. The fourth her deep humility and self-contempt. The fifth her meditation on the cross of Christ and joyful patience in tribulation. The sixth her effusive prayer and abundance of contemplation. The Life and Miracles of Saint Margaret of Cortona 44 The seventh the purity of her conscience and her frequent confession and communion. The eighth her maternal and sweet concern for all and her tireless zeal for winning souls. The ninth the revelation of her own state and of others living and dead. The tenth the unspeakable fear of her every action and her desire for the end. The eleventh the miracles that happened in her life and after her passing. ...