Buenos Aires - The Archbishop of Santa Fe de la Vera Cruz in Argentina, Sergio Fenoy, has authorized the commencement of the preliminary process for the potential canonization of Sister Cecilia María of the Holy Face, a Carmelite nun from Neuquén province who passed away from cancer in 2016 at the age of 43.

Dated February 14th, the decree is signed by the Archbishop of Santa Fe because Sister Cecilia resided in the Carmelite monastery within the archdiocese from 1997 until her death in 2016.

The document highlights Sister Cecilia's profound devotion to Jesus Christ, even in the face of severe trials, which has inspired many to deepen their commitment to Christian life.

Recognizing the increasing recognition of her holiness and reported signs over the years, the preliminary process for her canonization was initiated following a formal request by the postulator, Friar Marco Chiesa.

The faithful are urged to provide any information relevant to Sister Cecilia María's reputation for holiness, whether favorable or unfavorable, by contacting the Archdiocese of Santa Fe de la Vera Cruz via email or postal mail.

As part of the procedure, the archdiocese appeals to anyone possessing writings by Sister Cecilia to submit them promptly.

The decree will be publicly posted for three months in various locations, including the Santa Fe cathedral, the St. Joseph and St. Teresa Carmelite monastery, as well as in archdiocesan basilicas, shrines, and official media.

Sister Cecilia of the Holy Face
Cecilia María Sánchez Sorondo was born on December 5, 1973, in San Martín de los Andes, Neuquén province, Argentina. She entered the Discalced Carmelites monastery in Santa Fe at the age of 24, taking the name Cecilia María of the Holy Face.

Known for her outgoing and joyful personality, she embraced a life of prayer and contemplation, playing the violin and radiating warmth and kindness to those around her.

Diagnosed with tongue cancer, her condition worsened with lung metastasis, leading to hospitalization. Despite her illness, she continued to pray and offer her sufferings, convinced of her imminent reunion with God.

Her final wish, expressed on a piece of paper, was for a prayerful yet celebratory funeral, reflecting her profound faith and joyful spirit.

Her inspiring testimony and images from her final days resonated globally, particularly her unwavering smile until her passing on June 23, 2016, in Buenos Aires.