BLESSED MARCELINA DAROWSKA – A NOTABLE EXAMPLE OF POLISH MYSTICISM OF THE 19TH CENTURY

Blessed Marcelina Darowska (1827–1911), founder of the Congregation of the Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, stands out from the numerous Polish mystics of the 19th century primarily because of her rich experience of mystical life and the original theory of mysticism (mystology) contained in her writings. She left a two-volume ascetic-mystical treatise, spiritual notes (“Diary”), many letters to spiritual directors and some sisters, as well as texts of retreats that she preached to students and various people. She created her own mystical language.As an outstanding representative of 19th-century Polish mysticism, she stands out from other trends in mystical life, including: healthy patriotism, Marian piety with particular emphasis on the title of Mary Queen of Poland, apostolate in the education of girls and women, and the development of various forms of folk piety that strengthen National identity.It had a wide impact on Polish, Belarusian and Ukrainian society, mainly through educational institutions for girls. She also maintained active contacts, including: with Saint archbishop Józef Bilczewski, Saint archbishop Szczęsny Feliński and other outstanding personalities of the spiritual and social life of those times.