Marie-Thérèse of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (1782–1876)

With profound faith, courage, and compassion, Maria Teresa Haze — known in religious life as Marie-Thérèse of the Sacred Heart of Jesus — founded the Congregation of the Daughters of the Cross of Liège in 1833, guided by the ideal of serving God through others, especially the most vulnerable.

Inspired by the mystery of the Cross, a symbol of Christ’s redeeming love, she found in human suffering a place of mission and self-giving. Together with other young women who shared the same ideal, she began a work that, through simplicity and dedication, would spread to many countries, bringing comfort, education, and hope.

Animada pelo mistério da Cruz, símbolo do amor redentor de Cristo, ela encontrou na dor humana um espaço de missão e entrega. Ao lado de outras jovens com o mesmo ideal, deu início a uma obra que, com simplicidade e dedicação, se espalharia por diversos países, levando consolo, formação e esperança.

Her spirituality, centered on the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was reflected in her attention to small gestures, her trust in Divine Providence, and her deep desire to live according to the Gospel.

Maria Teresa Haze died in 1876, but her legacy lives on in the mission of the Daughters of the Cross, who continue to follow in their foundress’s footsteps with love, humility, and faithfulness to God’s call.

“The Cross is the way of life; whoever trusts in it walks with Christ.” — Marie-Thérèse of the Sacred Heart