I learned of Mariangela's death when I returned to Rome after summer, leafing through Ombre e Luci. The grief was profound. My husband and I met Paolo and Mariangela back in 1968 at Lourdes, bound together by the cruel fate that had struck our two firstborn daughters, Francesca and Augusta. Among us, united by the same sorrow and deep bewilderment, there was immediately great understanding and warmth.
In the years that followed, we stayed in touch and witnessed, my husband and I, the birth of the Fede e Luce association and the Ombre e Luci magazine. Over time our meetings grew less frequent as life drew us in different directions. Now, in the present, only Paolo and I remain, since my husband died a little over a year ago. What can one say of Mariangela? How to remember her? A simple woman, yet noble in spirit, possessed of an uncommon humanity. The rich legacy of values, virtues, and gospel love she carried—she poured out into her beautiful family, and gave freely, with open hands, to disabled children without autonomy and to their families.
I remember perfectly that day at Lourdes, by the pools, when we stood side by side immersing our daughters in the blessed water. It was like a scene from the Gospels! What sustained her was a profound faith, an unlimited trust in the help of the Virgin of Lourdes. The strength of spirit that upheld her through every trial of life shone through on her face, always lit by a wide and reassuring smile. This precious inheritance she has left behind must be protected, must be shared, must be strengthened by the new generations who welcome young people animated by good intentions. She, surely from above, will illuminate their way.
Mariangela, Luigi, Augusta, and Francesca have now returned to the Father's house. For Paolo and me, there remains only to take courage and pray that they will protect us in whatever years the Lord may yet grant us.
Adriana Lunghi, 2014
