In her late 20s, Sister Maria Theresa Weber led a religious community in Steinerberg, Switzerland. People who knew her considered her a holy woman, even in her youth. Her life was brief, marked by suffering, humble dedication, and a passionate contemplation of the Crucified Christ in the mystery of his blood.

Four biological sisters joined the Adorers in the early years of the congregation. They became important companions to St. Maria De Mattias, foundress of the Adorers of the Blood of Christ.

Maria de Mattias educated women and children during a time in history when it was unpopular to do so. She cared for the poor, and led a community of women that spread throughout the world.

This book tells the story of Sister Clementine Zerr, a woman who was central to the foundation of the U.S. Adorers of the Blood of Christ.

This book tells the story of St. Maria De Mattias, a woman known for her courage and commitment. This well-written narrative of the foundress of the international order of Catholic Sisters, the Adorers of the Blood of Christ, invites us to join a saint on her journey.

Sister Clementine Zerr had come to East St. Louis looking for a place to establish a central house. Since 1889, she had had sisters at St. Henry’s and St. Mary’s, two of East St. Louis’ three parishes, but she needed a place to carry out her congregation’s distinctive task of educating young girls in boarding schools and she needed a central house for the sisters, easily accessible by train.