Sister Candida Bellotti, Italy’s oldest native-born nun, celebrated her 110th birthday on Monday, February 20th, and received well-wishes from Pope Francis.
Sister Bellottiwas born in Verona, Italy and became a nun in 1931.
She worked as a nurse for the Ministre degli Infermi di San Camillo for several years and now lives in a convent in Lucca.
When she turned 107-yeras-old in 2014, she met Pope Francis and joined in a Mass at Rome.
This year, the Pontiff said he “shared the joy of the happy celebration [of her birthday] and sent congratulations and heartfelt wishes.”
After his kind message, Sister Bellotti decided to share a few words on her longevity and how others could live a long life as well.
“Love, love and keep on loving. With joy!” she explained. “Have faith in the future, and put in as much work as you can to make your wishes come true.”
When her cake was cut and she received the rest of her birthday well-wishes, Sister Bellotti explained one must “take things as they come.”
She further stated: “Throughout my life, I have always thought to myself: Where God puts me, that is the right place for me.”
Sister Bellotti survived two world wars, 10 popes and 57 Italian prime ministers by following this advice.
Happy birthday, Sister Bellotti, and may you enjoy many more!