Saint19th–20th century · Feast January 23

St Marianne Cope

Also known as Barbara Koob, Mother Marianne Cope, Marianne of Molokai

Religious sister

Healthcare leader

Mother of Molokai

A German-born American Franciscan sister and hospital leader who established professional, compassionate care in Hawaii and Kalaupapa.

A note on content. This profile is a prototype draft. Devotional traditions, historical facts and uncertain traditions will be clearly identified once entries are reviewed. We do not publish invented quotations.

The story of their life

A German-born American Franciscan sister and hospital leader who established professional, compassionate care in Hawaii and Kalaupapa. Nursing was professionalising while patients with infectious disease faced fear, forced isolation and rejection.

Historical context

Nursing was professionalising while patients with infectious disease faced fear, forced isolation and rejection.

Defining moments

Supporting her immigrant family
Entering religious life
Leading hospitals in New York
Accepting the Hawaiian mission
Serving at Kalaupapa

Faith and spirituality

Competent care, calm courage, healthcare leadership and safe practice.

Why this saint matters today

An excellent companion for nurses, hospital managers and women leading during epidemics.

Patronage and intercession

People turn to St Marianne Cope in matters of:

Nurses

Hospital administrators

People with Hansen’s disease

Hawaii

A prayer

God of grace, through the intercession of St Marianne Cope, guide us in truth, courage and love. Amen.

Timeline

Sources and further reading

https://www.vaticannews.va/en/saints.html
https://www.liturgyoffice.org.uk/Calendar/

Source-quality status: unverified prototype