
St. Dulce of the Poor
Dulce of the Poor was a Brazilian religious sister whose care for people in need transformed lives in Salvador, Bahia.
- Life
- 1914–1992
- Canonised
- 2019
Life and vocation
Born Maria Rita Lopes Pontes, she entered religious life in 1933. She organised support for workers and families and found shelter for sick people who had nowhere to go.
Faith in action
Her initiatives grew into lasting social and healthcare services. Canonised in 2019, she is remembered for bringing prayer and practical care together and for respecting the dignity of people whom society had overlooked.
For readers in England
This English-language edition serves readers in the United Kingdom; its regional selection and calendar specifically follow England. John Henry Newman and Thomas More provide starting points for exploring that history.
This biography is not a liturgical reading. For the observances in your area, consult the local calendar and your diocese.
Explore the local liturgical calendar →Daily Catholic Quotes →Sources and further reading
Sources checked:
Image credit
Unknown author · Wikimedia Commons · Public domain. Images resized for this page; social previews are cropped and include text.
Related saints

St. Teresa of Calcutta
Teresa of Calcutta founded the Missionaries of Charity to serve people facing extreme poverty and abandonment.
Read biography
St. José de Anchieta
José de Anchieta was a Jesuit missionary, teacher and writer associated with the early history of Brazil.
Read biography
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
A mother, teacher and religious founder, Elizabeth Ann Seton helped establish Catholic education in the United States.
Read biographyCarry a little inspiration into your day
Read Bible verses and words from the saints in Catholic Daily.