During her 42 years in Schio, Bakhita was employed as the cook, sacristan, and portress (doorkeeper) and was in frequent contact with the local community. Her gentleness, calming voice, and the ever-present smile became well known and Vicenzans still refer to her as "Sor Moretta" ("little brown sister") or "Madre Moretta" ("black mother"). Her special charisma and reputation for sanctity were noticed by her order; the first publication of her story ("Storia Meravigliosa" by Ida Zanolini) in 1931, made her famous throughout Italy. During the Second World War (1939–1945) she shared the fears and hopes of the townspeople, who considered her a saint and felt protected by her mere presence. Bombs did not spare Schio, but the war passed without a single casualty.