Saint Maria Goretti
One of the biggest compliments I have ever heard came from a woman attending a retreat I was leading. She said that I dispersed a bright light every time I spoke about the Lord, which was such a profound and moving observation. Wow! That indeed was priceless, and from that day forward, it became an important part of my morning prayer. I now begin each day with the words, “Lord, grant me the grace to radiate my love for you in all I say and do today.” There is one saint who immediately comes to mind, a remarkable woman who stood up boldly and fearlessly for her faith. She radiated a profound and deep love for the Lord and the Eucharist, always drawing others closer through her example. Her life demonstrated an unwavering conviction to live a chaste life and embody the beauty of forgiveness in every aspect of her short journey.
Known as the “The Little Saint of Great Mercy,” Maria Goretti was a young Italian girl who came from a humble and poor farming family. After the early death of her father, her family faced many challenges and had to live with another family, the Serenellis, in order to make ends meet. Maria was deeply in love with Christ and eagerly looked forward to receiving her First Communion. On June 16, 1901 at the age of ten she received her First Communion. Her profound devotion to her faith inspired her daily life, as she remained committed to living with purity and holiness in every action she took. Sadly, just one year later, she was violently attacked by the Serenelli family's son, Alessandro, who attempted to sexually assault her. Maria fiercely resisted his advances, "No! It is a sin! God does not want it!". In a moment of rage and frustration, Alessandro stabbed her multiple times, leaving her gravely wounded.
Following her beloved closely, and clinging desperately for life, she courageously sought out her attacker. She wished deeply for him to join her in heaven and chose to forgive him completely. What a powerful and moving testament to her unwavering faith and profound charity. Maria left a wonderful legacy. Six years later, Alessandro, the man who had attacked Maria, dreamed of her while he was in prison, an experience that deeply moved him and led to his sincere repentance. After his release, he sought and found peace by reconciling with Maria's mother. Eventually, he chose a new path by joining a Capuchin monastery as a lay brother, dedicating his life to faith and service. Maria Goretti's life remains a powerful example of forgiveness and the transformative power of faith. She exemplified true faith in action through her courage and compassion.
Prayer to St. Maria Goretti
Oh Saint Maria Goretti who, strengthened by God’s Grace, did not hesitate even at the age of twelve to shed your blood and sacrifice life itself to defend your virginal purity, look graciously on the unhappy human race which has strayed far from the path of eternal salvation.
Teach us all, and especially youth, with what courage and promptitude we should flee for the love of Jesus anything that could offend Him or stain our souls with sin.
Obtain for us from our Lord victory in temptation, comfort in the sorrows of life, and the grace which we earnestly beg of thee (pause, insert special intention here), and may we one day enjoy with thee the imperishable glory of Heaven. Amen.
Our Father ... Hail Mary ... Glory be ... St. Maria Goretti, pray for us!
Keep at it!
Keep praying.
Love the Lord.
Peace and Grace.
