Saint Maria Goretti

Saint Maria Goretti - Feast: July 6th (Optional Memorial)
Born: 1890 -- Died: 1902 -- Canonized: 1950

The story of this amazing saint's death always makes me feel pure, cold fear . . . . as a parent. I know that is probably wrong but it is my first (very honest) response.

St. Maria Goretti is the first saint in history whose mother was present at her canonization. Believe or not so was Alexander Serenelli, her killer.

When St. Maria was 10-12 years old her father died and Alexander said he would kill her if Maria did not give into his seductions. She refused and he stabbed her 14 times. St. Maria on her death bed forgave Alexander and appeared to him in a dream 8 years after her death and gave him a bouquet of flowers.

He converted to Catholicism and was later pardon by the wishes of St. Maria's mother. He was released from prison after 26 years. He became a Franciscan tertiary before he died.

St. Maria is the Patron Saint of Teenage Girls and Youth.

Prayer to Saint 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 (here insert intention), and may we one day enjoy with thee the imperishable glory of Heaven.

Amen.

Source: www.carr.org
Graphics source: Lives of the Saints
More information @: Catholic Fire
Deacon Tony's Place
Lives of the Saints