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Embracing the Power of Forgiveness: The Inspirational Life of Saint Maria Goretti
Welcome and I’m glad you’re reading this. It’s been a little while since I last posted but am glad to be back with the inspiring story of one of my favorite saints. Today, we are going to journey through the life of Saint Maria Goretti, a beacon of purity and forgiveness whose story continues to inspire Catholics around the world.
Who Was Saint Maria Goretti?
Born into a humble Italian family on October 16, 1890, Maria Goretti’s life was marked by deep faith despite her young age and modest circumstances. Her commitment to God and her extraordinary act of forgiveness leave us with invaluable lessons in our spiritual journey.
The Fateful Day
On July 5, 1902, at just eleven years old, Maria faced a harrowing ordeal. A neighbor, Alessandro Serenelli, attempted to assault her. True to her faith and dedication to purity, she resisted his advances bravely. In an unfortunate turn of events, Alessandro stabbed Maria multiple times when she refused him.
But even in her final moments on earth, Maria exemplified Christ’s teachings. As she lay dying from her injuries in the hospital the following day — July 6 — she forgave Alessandro wholeheartedly. Her last words were an embodiment of…
