Saint Maria Goretti | 6 July

Saint Maria Goretti (October 16, 1890 – July 6, 1902) was an Italian virgin and martyr of the Catholic Church. She is considered a model of purity and chastity and is venerated as a saint.

Maria Goretti was born into a poor farming family in Corinaldo, Italy. After her father's death, she and her family moved to a nearby village, where they lived in a small agricultural community. At the age of 11, Maria was known for her piety, hard work, and dedication to her family.

In 1902, a young man named Alessandro Serenelli, who was Maria's neighbor and a few years older than her, made unwelcome advances towards her. Despite Maria's strong resistance and refusal to submit to his immoral intentions, Alessandro became consumed by rage and, in a fit of anger, stabbed Maria multiple times.

Maria was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries the next day. Before her death, she forgave Alessandro and expressed her desire for him to be with her in heaven. This act of forgiveness and her steadfast commitment to purity made a profound impact on Alessandro's life.

During his imprisonment, Alessandro experienced a powerful conversion and deeply repented of his actions. After his release, he sought out Maria's mother to beg for forgiveness, which she graciously granted. Alessandro eventually became a lay brother in a Franciscan monastery.

The story of Maria Goretti and her forgiveness of her attacker spread throughout Italy and beyond. She was recognized as a martyr for her unwavering commitment to purity and her willingness to forgive her assailant. Pope Pius XII beatified her in 1947 and canonized her as a saint in 1950, making her the youngest canonized saint in the history of the Catholic Church.

Saint Maria Goretti is often invoked as a patroness of purity, chastity, and victims of sexual assault. Her life and witness continue to inspire countless individuals, particularly young people, to embrace the virtues of purity, forgiveness, and holiness.