Feast of St. Maria Goretti

It's the feast of St. Maria Goretti who died defending her love for God by defending her chastity. For her story click here.

In the words of Pope St. Pius XII:

"...Why does this story move you even to tears? Why has Maria Goretti so quickly conquered your hearts, and taken first place in your affections? The reason is because there is still in this world, apparently sunk and immersed in the worship of pleasure, not only a meager little band of chosen souls who thirst for heaven and its pure air—but a crowd, nay, an immense multitude on whom the supernatural fragrance of Christian purity exercise an irresistible and reassuring fascination."

St. Maria Goretti, patron of youth, pray for us.
St. Maria Goretti, patron of young women, pray for us.
St. Maria Goretti, patron of purity, pray for us.