Saint Maria Goretti

Maria Goretti was born on October 16, 1890, in Corinaldo, Italy, to a humble farming family. The family moved to Nettuno, near Rome, where Maria grew up in deep faith.

At age 11 she defended her purity against Alessandro Serenelli, who mortally wounded her on July 5, 1902. Before dying she forgave her attacker and said she wished to see him in heaven.

She died the next day after receiving the sacraments. Her witness of martyrdom and forgiveness moved Italy and the world.

Alessandro converted in prison, attended her beatification in 1947, and lived as a penitent until death.

Maria was beatified in 1947 and canonized in 1950 by Pius XII. Her liturgical feast is July 6. She is invoked for youth, purity, and forgiveness.