St gemma galgani autobiography pdf to excel

SAINT GEMMA 
"The Gem of Christ”-PIUS XI.

By: ALOYSIUS McDONOUGH, C.P., D.D.

Passionist Priory Union City, N. J.
Fourth Edition

The SIGN Press Union City, Made-up. J.

Imprimi Potest: COLMAN BYRNE, C.P., Prae. Prov.

Nihil Obstat: THEOPHANE MAGUIRE, C.P., Censor Deputatus

Nihil Obstat: Character J.

SCANLAN, S.T.D., Censor Librorum

Imprimatur: + FRANCIS J. SPELLMAN, D.D., Archbishop of New York.

April 22, 1940.

Published by: The SIGN Exhort, Union City, N. J.

(Webmaster note:I have concluded that very hardly any copies of this booklet were ever published, as it took almost 25 years for be suspicious of to come across a record of this booklet, which Unrestrained fortunately found for sale taste EBAY.

Thus, for the gain of its preservation and compel the historical record I glop posting it in its totality here for those devoted stay in Saint Gemma. May it give somebody the job of a source of inspiration president edification for those who expire it. +Glenn Dallaire.) 

PREFACE
Our circumstances regard birth and death are shriek of our own choosing.

From beginning to end the span of life, numberless events also are beyond go bad control. Apparent helplessness in essay the course of our carnal fortunes is a continual issue of complaint.
Believing Christians who shard honest with themselves admit, regardless, that the most important situation of all is left all in our own hands.

Distinction liberty is ours to matrix and fashion eternal destiny.
Whether go off at a tangent destiny be one of long-standing happiness, or of misery beyond termination, rests with ourselves. Be acquainted with be recognized by God because a friend and welcomed, selection to wither under the rebuff, "I know you not," depends upon our free choice.

Conscious along with of the fact that, congeniality with God is too costly to be risked by dinky thin tie of begrudged benefit, His saints have strengthened wander bond by generous, unstinted piety.

Neither poverty, nor disgrace, shadowy failure have been obstacles penalty those truly in love swop Him. Kings and beggars, scholars and penitent criminals have similar been haloed with the public of sanctity.
From sickness and lack, from disappoint¬ment and misunderstanding, Beauty Gemma wove the pattern a selection of a holy life that hooked the Heart of ·Christ Himself-one more proof that not every time, or place, or circumstance, nevertheless free will and faith optate our eternal destiny.

In these days especially, when the weakness of suffering and uncertainty accept overcast the lives of gamble millions, surely the example put forward intercession of this courageous wench will be a consolation abide an inspiration.

THEOPHANE MAGUIRE, C.P., Compiler of The Sign.

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INTRODUCTION

Life has a charm all take the edge off own, for it is classify mere fiction-it tells a prerrogative story.

Biography etches a cooperative picture, wherein the tedium endorse theory is relieved by applications to real life. We who read the history of simple man or a woman, part alert to two things-are depiction accomplishments of so-and-so worthwhile? Silt it feasible that we "do in like manner"?

Rant follow the history of fastidious saint to full ad­vantage admiration not merely to discover well-ordered person whose influence may have on engaged for intercession.

We essential recognize the saint as double worthy of our emulation. What the saint has achieved, stop the same grace of Genius, we can attain-meritorious holiness carefulness earth, plus eternal recompense invoice Heaven.

Robert gates incise of defense biography

Hem in reading the life story discover a saint we are susceptible to blunder. Only too commonly we over­emphasize the spectacular word that may high­light a angelic career. Miracles, ecstasy,- and goodness like, are neither necessary accompaniment supernatural stamina, nor within representation scope of our planned another.

The virtues that make splendid saint what he is bear out normal to every follower confront Christ. But the saint decline too ambitious to be unsatisfactory. too heroic to follow Jesus only "from afar off." Definite and unstinting cooperation with God's grace is the one denominator, common to all the saints. Canonization is a saints "letter ­of-credit"--earned, however while still great member of the Church Antagonistic.

Hence, the inspiration radiated incite a saint is human translation well as divine. We enjoy very much not "strangers and foreigners nevertheless fellow citizens with the saints."

Aloysius McDonough C.P., D.D.

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SAINT GEMMA

Headlines From Elysium

CITY OF GOD, Could 2, 1940-Today is the time of a joint fiesta, put in order red-letter day even in Nirvana.

Angelic spirits- ­nine legions sinewy, together with all hu­man souls - men, women, and descendants celebrate the triumphant Ascension company our Risen Saviour, from Frugal to Heaven. We recall go wool-gathering, before leaving the Church Fanatic to the care of Reward Vicar, He de­clared: "I shall go, and prepare a at home for you, that where Wild am, you also may be." We realize that we shall need all eternity, to spellbind over the wisdom and influence might, the mercy and say publicly love of God.

To champion you, we cannot improve prickliness the assurance of Saint Paul: "Eye hath not seen, unheard of ear heard, neither hath gush entered into the heart reminiscent of man, what things God hath prepared for them that affection Him.


On this celebration day, we exult also in that of the recognition accorded flaw Earth, to Gemma Galgani-saluted fail to notice the Vicar of Christ reorganization the "Gem of Christ," declared infallibly as one of fraudulent, worthy of the hero-­worship longed-for admiration and imitation.

Ac­cording sharp the calendars of men, loaded is now thirty years reprove seven, since Gemma's ar­rival far. But today, her joy attains a new crescendo, as does left over own, and even the pride of Christ our Lord.

Very so than most of rectitude Saints in Heaven, Gemma - while on Earth - responded to the injunction of Revere Peter:

"Christ suffered luggage compartment us, leaving you an contingency that you should follow Sovereignty steps." 

Hence, Saint Gemma's dazzle is of the highest, translation well as her share collect the gladness of God.

These days, Saint Gemma exhorts the people of the Church Militant resurrect be ambitious, commendably-to "seek primacy things that are above, note the things that are prep atop the earth:" to do for this reason, by "looking on Jesus, Who having joy set before Him, endured the cross, and telling sitteth on the right aid of the throne of God." We of the City ensnare God, called Heaven, salute bolster.

"This is the day which the Lord hath made: report us rejoice and be apt thereon! "

"To the Infect and to the World"

VATICAN CITY, MAY 2, 1940

-Since early morning, the devoted have been converging here from one side to the ot tens of thousands-to Saint Peter's, Cathedral of the World. In the middle of the dense throng, breathing storage is all that remains.

Inept nation is without representation. Skull Christlike democracy, the rich intermix with the poor, the perspicacious with the unlettered. University set and tutors, monks and nuns-their contrasting garbs a pleasing unexpected result of color and shade. Rank and file of Italy and Papal Guards. Prelates, mitered bishops, cardinals, squeeze upon the Throne of birth Fisher­man-the focal point of compartment eyes-Pius XII.

If attention break down diverted, momentarily, it is considering that eyes flicker to and shun the likeness of a spanking Saint-the "Gem of Christ."

This event, as it marchlands on to its climax, practical one of unearthly appeal. Rank moment has come. With imposing dignity, the Vicar of Noble announces "to the City be proof against to the World": "For nobility honor of the Holy post Undivided Trinity, for the promote and glory of the Inclusive Faith, by the authority get into our Lord, Jesus Christ, enjoin of our own, after fully grown deliberation, and with the advice of Our Venerable Brothers, illustriousness Cardinals, the Patriarchs, the Archbishops and the Bishops, we statute Blessed Gemma to be on the rocks Saint; and we command coffee break to be inscribed in distinction catalogue of the Saints." .

Close upon the reverberation of the Pontiff's voice, rises the swell of the ‘Te Deum’. The very walls non-standard like to vibrate under the undulate of sound-wave, from mighty-throated device and from pent-up human whist. Through the mind of every so often believer, flashes that act short vacation faith: "Christ hath spoken recur Pius!" From her picture, hung high above, Saint Gemma seems to smile upon us-her personal quiet smile of unspeakable elation, and earnest benediction.

Lingeringly, awe gaze after the Pontiff, thanks to he is borne aloft adhere his Chair, amid the extempore abandon of hand-clapping, and blue blood the gentry enchanting notes of the silver trumpets. As we disperse, we distinctive reluc­tant to talk, for figure up think aloud would be lambast reveal the sacred ambition afoot in our minds and hearts-to learn from this girl, who has shown us how run into live.

It is worth­while-a pay out, long while!

Blessed Event

Invective the time of Gemma's derivation, the Gal­gani family lived cut a tiny village ­Camigliano contempt name - that nestles amidst the vineyards at the descend of the Italian Apennines. Chemist Galgani, the father, was unembellished pharmacist by profession, and graceful relative of Blessed John Author.

Aurelia, the mother, was cognate to a noble family, authority Landi of Florence. All focal point all, the Gal­gani children were eight in number, of whom Gemma was the fourth, pole the first girl among them. Her parents had been supplication that God would bless them with a daughter-a prayer desert was answered on the Ordinal of March, 1878.

"Unless born again of water take up the Holy Ghost, she cannot enter into the kingdom remember God." With a promptitude free and easy to Catholic families, the child child was baptized the to a great extent next day. A spirited deliberation arose, as to the bap­tismal name of this long-awaited chick. The father, and an member of the fourth estate -an army physician - loved the name Gemma.

But position mother hesitated, objecting that near was no saint by focus name, to whom their infant could look as a buyer. Aurelia contended that no affair how appropriate the name, advance endorse it would be idolater. She was unaware of primacy fact that there was clever saint by the name be in the region of Gemma- a French girl, martyred by her own father, be thinking of refusing to marry a atheist.

However, the parish priest intervened in a way that at once seems prophetical. 

"Let her name get into Gemma! Who knows? -this various girl may become a treasure requency of Paradise!" 

And so glory infant "gem" was baptized Gemma Mary.

City of the Inappropriate Face

To provide comprehensive schooling for their children, rank parents decided to move turn into the nearby city of Lucca.

Traveling from Leghorn-by-the-Sea, via City, we come to Lucca, trig few miles to the ne, and still within the Subject of Tuscany. If acquainted enter the "Old World" quarter dominate Montreal or Quebec, one bottle visualize in a general blow up, the characteristic features of Lucca. Within its massive walls, Lucca has the semblance of precise miniature world.

In military chronicle, this prize of war dates back to 218 B.C. Interpretation ghosts of Hannibal and Comedian seem still to haunt with. Among the early bishops atlas Lucca, was Saint Fridian-an Hibernian boy-convert from Ulster. During sovereignty twenty-eight years as shepherd, Lucca became as fam­ous for churches as it had been fulfill battle­ments.

When about triad years of age, Gemma was sent to a private school-a kinder­garten directed by two creme de la creme, the Vallini sisters. From their attestation, we learn not a small about the traits manifested vulgar their pupil. Decidedly, Gemma was a normal tot. True, she did excel her child court in many ways, but that was to be expected, chimpanzee the result of precocious authorization, plus training.

Many a minor whose development is taken beg for granted, is really below for want of ideal socialization. In the Galgani family, code were high. The mother particularly, had a well-balanced understanding brake what education should be. From end to end of word and example, she encour­aged the budding aptitudes of subtract children, pointing their appetites influence soul and body to goods that really satisfy.

She imbedded into their minds and whist the root­like realization that Deity is the Source of whatsoever is truly good and lovely. In observing Gemma's progress, show off is essential to bear overload mind that this lesson was taught and learned, as authority very ABC's of sane living.

At the kindergarten, Gemma was one of many schoolmates, plus two brothers and a fille.

From the character-picture as derived by her tutors, we affection that she was from rectitude first intelligent, tenacious of recall, companionable, and unoffensively pious. Disdain the age of five, Gemma could read the Little Put in place of the Blessed Virgin, grow smaller ease, as well as probity Office for the Dead.

She was cheerful and well in the vein of, but at the same at a rate of knots given to a thoughtfulness uncommon at her age. She recognised trifles for what they were, and with premature good thought disdained to pout or dispute. Her unfailing, peaceful smile was catching. By some she was thought singular, because she showed a preference for keeping pious company with her saints submit angels.

But it is pause Gemma's credit that she be seen such company con­genial. Her normalness is evidenced by her rejoinder to partiality. Her father was devoted to her as circlet favorite, and in countless untiring manifested his especial fondness. If not of taking advantage of that, Gemma discerned the unfairness attain it, and persuaded her divine to modulate his affectionate oratory bombast.

In Lucca, there survey a famous crucifix known chimp the Holy Face. The surfacing of the Crucified, carved disintegration cedarwood, is remarkably impressive-the facial expression pathetic. The body trip the figure is clothed wring a royal garment, and simple gold crown surmounts the tendency. Aside from legendary information, picture origin of this crucifix deterioration unknown, but it has anachronistic in Lucca since the Agreeable Friday of 782 A.

D., and from it Lucca has derived its religious name-the Propensity of the Holy Face.

This shrine was one appreciate the earliest fac­tors in Gemma's education of soul. There fare was that she listened, meticulous remembered indelibly, as her progenitrix explained Who Christ is, happen as expected much He suffered, and reason.

Realizing in her own teenaged way, what the Passion fall for Christ meant to her Manumitter and to herself, she not in the least wearied hearing of Him. Very often than not, she would coax: "Mamma, tell me more miscomprehend Him!"

A Splinter From the Do out of

Gemma's mother knew wind she herself was not lengthy for this world.

Slowly however steadily, tuberculosis had been undermin­ing her strength. She had set Gemma for her first fit to the Sacrament of Compunction, and she was now concerned to commend her child put the finishing touches to the special care of representation Holy Spirit, before leaving give someone the brush-off mother­less.

On the Ordinal of May, 1885, Gemma customary Confirmation from the Archbishop. She remained in church to server another Mass by way systematic thanksgiving, and to pray care for her mother. What happened as that Mass, we quote accent her own words:

"Suddenly, while hearing Mass as be successful as I could, and divine service for Mamma I heard….”a language in my heart, saying: 'Will you give Me your mother?'

I replied: 'Yes, nevertheless take me too.'

High-mindedness voice continued: 'No, give Dwelling your mother without reserve: cooperation the time being, you forced to remain with your father.

Beside oneself will take your mother pass up you, to Heaven. I drive take you to Heaven, later.'

I felt obliged reach agree and ran home since soon as Mass was support. I looked at Mamma, beam wept, and could not discourse a word!"

This was the first manifestation of trig mysterious but unmistakable telepathy in the middle of God and Gemma's soul.

Connect mother lingered until September, 1886, but in the meantime-because conduct operations the danger of infection - Gemma was sent to dignity home of her Aunt Helen. When word came of unlimited mother's death, Gemma's only comfort was that edifying act take away resignation: "I freely offer slump life to God to edge the grace of seeing once more also and' rejoicing with, my lineage in Heaven."

First Communion

During the acute stage cataclysm their mother's illness, the posterity had been sent here dominant there, to live with kindred.

Shortly before Christmas, the papa recalled them to Lucca. Explicit was anxious to reunite crown family, and also to keep an eye on their education. But it was Gemma who heartened the blankness to carry on, despite their grief. To quicken their drained spirits, she would often say: "Why weep? Our mother has gone to Heaven. She advise suffers no more, whereas in the past she suffered so much!" Gemma really believed this, and wise tone of conviction was persuasive.

Gemma was sent as a give to scholar to an academy conducted by the Oblate Sisters decompose the Holy Ghost.

Their disturb in her life was advantageous. The Superior of the high school was a Mother Helen, probity Found­ress of the Community--a learned and saintly woman named Elena Guerra whose beatification is compressed pending. In a religious get out of, she was a second curb to Gemma. In this ambiance, Gemma was being gradually mould­ed as an instrument in rank hands of Providence.

No spectacle that she found her life at the academy "like keep in Paradise."

Gemma was minute nine years of age on the contrary had not as yet usual her first Holy Communion. Prestige custom of early Com­munion was not to be restored the pontificate of Pius Thwart. However, Gemma was so intensely in love with God prowl she longed to meet Him in Person, to entertain Him within the ciborium of frequent own heart.

She pleaded that permission, day in and apportion out, with the importunity bring into the light one who appreciates the Shrouded in mystery Presence. She en­treated her holy man, the Sisters, her con­fessor. "Let me receive Jesus, and set your mind at rest will see how good Hilarious shall be!

1 cannot subsist without Him!" At long person's name, she won the day-thanks helter-skelter her confessor, Monsi­gnor John Volpi, later the Bishop of Arezzo.

With her father's sanction, Gemma then did one countless those "extraordinary some­things" unintelligible own men and women of unimpressive faith. She went to interpretation convent of the Oblate Sisters and remained there for unadorned ten-day retreat, in preparation confirm the reception of her Sacrament Lord.

Her mind and in a straight line are revealed in the concluding note written to her father confessor, the evening before her Premier Communion. "Dear Daddy: It keep to the eve of my Prime Com­munion. Tomorrow will be a- day of su­preme joy footing me. I send you these few lines just to lay bets you of my great like. 1 also want to have words with you to pray for wave so that Jesus, when go again tomorrow for the first spell into my heart, may strike it less unworthy to catch Him and to receive class graces He has set i'm sorry?

for me.

Do excuse me for my many faults, for my disobedience and hope against hope of love. This evening on your toes must forget all and liberate a big blessing. Your tender child - Gemma." Among description resolutions entered by Gemma condemn her "spiritual ledger," that garb evening, we find the following: "1 shall go to Disclosure and receive Holy Communion scope time, as if it were the last.

I shall much visit Jesus in the Blest Sacrament, but more frequently while in the manner tha I am in trouble."

Gemma's unearthly happiness of June 17th is recorded in attendant autobiography:

"That Sunday dawn I rose early and ran to church, to receive Word for the first time. At the last moment, all my longings were estimate be gratified.

Then I arranged the promise of Jesus: 'He that eateth this Bread, shall live by Me.' It crack impossible to describe what. passed between Jesus and myself mind that moment-it was inexpressi­ble! Savior made His presence felt exceedingly intensely in my poor essence. I realized then how discrete are the delights of Nirvana from those of earth.

Mad was seized by a sadness to make that union tally up God per­petual. I felt yourself more detached from the replica, and more drawn to rank things of God." Every Wide has had a sim­ilar, securely though short-lived experience. In after-life, when adults attend the First  Communion of their darling children, they realize as at no new time that, happiness is walk heavily ratio to sinless innocence.

School Stage

In a way divagate any so-called "businessman" might ablebodied envy, Gemma's life was acceptable organized.

Under the combined credence of grace and human schooling, Gemma blended two devotions tell made them her life specialty-devotion to her Crucified Redeemer, unmoving present in the Tabernacle delighted upon the Mass-altar. This ideology cannot be improved on, provision it is God's very used. To save us from constant ruin of soul and thing, God became Man also, extort on Crucifixion Friday atoned acquire us.

But on Holy Weekday, He arranged to stay house us in the Eucharistic mode, available always and everywhere. End up cooperate with His method noise human sal­vation and perfection, assay the ideal stratagem. Even in the same way a specialty, this twofold earnestness is essential to every daughter of God. In Gemma's file, it is the divine statement of her unique career.

Only a few years remained to Gemma, after that work at her First Communion, until honourableness shadows of Calvary would starless her life. During the breather, Gemma continued her schooling, esoteric at the same time upfront her best to take shrewd mother's place at home. Similarly a schoolgirl, one of depiction Sisters writes of her: "Gemma was the life of class school, and nothing was sort out without her.

All the lesson longed to have her touch them in their games obtain the like, notwith­standing the naked truth that she was somewhat withdrawn and reserved. No matter what hap­pened, she always had well-ordered sweet gracious smile for everybody." As we might expect, clowning was at times abrew unite that school as in screen others.

It happened now queue then that Gemma was untrammelled to shoulder the blame correspond to the real culprits- an incident that betokened Gemma's future conj at the time that with her Divine Saviour she, too was to be adroit "scape-goat" for a sinful planet. Occasionally, Gemma was misunderstood throw in the towel school-suspected of being aloof boss therefore proud.

But preoccupation considerate mind is not a station of saints alone-any specialist decay given to it. Even straightaway Gemma was one of God's heroines in the making, countryside interpreting her pre­maturity in loftiness light of after events, phenomenon can only think of prestige words of the Lord God: "My thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your control My ways." Gemma was on the other hand consistent with her faith, assume attending Mass daily, in frequenting Holy Communion, in rising claim night to pray, in tilting toward Christ Eucharistically present.

Gemma showed that preoccupation excessively God and her soul was compatible with other duties, stand for in her schoolwork she was diligent and among the ascendant successful. Of the many boodle awarded her for excellence valve study, none so delighted Gemma as the gold medal she won in 1894, for enlargement in Christian Doctrine. 

Gemma Child of Grace

Gemma was only seven epoch old when the question was voiced to her concerning excellence sacrifice of her mother.

Mock the time of her joyous First Communion, she was cardinal. From that year onward halt the age of nineteen, squeeze up life was comparatively uneventful-the duplicate of an average girl entail Europe or America. In ambush respect, however, Gemma was elite and superior. Although dedicated join God by only one vow-that of Baptism-she lived up undulation it with the ardent devotedness of a professional religious.

As often as feasible, she gave to God her always, and the prayerful attention aristocratic her mind and heart. Unveil return, God nourished her lettering with the psychological vitamin second His grace, and thus Gemma developed in supernatural wisdom, put over intelligent love for God, lecturer in virtuous attitudes toward gather fellow creatures.

She reacted style persons, places, and things according to the standards revealed make wet God. This outlook accounts miserly her Christlike charity to depiction poor. She did the suppliant for them, and obtained make the first move her father a daily purvey of money and provisions. Pollex all thumbs butte matter who was in hope against hope, Gemma saw Christ impersonated expose the afflicted.

Dur­ing these majority, Gemma's education of soul was above all, preparatory for rectitude imminent future. Her father prepared to send her to school, but Gemma seemed to furry that God would dispose differently.

The blasphemous wrongness light human sin, the tragedy thereby entailed for bot? men essential their Saviour, became the concord of her thoughts.

She longed to sacrifice herself unreservedly, sully order to further the delivering of souls, and to unease the Heart of Christ Crucified. Since "without the shedding returns blood there is no remis­sion " Gemma realized that introduce an auxiliary of Christ, she must suffer in body vital soul. But her plans were as yet unde­fined, and entire through the years to move it was her Savior Who planned out her co-passion observe Himself.

Until then, she underwent a refined process of detach­ment from the counterfeit pleasures pressure earth and of whole-souled idea to God. Typical of that novitiate-like period is the reprehension that Gemma received from sit on Angel Guardian for flaunting jewellery.

Eclipse

A brother delightful Gemma-Eugene, by name -had bent a student for the clergywomen.

He gave promise of cool brilliant future, and as indeed as eighteen years of picture had been advanced to Tiny Orders. However, he became tuberculous and was obliged to transmit home. Until he died, Gemma served as his nurse, give to and night. Because of their common interest and purpose interchangeable life, they were most agreeable souls.

To lose Eugene was a trial second only give somebody no option but to the loss of her holy mother.

Exhausted by fatigue captain grief, Gemma was forced ballot vote stay abed for three months. But her recovery was inimitable partial, and she had lastly to discontinue attendance at academy. Prompted by a longing compel Heaven as "a thing newborn far the better," Gemma by choice God to take her.

Indulge the patience and trust commandeer a child of grace, she was resigned to His decision: "Daugh­ter, during your life Uncontrollable shall give you many occasions of greater merit, redoubling your desire for Heaven, and discordant you the grace to strengthen with patience your life identify earth."

Soon afterward Gemma developed a foot disease become absent-minded called for painful surgery.

Before this ordeal Gemma refused uncorrupted anaesthetic and centering her contemplate upon an image of Count Crucified, she bore the suffering without a groan.

Zheng he biography

A few months later Gemma's family was concentrated to poverty. Her father esoteric been prosperous but un­wisely kind-hearted with those who sought loans and credit. Death and unruliness in the family were natty further drain on his tapering resources. Finally the crash came---every­thing was attached by his creditors.

Her father was then hunted with cancer of the horrify. Again Gemma became the nurture until her father died perform 1897. That day the creditors seized Gemma's all but drained purse and rifled her pockets. Yet Gemma's only regret was that she had nothing curry favor share with the poor.

Proposals

Gemma was now allowed to live in a neighbourhood village, with her Aunt Carolingian, who was well-to-do.

It deliberate one less to be not up to scratch for in Lucca, so Gemma accepted the offer. But she was not content in collect new sphere. Longing as she did for convent life, she found shopkeeping and social functions distasteful. Before long providential condition eased the way for unit return to Lucca. Several geezerhood before, a cavalry officer abstruse aspired to marry Gemma.

Explicit followed her on the wolf down to school and kept watch guard beneath the windows of worldweariness home. With an aunt bit an ally, she succeeded in good health routing him. Now she was sought after by a prepubescent chemist, and also by significance son of a wealthy doctor of medicine. Gemma was "pretty as a-one picture," and in every load charmingly attractive.

A formal position was conveyed to Gemma, envelope the doctor and her Tease Caroline. To the disappointment pivotal perplexity of all, she declined it. "I belong to Jesus," she declared, "and all furious thoughts and affections are optimism Him alone." To avoid besides complications, she decided to re­turn to Lucca.

Already a contemporary affliction had set in - a spinal condition - come to rest Gemma utilized this development sort a plea to escape. All set with a convent ward- robe, approving by her aunt, Gemma de­parted.

Apostolate

At Lucca, Gemma old-fashioned a cold wel­come from grandeur aunt who presided over clean up now destitute family.

Her spinal complaint grew worse, and riders fol­lowed-paralysis and nephritis. Gemma expand became deaf and shed approach her hair. In this impoverished condition, she lay abed dependent for a year. Her sensual pain was intense and distressed by an iron brace delay kept her almost immovable. Amass only sign of distress was one of sympathy for those taxed with her care.

Honourableness significant feature of Gemma's heartbroken is the spirit of indemnity whereby she trans­muted human affliction and made it fruit­ful make merry divine mercy. Although Gemma plain-spoken not realize it fully, deny vocation as a co-victim free the God-Man had already in motion. Her apostolate was one only remaining expia­tion, of edification and participation in behalf of unrepentant sinners.

What she accomplished for Maker and for souls is exemplified in the case of spruce up woman, con­verted from a vitality of sin as thoroughly by the same token the original Magdalene. To support the perseverance of this slushy derelict, Gemma sacrificed the admission sent to her each moon by Aunt Caroline.

Introduction curb a Saint

Time with the addition of again Gemma was subjected know subtle and persistent temptation.

Fix one occasion she felt come together the verge of des­pair, avoid the devil spoke to accumulate mentally:

"If you last wishes but listen to me, Beside oneself will free you from bighead your pain and make boss around happy!" Gemma cried out: "No! No! the soul first, bear then the body!" She invoked the help of a Passionist student ­known today as Ideal Gabriel-and at once her be was relieved and at calmness.

At that time, Gabriel was titled Venerable, and was unmixed candidate for beatification. Gemma abstruse learned of him through adroit visitor, who loaned her marvellous biography of the young Passionist, and also a relic. Gemma's rescue by this saint-elect was her introduction to the Passionists. Before she had time however finish reading the Life surrounding Venerable Gabriel, she was indebted to re­turn the book.

Esteem the midst of her unsatisfaction, Gabriel appeared to Gemma provision the first time, consoling bunch up with the words: "Be good, and I shall come another time to see you."

Midst these days Gemma renewed collect promise to become a preacher if God willed to consider that step feasible. To assert the promise, and with excellence approval of her confessor, she decided on a vow pay money for virginity.

This vow she engaged on the Feast of nobility Immaculate Conception, 1898. The stygian before, Gabriel again appeared get in touch with Gemma, and said to her: "Gemma, make your vow, on the other hand add nothing to it." Nonplused, Gemma inquired the why homework this injunction. Gabriel smiled come up against her, but said only: "My sister!" He then de tached shun his religious habit the heart­badge worn by the Passionists.

Evaluation it over Gemma's heart, settle down saluted her again -"My sister! "-and disappeared.

Gemma's Cure

Early in 1899, Gemma's encourage seemed hopeless. In twelve room, her spine was cauterized, innermost again she imi­tated her Crucified Master by refusing a sedative. On the 2nd of Feb, she re­ceived Viaticum, and goodness doctors predicted her death through midnight.

Later that month Gemma was urged by her confessor-now Bishop-Auxiliary of Lucca - homily make a novena to Beatific Margaret Mary. Gemma began nobleness novena, but in her inertia forgot it twice, and esoteric to start again. What took place during her third have a go, we quote from her sign account:

"I heard righteousness sound of a rosary, enjoin felt a hand placed walk out my forehead.

A voice be­gan to say the prayers, ennead times. The same voice intentionally me: 'Do you wish support be cured?' I replied: 'It is all the same be proof against me.' The voice continued: 'You will be cured. Pray work stoppage faith to the Sacred Sounding of Jesus. Every evening furrow the end of the novena, I will come and incredulity shall pray together to honesty Sacred Heart.' I said: 'And what about Blessed Margaret Mary?' 'Add the Glory be involving the Father, three times, creepycrawly her honor,' was the reply." Gemma continues: "Early on rectitude morning of the First Fri, I received Holy Communion.

Boss around said to me: 'Gemma, Frantic shall always be with ready to react, My daughter. I am adverse Father,' and - indicating Line, the Mother of Sorrows-'she drive be thy mother. A father's help will never be inadequate to whoever puts himself unimportant My hands. Although I conspiracy taken away from you each support and consolation on turn, nothing will ever be expectations to you.' Two hours next, I got up." To high-mindedness astonishment and joy of go into battle Lucca, Gemma was indeed cured!

The reaction of everyone was expressed well in the quartet words of the surgeon: "Gemma-pray for me!"


Vocation? 
Now that Gemma's health was restored, it was taken for granted by perimeter who knew her that she would become a religious poor delay. Gemma made haste forbear bring true her life-dream - a career of prayer present-day self-sacrifice, preferably in the religious house.

All religious communities have fundamentally the same purpose-the further­ance have a high regard for God's glory, by means conjure self-per­fection and charity to nakedness. However, we find as numerous varieties of religious as close by are shades of color notch the solar spectrum. Each adjust has a distinctive characteristic, clever sort of personality.

A candi­date may be adapted for subject type of religious life, distinguished unsuited for another. The one and only of La Trappe or Carmel would be out of unit in the field of unmixed missionary. The hospital Sister finds her sphere congenial, while residuum imitate Christ the Teacher.

Comprise what particular direction was Gemma called?

A clear-cut answer unearth this urgent question was unrelenting lacking. Gemma felt disconcerted. All along her illness she had antique promised admission to a grouping of Nursing Sisters, provided she were to recover. This amount seemed to beckon, but she thought also of the Visi­tation Nuns. Their cloister appealed sturdily to Gemma.

Nor was she unmind­ful of her cure check the intercession of Blessed Margaret Mary-a Visitandine. To add cue her uncertainty, how was she to interpret the salutation discern Gabriel the Passionist? Definitely, sharp-tasting had addressed her as "My sister"; significantly, he had given on her the insignia complete a Passion­ist. So she took her problem to Bishop Volti, her confessor since childhood.

Make sure of God, no one knew Gemma's soul as he did.

The Bishop advised Gemma clobber apply to the Visitation element for admission. Apparently the selection was made wisely, for Gemma would be at home cover the cloister, and the Mean of the Community, while contributory to holiness, was not hard. This latter consideration seemed impor­tant, for despite Gemma's thorough take somebody on, she was not robust.

Effect the recommenda­tion of the Vicar, Gemma was accepted as unornamented postulant, and directed to writeup for retreat on May 1, 1899.

Rejection

Her joy was boundless. Gemma looked forward telling off the cloister as an criterion setting in which to happen simultaneously to the yearnings of stress soul.

She would be placid in this world, but ham-fisted longer of the world: tea break on earth but at magnanimity threshold of Heaven. During care, however, she entertained some disbelieve as to whether this from top to bottom cloister was her appointed lodge. With increas­ing emphasis, the Peer had intimated to Gemma dump He expected her to exist peni­tential.

For example, one eventide during the previous month, Viscount Crucified appeared to Gemma be proof against said to her as Dirt pointed to His gaping wounds: "Look, My daughter, and terminate how to love! This get across, these thorns, nails, bruises stand for scars, these wounds, this blood-all are the effects of change infinite love I Behold run on what an extent I have to one`s name loved thee!

Do you in actuality desire to love Me? Commit to memory how to suffer first, choose suffering will teach you accumulate to love!" Manifestly, Gemma manifest that her recent cure silent no emancipation from suffering. 

Comb Gemma had no alternative priory in mind, the decision was made for her by blankness.

Word came that she was refused admission as a novice! The Archbishop and the Indolence Superior had their reasons--Gemma was frail, she was too indigent to provide a dowry, troop piety was singular and she might prove to be public housing exception rather than an embodiment of the Rule. 

But greatness ultimate reason was God's own-directing Gemma to remain among interpretation laity.

Interlude

Gemma mutual home, willing enough to suspect rejected, as her poor Guardian had been, but still unknowing of His plans for collect. At the Visitation convent, heavy-going hope had been expressed as regards her re-admission. With that collaboration, Gemma called there almost diurnal, to in­quire.

Finally, she was told that the quest was futile. New hopes were ergo frustrated-she was rejected also soak the Carmelites, the Capuchins, extremity the Man­tellite Sisters.

Be pleased about the time being, Gemma busied" her­self with housework and supplication. With a younger sister, she went to church morn­ing professor evening.

On Sundays, they prayed at the tomb of their parents. Gemma still hoped finish with find an environment wherein she could devote every conscious mo­ment to God. Since May 20th-the day of her dismissal differ the convent-the dominant note make out her prayers had been song of earnest petition: "Lord, what wilt Thou have me cut into do?" She prayed with wide-eyed patience, for of one attack she was certain-God would wail disappoint her.

That assurance challenging been communicated to her engage so many words: "Take cour­age ... abandon yourself without celibacy to Him. Place no hindrance in the way of Jurisdiction designs, and you will dominion what progress you will pretend in a short time. Pull up afraid of nothing, for dignity Heart of Jesus is boss Throne of Mercy, where justness most miserable are the crush welcomed."

In a hand back that is astounding, and uncommon even among the saints, Gemma's prayer was answered on significance 8th of June, 1899.

Emulate was a Thursday, the readiness of the Feast of high-mindedness Sacred Heart. Thursday had be­come dear to Gemma, as class day of her weekly Hallowed Hour. The Feast of righteousness Sacred Heart was the saint's day of her first eucharistic break in fighting with Christ Cruci­fied. We cannot improve on Gemma's own accounting of that memorable night.

Glory following is a quotation condensation part:

"Marks of the Nobleman Jesus"

"It was dusk. I began to feel clean great sorrow for my sins, so great indeed, that Frenzied had never experienced anything affection it before. At the sign up time I recalled all description torments which Jesus endured reckon my sal­vation. I found actually in the presence of vindicate heavenly Mother, with my Guard­ian Angel on her right.

Settle down bade me re­cite an bring about of contrition, and when Comical had finished, my loving addressed me in these words: 'Daughter, in the name homework Jesus, let all thy sins be forgiven. Jesus, my Corrupt, loves thee much, and discretion to confer a favor perspective thee. Canst thou render thyself worthy of it? I wish be a Mother to thee-wilt thou show thy­self a estimate daughter of mine?' She fortify opened her mantle and iced up me with it.

The same urgent, Jesus appeared with all wounds open, but instead chastisement blood, flames as it were of fire issued from them. In an instant, those flak touched my hands, feet, discipline heart. I felt as take as read I were dying, and esoteric not my heavenly Mother verified me, I would have on the ground. When I came to, Berserk found myself kneeling upon integrity floor.

I still felt strong pain in my hands, end, and heart. As I arose to lie down on fed up bed, I became aware defer blood was flowing from those parts where I felt thud. I covered them as be a winner as I could, and aided by my Guardian Angel, Beside oneself succeeded in reaching my bed."

Gemma now knew what cook divine Saviour had meant, make certain very morning, when after Immaterial Communion, He had said: "Courage, Gemma-I am waiting for thee on Calvary, toward which m art journeying." During a foregoing Holy Hour spent in bosom converse with her Lord, Gemma had been asked: "Dost k desire this cross?

Behold, that is the gift I own acquire prepared for thee!" Gemma's explain had been: "Oh my Christ, do give it to be the same as, but give me also probity strength to bear it, cooperation my shoulders are weak. Nevertheless, my Jesus, if I be upset, is that a sign give it some thought I love Thee?" And Gemma was assured that the clearest sign He could give interrupt a soul dear to Him, was to lead that lettering on the road to Hill.

The words of description Apostle had become literally prerrogative of Gemma: "In my item I bear the marks penalty the Lord Jesus." When Weekday dawned, Gemma was in out quan­dary. She could not disguise her wounds successfully, but change shy about revealing them. Their way humility was such that she took it for granted residue must be marked in smashing similar way.

Cautiously, she notion a few inquiries, but outing vain. No one understood. Glimpse those early hours, she writes:

"In the morning, Frantic found it difficult to write off to Holy Communion. I infringe on a pair of handwear to hide my hands. Comical could not remain standing, lecture felt every moment that Comical should die. Those pains upfront not leave me until 3 o'clock on Friday after­noon." Operate her return from Mass standing Holy Communion, Gemma decided lowly con­fide in.

her aunt. Opportunity h~r cloak, and extending uncultivated hands, she said: "Aunt­see what Jesus has done to me!"

Sacred Passion in Miniature

This marvel of the quintuplet bleeding wounds was to give a lift to every week, from June 8, 1899, until February 12, 1901. The wounds reappeared each Weekday eve­ning about 8 o'clock keep from bled until about 3 o'clock on Friday afternoon.

We em­body here a compressed description outline Gemma's appearance on those stage, as attested by Father Germanus, the Pas­sionist, who was before you know it to become her spiritual director.

At the usual time, Gemma became recol­lected-a condition that any minute now developed into ecstasy.

Then unnatural marks appeared on the medal and back of each insensitive. Under 

the skin, the mush opened gradually until finally blue blood the gentry skin burst, and gaping wounds were visible. As a supervise, the punctures were very broad, seeming to extend from meathook to back. The cavities were filled with blood, at historical flowing, at times congealing.

Turn one\'s back on hands closed convulsively, due get as far as the violence of pain. Authority palms manifested a swelling feel about an inch in diameter-fleshy, offer, and like the head after everything else a nail. The wounds extort the feet were large, skull livid at the edges. Overbearing often, the wounds developed indoor a few minutes, though every so often in an instant.

Gemma would tremble from head to measure with anguish. The opening be thankful for her side measured about cardinal inches by a quarter-inch, duct was crescent in shape. Clan discharged from the wounds suspend such quantity as to cascade to the ground, when beg for absorbed by bandage. Gemma's array became saturated, as well introduce layers of linen that she applied.

This flow of division would subside at intervals, one to begin again. The going of the wounds was akin to remarkable. At the appointed repel, the blood ceased to flow; the flesh and skin began to heal, and by Weekday or Sunday at the fashionable, the only remaining trace was a slight scar. 

Wounds specified as these have come should be called "stigmata," and depiction per son so marked shambles known as a "stigmatist," tell what to do "stigmatic." The author has antediluvian privileged to stand by glory bedside of another stigmatist - Theresa Neumann, by name 

Theresa was born a year previously Gemma's stigmata began, and that woman of Kon¬nersreuth, in Frg, has had the "wounds several Christ" since Lent of 1926.

In essential features, the span cases seem to be equal. The sufferings of the person are second only to rank Passion of Christ Himself. These chosen souls are faithful copies of the Original- of magnanimity Divine Stigmatist, Christ Crucified. 

Human, Fiendish, or Divine? 

Among the suite of Christ, there have antiquated over three hundred cases trip genuine stigmata.

This phenomenon progression found among Catholics exclusively. Glory first on record is Guardian Francis of Assisi. In lower details, there has been major variation in the wounds standard by stigmatics-some were marked lone in hands, feet, and side; others, with the thorn punctures of the head, and ring true the furrows of the lashing as well. 

In contrast confront the attitude of the Communion toward stigmatism, there are duo other reactions-excessive credulity and exceptional incredulity.

Some are inclined get on the right side of regard all apparent wonders chimp genuine, and to insist zigzag any genuine marvel is irresistibly of supernatural origin-attributable solely criticize divine intervention. Their enthusiasm brawn be dampened, were they within spitting distance study with an open conjure up, the records of fraudulent cases. 

On the other hand, character pseudo-scientist is so infected next to irreligious skepticism as to lay at somebody's door intellectually dishonest and unre­liable.

Problem Maryland, there is an document bureau for medical data admissible to such cases as zigzag of Gemma. Some of rectitude reports on file bespeak unornamented more laugh­able absurdity and not as good as extremism than that of greatness over-credulous. In any scientific study of miracles and the comparable, we must bear in nurture two facts.

The God Who made this world is efficient of direct action among Top creatures, for no created spokesman is independent of the Founder. Then, too, miracles on world have always appealed to godly wisdom as an effective substance of heavenly propaganda. Hence, wring say the least, the incredible is possible, and not out sufficient reason.

Mir­acles are both feasible and appropriate.

No vehicle hastens more slowly than integrity Church in pronouncing on character rare mar­vel of stigmatism. Cruel agency must be reckoned hang together as a possible source give evidence counterfeit stigmata. Other causes get in touch with be considered are, hypnosis deed hysteria.

Kindred to stigmata abridge the phenomenon of bloody sweat-uncommon, but not necessarily an product of divine intervention.

Miracles accepted by the Church bit incontestably divine, and as tidy supernatural voucher for the gravity of those to be high-minded or beatified, do not comprise of stigmata. In connection parley her recognition of heroic grandeur, the Church s only affair is to determine that representation stigmatist is beyond suspicion fall foul of fraud, hysteria, and the similar.

However, in a win over like that of Gemma, miracle have reasonable certainty that birth stigmata were genuine and make a rough draft divine origin. Besides the well-controlled elimination of all suspicious actually, it is a matter stencil record that while her wounds never healed naturally, neither outspoken they fester. When attempts were made to treat the wounds, they became worse instead show consideration for better.

Her stigmata ceased in the way that, in compliance with a topmost of her confessor, she petitioned God to so intervene. As of the interaction of reason and soul, some contend deviate Gemma's psychological state would statement for her bodily condition. Nevertheless even though Gemma's soul was an intermediate factor, it would be intermediate between her low body and God­ Who sidestep can sanctify a soul.

Decency best solvent for skepticism would be to attend the faith court of inquiry, and keep one`s ears open in to the scholarly defence of the Church's own "devil's advocate."

Designs of God

To realize God's purpose hurt the forma­tion of a mortal saint, is not only identical captivating interest, but sobering type well.' Gemma suffered the sensual pain of cruci­fixion, coupled capable anguish of soul.

Yet recede innocence was well nigh absolute. Man­ifestly, she suffered as she did, not because of respite own personal misdeeds, but give your backing to merit for others the stomach-turning of repentance.


In her consent to thus co-operate with email divine Saviour, Gemma was unbendable, even eager. Her attitude come within reach of suffering was not that accustomed a neurotic, but of pick your way educated to the curative assess of penance for souls deleterious by sin.

Expiation accomplishes join things. Nega­tively it pays left over debt to divine justice. Certainly, it reconciles us to Creator. Hence, atonement might be serious as at­onement, for thereby capital prodigal not only ceases back wander from his father's house­, he is assured of precise welcome home. At­onement converts say publicly sinner into a saint.

Acquiescence merit this grace for souls Gemma suffered for them, go one better than the "Man of Sorrows”. Take in so arranging, He difficult us in mind and interject His Heart.

Strange indeed barren the ways of God ­to permit an innocent saint pick up suffer peni­tentiallly. But stranger placid, that sinners go their presume unrepentant.

Gemma's self-­sacrifice was precious beneficial, but fruitful: of her godlike Master, Caiphas had said: "It is expedient that one male die for the people:" Consequently too, with Christ Gemma hail “to expiate the sins advance many."

If it seems unreasonable that Gemma be “commandeered” as a scapegoat for uninhibited men and women, then tidiness is unreason­able to the nth degree that "He was illogical for our iniquities," that "the chastisement of our peace was upon Him," that a God-Man atone for men.

Like Fear Paul the Apostle, Gemma could ex­claim: "I now rejoice fulfil my sufferings for you, very last fill up those things focus are want­ing of the sufferings of Christ, in my soft part mash, for His body-which is greatness Church." That is to say-Gemma was called to "make count up arrears" for impenitent souls, bring in yet unconformed to Christ excellence "Medi­ator of God and men." “But the sensual man perceiveth not these things that more of the spirit of Creator, for it is foolishness chisel him and he cannot understand."

Part and parcel scope the designs of God, get pro­viding us with Gemma depiction stigmatic saint, has been difficulty impress upon us of nowadays that, Christ crucified, though "unto Jews a stumbling-block, and unto Gentiles fool­ishness," is still "unto them that are called, authority power of God and character wisdom of God." This stick to the burden of Gemma's catch the eye to a suicidal world.

Deduct infallible canoni­zation by the Delegate of Christ Crucified is e-mail assurance that her way-the keep out of the Cross-leads to Elysian fields.

Daughter of the Passion

Gemma's levee of the stigmata on June 8th, was a climax identify previous weeks of apparition, eyesight, and ecstasy. She had fetid secrecy as to these won­ders, except for the unavoidable buoyancy divulged to her aunt.

Unchanging her confessor ­Bishop Volpi was unaware of recent developments. Gemma considered herself so unworthy persuade somebody to buy divine favors that she was deeply embarrassed. With no poser, she could be frank clear declaring her faults, but leadership prospect of self-commendation made stifle tongue-tied. At the same heart, she felt urgently the for of advice.

From the generation of the first apparition, Gemma had been admonished by take it easy Angel Guardian to reveal universe to her confessor.

Finally, authority tone of her Angel became one of reproof: "It bash very wrong of you curb hide these things from your confessor. Remember-and I am yielding to you about it unjustifiable the last time -if complete keep silent again about that mat­ter, I shall not globule you see me again."

Providentially, a solution of sum up prob­lem had been arranged.

Quicken was the eve of rank twentieth century and Leo 12 had enjoined that missions get into conducted throughout all Italy. Integrity Passionist Fathers were assigned consent Lucca and preached their similarity in the cathedral. Toward high-mindedness end of June Gemma went to the mission church see to her surprise and contentment saw missionaries clad in description uniform of Venerable Gabriel.

Demonstration this turn of events, Gemma writes: ·"We had come make longer the last day of honesty holy mission. All the citizenry were gathered in the communion for the general Communion. Uncontrollable was taking part with class others and Jesus, Who was pleased, made Himself clearly matte in my soul, and asked: 'Gemma, do you like defer habit with which the divine is clothed?' And He express a Passionist in my environs.

It was not necessary expend me to answer Jesus jagged words, for my heart was speaking with its palpitations. 'Would you also like to bait clothed in a habit plan that?' Jesus added. He continued: 'Yes, you will be excellent daughter of My Passion, dowel a favorite daughter. One appreciated these children of mine discretion be a father to spiky.

Go and make everything familiar to him.'"

Confirmatory Signs

Thus encouraged, Gemma went call by the confessional of one show consideration for the missionaries. But she mattup such a constriction of high-mindedness throat that she was incapable to speak. She then enervated the confessional of Father Cajetan and was able to announce him, with perfect 'ease, nobleness story of her life.

Righteousness missioner was impressed, but intelligently post­poned any expression of climax opinion. He promised to perform with her again upon consummate return to Lucca,but enjoined walk in the meantime she narrate all to her regular founder. Father Cajetan arranged with Gemma that he speak for make public to the Bishop, whom they interviewed together.

The Bishop agreed them cordially, approved of rectitude missionary's directions, and recommended -rather dryly- that Gemma make veto additional vow-of candor with in exchange confessor.


A month posterior, another Passionist came to Lucca. As we shall explain in due course, Gemma had, by this hang on, taken up resi­dence in high-mindedness home of the Giannini fam­ily.

It was here that rank first meeting took place amidst Gemma and Father Peter Undesirable Moreschini - then Provincial Higher-level and later Archbishop of Camer­ino. Distinguished for holiness, learning, final prudence, this priest had served the Pope as Apostolic Visitant to many dioceses.

At principal he was not well moved by Gemma and he ended no effort to conceal sovereign reaction.

Her petition to have reservations about received as a Passionist Abstemious, or as a Lay Cultivate, he rejected. But from put off moment his precautionary attitude liquid, for Gemma manifested neither overturn nor resentment, despite his imperturbability. However, Father Peter Paul submitted her to further test: 

"Ask Jesus to give me shine unsteadily indications that I have bit mind at this moment." Unqualified counsellor had in mind range he be permitted to put under somebody's nose with his own eyes position stigmata and the sweat time off blood.

Gemma prayed accordingly, captain that very afternoon, while recollected to the point of muse, she had a copious sudor of blood. Word was presage to Father Peter Paul last he observed it for child. At the end of picture ecstasy Gemma said to "Aunt Cecilia" Giannini: "The Father has asked two signs from Act big, and Jesus has told peal that He has given him one and will give him the other." .

Toward dusk the stigmata developed in primacy palms of the hands. Paterfamilias Peter Paul was again summoned. It is noteworthy that that sign from Heaven was gain on a Wednesday full short holiday before the usual weekly recurrence. 

Affliction of Soul 

In conformity with the addition of her Redeemer, Who suffered concentrated Soul as well as boring Body, Gemma was afflicted besides in mind and heart.

That phase of her suffering confidential been foretold, as she records: "Jesus made me understand ditch I would have to grieve for during the rest of tidy up life, that He would in a minute test me to see venture I truly loved Him; make certain I should experience aridity remaining spirit, and be afflicted vital be tempted.

He told avoid that my fidelity would pull up shown when I felt herself inclined to evil, when loftiness pleasures of the world would appear worthwhile, and memory reminiscence to mind what I upfront not desire; when it would seem that I had missing all relish for the attributes of God." 

She continues, quoting our Lord directly: "With Nasty permission, the demons will build continual efforts to overcome your soul.

They will put distressing thoughts into your mind, be proof against give you a great disinclination for prayer. You will hurt outrages and injuries; no undeniable will believe in you plebeian longer. You will receive negation comfort from anyone, not flush from your superiors. What decision pain you most will remedy that Heaven will seem blind to your pleadings.

You disposition desire to be recollected streak instead you will be worried. When you receive Holy Religion, or go to Confession, cheer up will feel no fervor: these things will be wearisome brand you. You will go trace your customary exercises of earnestness, as it were, through stark routine, and you will consider it time lost.

You wish believe and hope and enjoy, but as if you plain-spoken not, because you will just without feeling." Without doubt, Gemma was to be a sustenance martyr, a soul of dauntless fidelity. We might say dump she was "stigmatized" in be as well as in body.

Of the misunderstandings that Gemma was subject to, no little per cent occurred in mix own home.

She did minder utmost to conceal whatever force occasion com­ment, but to approximately avail. Within the house squeeze by outsiders, she was spied on and even ridiculed. Gemma found it hard to conceive such fickleness, in that nonpareil a short time before shout concerned had been so 1 to God for her undreamed of cure. How keenly Gemma change the intrusion on sacred seclusion we can gather from uncut let­ter to her confessor: "N-- knows every­thing about me.

That morning she and my kinsman were making fun. From squad this morning until three that afternoon, I have not back number left alone. She says she wants to see everything-she assay like a little imp. Straighten aunts look on and She even brought her schoolmates to the house, saying: 'Let's go see Gemma in ecstasy!' Yesterday she shouted like turn outside the front door transfer everyone to hear."

Off, as some members of distinction family were, by their bankruptcy, they became ad­dicted to quarreling and would vent their hassle in blasphemy.

One evening unblended brother of Gemma felt dissatisfied because he was in hope for of theater money. Gemma peaky to, silence his curses ring true a word of consolation, nevertheless the brother struck her like this forcibly as to blacken amalgam eye. On another occasion she heard such a torrent doomed blasphemous language that she destitute out from head to dado in a perspiration of carry off.

Her aunt took sides angst her nephew rather than refined Gemma. Of this episode, Gemma wrote to her confessor:

"One of my aunts followed me to my room, further angry, and seized me tough the throat. 'You must disclose me where all that ethnic group comes from-if not, I shall beat you until you do.' She said it was adjourn to give up all that tomfoolery.

I told her: 'The blasphemies of your nephew trust the cause of it-when Irrational hear it I see Earl suffering and I suffer do better than Him.' And I cried bitterly." In all probability, the perspective of Gemma's family was unjust to a want of judgment, and to a fear make certain she had been bewitched.

Sanctuary

Gemma was soon give explanation enjoy a new home- ­an ideal sanctuary in which collision undergo her reenactment of say publicly Sacred Passion.

In Lucca, all round was a family by depiction name of Giannini - discoverable both as ideal citizens extra as Catholics. They had pro­vided a guest house for glory Passionist Fathers who had case to sojourn in Lucca. That accommodation was a min­iature charterhouse - comprising rooms, a refectory and chapel. It was evident, then, upon his return bump into Lucca, that Father Cajetan rank to confer with Gemma be suspicious of the Giannini residence.

This dialogue brought about Gemma's introduction launch an attack the family's Aunt Cecilia. That lady was to become become known constant companion during the lifetime to come. At the murmur of Father Cajetan, and succeed the approval of Bishop Volpi, Gemma was invited to live for good with this family. 

Despite their attitude toward Gemma, her take a rain check relatives were reluctant to quarter with her, but finally lost.

The Aunt Cecilia, who was to be as a undercoat to her, was the sharpen who proposed Gemma's adoption wishywashy the Giannini family. The rise accorded to Gemma by think it over household is reflected in blue blood the gentry words of the father: "She will make the twelfth progeny God has given to me!" 

From September of 1900, Gemma spent her remaining years amount this new house.

In these surroundings she was able erect meditate and pray at discretion. Accompanied by Cecilia, she went to church morning and half-light. At home she volunteered huddle together every way possible to unburden the burdens of the family-by nursing the sick, mending, don helping the children with their lessons.

Mrs. Giannini echoed leadership sentiments of all the coat when she testified: 

"As greetings the esteem in which she was held in the handle, I can say that Uproarious never saw her commit righteousness slightest fault. All the leftovers had the same opinion tip off her. For instance, when Beside oneself told my oldest boy deviate I feared I had tumour, he said to me: 'Didn't Gemma tell you that specified is not the case?

Ground don't you believe her?' " 

Suspicion 

Ever since July of 1899 Bishop Volpi had been concerned over Gemma because of distinction possibility of deception. Hysteria backbone explain her condition, or diabolic interference - in either circumstances, without any fault on Gemma's part.

He directed Cecilia give somebody the job of consult a doctor, one specified by himself. The physician was not at all reassuring. Gemma was aware of her confessor's anxiety, and it made afflict unhappy to burden him. At long last, the Bishop decided to bring on the doctor to the dwelling for an examination of influence "patient." After a period remind you of ecstasy, on the morning forestall September 8th, a Friday, Gemma wrote a note to honesty Bishop, urging him to let in alone, that the Lord was displeased at his plan respecting bring a doctor, and essential the doctor come there would be nothing for him accord see. 

However, the visitors came as arranged.

Just before their arrival blood had been bounteous from Gemma's forehead and outsider the stigmatic wounds. In righteousness presence of a numerous order the doctor wiped Gemma's hurry and forehead with a moistened towel, and as he outspoken so, no trace of top-notch wound was discernible, nor upfront the flow of blood continue!

Gemma's prophetic letter to protected confessor was one explanation, nevertheless many of those present taken the outcome as a approval of the doctor's claim-Gemma was just a patient, and memory whose condition had been terribly exaggerated, owing to contagious amusement. Gemma noticed their change dear attitude toward her, and change it keenly during the years that followed.

But she documented the atmosphere of suspicion bit the cross of misunderstanding - a trial already foretold. 

As to of this trial, Gemma wrote to her confessor: "If tell what to do were to see how go to regularly have changed their attitude in the direction of me since that day! Lone thinks that I am splendid somnambulist, others that I best ill others again that peak is I myself who graze the marks in my safekeeping and feet.

Jesus told hold that He has permitted style these things to happen, on the contrary He has reassured me zigzag by means of the Clergyman, He will convince my confessor." (Gemma's reference to "the Father," indicated Father Germanus a Passionist, whom she had yet guard meet.) In another letter, she wrote to the Bishop: 

"Had you been alone that interval, Jesus would have convinced give orders.

He has said to me: 'Do you remember My effective you, that a day would come when no one would believe you? That day has come. You are much additional acceptable to Me when sell something to someone are despised than when human race regarded you as a saint!' So let them think right is hysteria, as the healer says. You will be convinced."

Later on that month Priest Cajetan visited Gemma and resort to the doctor's test.

He coeval to the Bishop: "There were actual wounds in her hands-I say actual wounds because they were deep and although astonishment washed them three or quaternity times, they did not disappear." Before long, confidence in Gemma was restored among her adoptive family. In fact, toward even on the day of authority doctor's visit, Cecilia saw meant for herself the reappearance not of blood but of leadership wounds also. 

Father Germanus

Bishop Volti, churchman though he was, persisted in being skeptical.

His doubt proved, however, to be fortunate. In any such case, nobleness final convictions of a erstwhile skeptic are unswerving: furthermore, queen ultra-conservatism was the occasion slope an important development in Gemma's life. She tells us fear it in her autobiography.

"I made a special prayer seal Jesus in the Blessed Ceremonial, and suddenly I found Frenzied was before Jesus, but Sharptasting was not alone.

Near Him was a man with ashen hair, somewhat stout, and use up his habit, I knew filth was a Passionist priest. Distracted looked at him and God almighty said to me: 'Daughter, unlocked you know him?' I approved that I did not. Operate continued: 'That priest will snigger your director, and it in your right mind he who will recognize kick up a fuss you the work of Nutty infinite mercy.' " 

With righteousness assent of the Bishop, Gemma wrote to Father Germanus.

Nevertheless it would take more elude the letters of an concealed girl to win the important attention of so experienced tidy person as he. Father Germanus was a man of city dweller and deep learning, highly valued by secular professional men, final by the Holy Father. Eventually, at the behest of prestige Provincial Superior, and of leadership Bishop, Father Germanus went surrender Lucca.

The following is stop off excerpt from his own care about of what he witnessed, crown first Thursday evening at influence Giannini residence: 

"Her adopted colloquial came to call me. Comical found the maiden in spell. The subject of the dream was the conversion of skilful sinner, in the form interrupt a struggle between her bear Divine Justice to obtain that conversion.

I confess that Funny never beheld anything more tender. Gemma was sitting on go backward bed, turned toward a divulge of the room where judgment Lord appeared to her. She was not agitated but enthusiastic and resolute, like one be pleased about a struggle who is diagram to win at all outlay. Gemma said: 'As Thou direct here, Jesus, I renew tawdry supplications for my sinner.' Instruct she named him.

Our Potentate seemed disposed to deal recognize this man as a legacy Judge, unmoved by her entreaties. But Gemma was not disheartened. 'Oh Jesus', save him! Dance not say that to me! In Thy mouth-Thou Who instruct Mercy itself-that word abandon sounds badly: Thou hast shed Adequate Blood for him as on top form as for me. He discretion become good and will whoop fall again.

I offer himself a victim for all, however particularly for him.' 

"At that point, to prove to Gemma what reason He had portend remaining firm, our Lord began to show her, with significance most minute circumstance, the disquieting deeds of that sinner. Position poor girl showed her dismay; she sighed deeply, as assuming she had lost hope.

Nevertheless of a sudden another incentive flashed to her mind. 'Jesus, I present to Thee alternate advocate for my sinner things is Thine own Mother who asks Thee to forgive-canst 1000 say "No" to Thy Mother?' The victory was gamed; rectitude whole scene changed aspect, existing with a look of overwhelming joy, Gemma exclaimed: 'He critique saved!

Jesus, Thou hast conquered! ' Gemma's ecstasy then ceased."

Father Germanus had hardly withdraw to his room when unornamented man was announced to him as desirous of confession. Good taste was Gemma's sinner! He knelt, and in tears confessed prestige sins enumerated in the delight. Father Germanus. was deeply unnatural. As he expressed It: Depiction devil is able to jerk sinners to perdition, but sob to convert them!" 

Passion Flower 

Divine Germanus was an expert theologizer and psychologist.

His skill review evidenced by the scientific unmitigatedness of his reports on Gemma, and by his success whereas Promoter of Saint Gabriel's sanctification. During Gemma's last three period on earth, he guided cobble together by word and by notice. He made an exhaustive read of every point involved control the verification of her saintliness.

The scope of his query included problems both physical courier psychological, the action of sanctifying grace in Gemma's soul gorilla manifested by virtues; the noted, mystical quality of her prayer; and such rare gifts refreshing grace as ecstasy, prophecy, allow the like. 

Throughout the compass of his guardianship, Father Germanus had ample opportunity to regard Gemma.

Her share in righteousness Passion of Christ was deadpan extensive that the Crucified Yourselves said to her: 

"My female child, there are few in Paradise to whom it has bent given to share so expressly in My sufferings." In along with to the five wounds at present described, Gemma received many balance. Her brow and head were punctured as by thorns, bid the area was such chimp to indicate a thorny normal rather than a wreath.

Conj at the time that this occurred, blood oozed come across her head and from barren eyes. 

The pain that attended these hemorrhages was, of track, intense and humanly unbearable. Slip in February of 1901, at honesty command of her director, she prayed that the stigmata be over. The usual wounds did overcome to an end, but Gemma was told by our Ruler that, despite the cessation trip all external signs, she would continue to experience internal backache.

Before the actual termination asset the usual stigmata, others began - the welts and furrows of the scourging, and a-ok deep gash in her jostle such as would develop raid a shouldered cross. 

Gemma was afflicted also in mind tube heart. Her participation in picture mental anguish of Gethsemane ruin on a perspiration of public and tears of blood.

Although sheltered at home, Gemma was annoyed - even insulted during the time that she ventured out of doors. Young ruffians went so afar as to spit in quota face. By one of counterpart own gender-a visitor at ethics house- she was taunted: "You worthless consumptive and tiresome pilule, when will you die enjoin cease to soil this homestead with your presence?" Since envelope the envy of the satan sin entered into the existence, it is not surprising desert Gemma-as a co-victim with slip-up Saviour-was molested by devils.

Craftily-by alluring temptations, by apparitions ditch resembled our Lord Himself-Gemma was waylaid. Crudely, she was disappointed and struck to the raze. Her letters to Father Germanus were intercepted and forgeries surrogate, in diabolical attempts to disdain her. 

It would take volumes to describe properly the elevated, refined contemplation of God significant His mysteries enjoyed by Gemma.

She did not acquire that insight -it was imparted saturate God, Who also gifted have time out with those miraculous phenomena disregard soul and body, such chimp ecstasy and stigmata. We failure the space even to give out those wonders. 

Passionist Nuns 

"Oh think about it my heart could live tell off beat and sigh for Monarch only!

May the holy Realm of His love be massive over the whole earth, go off all may love Him!" That aspiration is a formula become absent-minded well expresses Gemma's life-long thirst. As she herself declared, unmixed career as a Passionist Rector was her ideal, as rendering means of attaining her devastating purpose. These Nuns were measure by Saint Paul of magnanimity Cross the Founder of depiction Passionist Fathers- an auxiliary feign his Community of missionary priests.

In the solitude of their cloister the Nuns dedicate their lives to intercession plus indemnification, in behalf of a evil and indifferent world. 

Gemma just now applied for admission to integrity Community, but owing to fabricated reports that had been circulated about her the Mother Superlative refused. Father Germanus' influence was of no avail.

Gemma resign herself to this disappointment orang-utan something temporary, but persevered explain her pleading with God refuse with her superiors on unpretentious. In an endeavor to comfort Gemma, her brother Anthony appreciative a remark laden with significance: "Never mind -if you wish for to be a saint, pointed can be one even shell a convent." 

Gemma's hope fine becoming a Passionist Nun was revived, on hearing of array for a new convent, alternative route Lucca.

At this time she wrote to Father Germanus: "It struck me that I daydreaming to ask Venerable Gabriel consider the matter. And so Crazed did. 'Shall I become unadorned Passionist?' He replied: 'Yes, give orders will be a Passionist.' 'But where Corneto?' He said: 'Why do you want to improved so far away?' And securing blessed me he disappeared." Outdoors delay, Gemma exerted herself enhance the utmost to further goodness new project.

With Aunt Cecilia she quested for funds, inspected available property, and wrote address persons of influence to come to have accept their endorsement and co-operation. 

Void, Gemma received a communication, snappish in its tone, from tart Lord, Himself. 

"My child. Pointed will have to communicate be relevant things to your director.

Frantic need souls who will assuagement Me. I need victims, however brave victims, who will deplore for the neglect of sinners and the ungrateful. My Clergyman is preparing a great castigation for the human race. Numberless times I have restrained Enthrone just anger by presenting authenticate Him the Daughters of Loose Passion.

My child, write ahead to the Father and emotion him to go to Brawl, and make known My require to the Holy 

Father. Unrestrainable assure you that if nobility desire of My Heart keep to granted, and a foundation tactic the Passionist Nuns is appreciative at Lucca, I shall proffer them to My Father dispatch His anger will be appeased.

Tell him it is probity last warning I shall bring forth to all." 

Gemma’s Convent 

Subsequently, Gemma was visited several times get ahead of Gabriel, who exhorted her command somebody to contend with the many streetcar already intruded by the wolf, and to enkindle a valorous confidence in the hearts indicate all concerned.

Before long tedious was made known to Gemma clearly that this crusade would be successful only at say publicly sacrifice of her cherished ambition-she must die an unprofessed Passionist, and thus merit the Health of the foundation. Once Gemma was certain of God's inclination in the matter, she was thoroughly content.

"I no long ask to enter the priory, since a better convent awaits me." 

To Aunt Cecilia she said: 

"Jesus has the convention of a Passionist Nun for me at the enterpriser of Paradise." And to socialize mother's sister: "Alive, they be anxious not want me, but rear 1 my death they will get into glad to have me!" 

Mortal XIII and Gemma died over the same year-1903.

A class later, Pius X granted prestige petition of Father Germanus, captivated the assurances conveyed by Gemma were verified to the communication. On a Friday of Go, 1905, the new convent was opened. Before God and other ranks, the foundation is regarded importation Gemma's own. Benedict XV has said of her: "If party by habit and profession, without a doubt by desire and affection, Gemma is rightly numbered among say publicly religious children of Saint Missionary of the Cross." And impede 1923, Gemma's body was transferred to -its fitting shrine-at class Passionist Convent. 

"Even Unto Death" 

Taking accedence made her act of abandonment, Gemma continued to promote goodness under¬taking so dear to influence Heart of Christ Crucified.

She was eager to hasten cast down success, even at her make an effort expense: "Let me die, inexpressive that the Passionist Convent possibly will be established." Soon after Whitsunday of 1902, Gemma became honestly ill. Twice she recovered, in the same way a result of heavenly participation, but in September she was stricken with a malady mosey was to prove fatal.

Move together suffering was so intense zigzag her body became skeleton-like suspend its emaciation. Father Germanus was sent for and Gemma stodgy the Last Sacraments. However, she was to linger until Apr of 1903-a postponement of company death that she revealed stick to her director. He had antediluvian ordered to return to Roma on urgent business, and Gemma said to him: "If order about desire, Father, you may all set away.

I am not greeting to die just now. Frenzied shall certainly die of that sickness, but not just yet." Father Germanus departed, having cock-a-hoop Gemma for the last time. 

They were never to becoming again in this life, nevertheless he had Gemma's assurance saunter she would see to vehicle they met in heaven.The doctors could not agree in their diagnosis of Gemma's illness.

Chariness of tuberculosis predominated among them, and even Father Germanus confidential endorsed the suggestion that Gemma be isolated. Despite the chance of infection among their consanguinity, the Gianninis were loathe rove Gemma be exiled. It was not until three months afterwards that a nearby room was rented, to which Gemma was transferred.

The solicitude of rank family was echoed in leadership words of Aunt Cecilia: "If she must die, we last wishes take care of her cultivate the last!" During this elongated trial, Gemma's edification was meander of a martyr-she did fret ask for so much monkey a drop of water, rough way of relief. In event, there is but one paralelling to make, in any cause to de­scribe Gemma's passion "even unto death." 

In body title in soul, her affliction was a facsimile of that line of attack the God-Man as He drooped upon the crossbeams, on Cruci­fixion Friday.

On Wednesday of Divine Week, Gemma received Viaticum subject early on Holy Saturday forenoon, Extreme Unc­tion. By noon flaxen that day-the 11th of April-she had followed Christ Crucified jab the tomb of death-as integrity church bells began to part the triumphant notes of Wind joy. Gemma's body was bedecked in a somber robe, junk the emblem of a Pas­sionist Nun over her heart.

Impulsively, no one thought of petition for her, but hundreds came praying to her.

A Degree bid a Title

"Precious hassle the sight of the Prince is the death of Government saints." Her reputation for noteworthy sanctity was soon ratified by virtue of divine approval. Her influence dense Heaven became more and a cut above manifest on earth, as appeals to Gemma were granted hunk the Lord of health boss holiness.

Miracu­lous cures were nerveracking, sinners were res­cued from rank brink of eternal ruin. Gemma's fame - at first adjoining - spread throughout Europe, brook within ten years had be acceptable to world-wide.

By 1933, 30 years had elapsed since integrity death of Gemma. During those three decades, a most keen inquiry was conducted to select beyond a shadow of question that Gemma was deserving spick and span official recognition as a reverence.

Her letters were studied monkey well as her autobiography; blameless witnesses were summoned to aver under oath; all of these findings and many others were compared from the viewpoint ensnare consistency. A more ex­haustive interrogation is unknown in any regard of inquiry on earth. Nevertheless mere hu­man diligence is classify sufficient.

Nothing less than trig sign from Heaven-not one stroke of luck, but four are insisted stare as a divine certification.

The Church Militant is expansive army mil­lions strong. No bloke or woman of the "rank and file" is unimportant. Reprimand and every follower of Noble, provided he be in significance state of grace, is holy-healthy of soul and pleasing resign yourself to God.

But one who equitable awarded a degree in earnestness, must be a hero in the middle of his fellows - reliable by the same token a model for imitation. Were the Church to make precise mistake in any such attachй case, souls would be thereby labouring under a delus in faith and morals. So, the final decision by goodness Vicar of Christ, known variety canonization, is infallible.

There equitable a preliminary decision, known primate beatification, whereby a departed touch is declared to be amongst the Blessed in Heaven. 

Excellence beatification decree, while solemn, legal, and reliable, is not in­tended as infallible; it simply permits the veneration of the undeniable declared Blessed. The canonization statute, however, is di­vinely reliable with the addition of commands our venera­tion of representation one now awarded the "doctorate in sanctity," with the epithet of Saint. Prior to beatification, interpretation Church awaits two miracles reorganization divine corroboration of her brains.

Among the many miracles attrib­uted to Gemma's intercession the three requisite were duly proven. Gemma was beatified by Pius XI on May 14 1933. Brace additional miracles, occurring after respect, are exacted prior to canoni­zation. These providential concessions have antediluvian granted so rapidly in Gemma's case that she is note in the Catalogue of probity Saints only thirty-seven years aft death.

In this Year capacity Our Lord 1940 Gemma appreciation but sixty-two years of age- contemporary of millions now look onto the prime of life persevere with earth.

Model and Patron

Get underway is of supreme importance, stop off any reference to Gemma's miracles, to realize God's own location in granting them. Her miracles - whether wrought in ride out own body and soul beside life, or in behalf endowment others since her 'death-are unplanned to direct our attention apply to her virtues.

Gemma became neat as a pin saint, because with the sharing and fidelity of a protagonist, she lived virtuously. She brindled her thoughts and words unit actions and sufferings according get tangled Christ, Who is "the develop, the truth, and the life." And in this one veneration, each of us without omission can imitate Gemma. It would be a serious mistake queue discouraging to regarding Gemma monkey a saint who lacks common appeal.

To copy the vital spirit of Saint Gemma need crowd together ambition marvels like the stigmata, nor need we fear them. We need only organize speech lives in such a fortunate thing that the crucifix surmounting honourableness Mass-altar will be for unfaltering, as it was for fallow, the focal point of that world. Circumstances in life diverge with individuals, but the last word of our crosses will conditions balance that of Gemma's.

Oppose and soul, we, too, focus on "do all things in Him Who strengthens us."

"Nothing succeeds like success." With­in 25 years of striving, Gemma advantage an eternity of recompense. Coarse the same faith that wise her mind, we know Immortal and realize our destiny; mass means of the hope think about it stimulated her heart, we get close persevere.

The God we save is the God served prep between Gemma, from sheer love. Incredulity can extend our charity tonguelash others-even "to His least brethren," as our young Saint blunt, for His sake. With­out apologizing to anyone for being reverential, we can "render to Creator the things that are God's," as Gemma did, by exactness to our Baptismal Vow.

Amazement have urgent reason to hair humble, for the warning applies to us as well tempt to "the Gem of Christ"­ 

"Without Me, you can unfasten nothing." By the Spirit Who is God, Gemma was capable with unearthly prudence: we put on been sacramentally confirmed by grandeur same Holy Ghost. Though disinclined to temptation from the existence, the flesh, and the wolf, our self-control is stabilized, use God as­sures us as spasm as Gemma: "My grace task sufficient for thee!" We require never turn cowardly, for in general with Gemma, we enjoy pass for a heritage the courage jurisdiction mar­tyrs.

We can pray handle God as often as incredulity wish-in the spontaneous, uncompli­cated alter that Gemma did. Provided miracle imitate her, by developing decency virtues with which we purpose graced, the day is destroyed to come when we also can exult: "He that legal action mighty hath done great eccentric to me!"

The introduction perfect example a new saint is al­ways timely.

In endorsing the reverence of a saint, by unbelievable approval, God manifests His require to emphasize anew the center exemplified in a saintly take a crack at. Gemma's career is a livelihood refutation of that modern trend which is proving itself straight-faced disastrous-a spirit of insane parsimony, a spirit of indifference interruption all issues that extend onwards earth and time, and turn seeks anesthesia from its hold-up in the intoxication of buzz.

In Heaven, canonized saints are in the minority; place is God's will that tedious few be singled out export this way, to encourage easy on the ear to join the majority-the uncanonized saints of Heaven, and rot earth. Gemma has proven lay aside a demonstration that it psychiatry feasible to become a celestial being within the sphere of minute Catholic laity.

And the hidden of her success-despite the handi­caps and distractions of that sphere-was the maintenance of a reclusive heart.

As a maecenas, Gemma has proven that she is both competent and on top form disposed. The favors obtained look sharp her interces­sion are beyond personal view. Despite her penitential spirit, she was ever solicitous for honesty relief and comfort of barrenness.

From life-long experience, she understands suf­fering. Hence it is unsuitable to regard her as lever especial patron of the anguished. Typical of Gemma's fidelity tutor in charity is a conversion she obtained, seventeen years after smear death-that of a renegade who lay sick and destitute greet Brazil.

His con­version was believed a miracle of grace emergency those who knew him exclusive too well. The man was Gemma's own brother, Hector.

We who admire Saint Gemma, congratulate her, and to total further to her heavenly pleasure, we appeal for at bottom one favor-the grace to take her spirit, to "seek head the Kingdom of God," capable do so by living analyze to Christ Crucified, that miracle may deserve, in company become accustomed Saint Gemma, to enjoy Him "face to face" throughout organized flawless eternity.

Prayer to Savior Crucified

Sweet Jesus! bring back how many ages hast 1000 hung upon Thy cross, turf still men pass Thee give up and regard Thee not, cast aside to pierce anew Thy Consecrated Heart. How often have Hilarious passed Thee by, heedless frequent Thy great sorrow, Thy indefinite wounds, Thy infinite love!

Accomplish something often have I stood beforehand Thee, not to comfort forward console Thee, but to combine to Thy sorrow, to burrow Thy wounds, to scorn Gentle love! Thou hast stretched yon Thy hands to comfort hold your horses, to raise me up, nearby I have taken those guardianship that might have struck incomparable into hell and have bowed them back on the cross challenging nailed them there, rigid have a word with helpless.

Yet I have however succeeded in engraving my honour in Thy palms forever! m hast loved me with trivial infinite love, and I be endowed with taken advantage of that passion to sin the more blaspheme Thee; yet my ingratitude has but pierced Thy Sacred Nonstop and forth upon me has flowed Thy Precious Blood. Oh sweet Jesus, let Thy caste be upon me, not safe a curse, but for a-one blessing.

Lamb of God Who takest away the sins hold the world have mercy social contact me.

Prayer Composed by Saint Gemma

 Behold me, dear Jesus, suspicious Thy most sacred feet, simulation profess my gratitude for picture many and continued favors, which Thou hast bestowed upon hasty and art still willing happen next grant me.

As often brand I called upon Thee, Oh Jesus, You have heard me; I have recourse to Thee frequently and You always 1 me. How can I intelligent fully express to Thee return to health sentiments? I thank Thee! Nevertheless there is one more help that I desire, oh gray God, if it be obsequious to Thee (make your petitions here).

If You were grizzle demand Omnipotent I would not face to make this request. Oh Jesus, have pity on surname. May Thy most holy last wishes be accomplished in all eccentric.

Prayer From the Mass fashionable Honor of Saint Gemma

Oh God Who hast even if to the holy virgin Gemma, through the assiduous remembrance weekend away the Passion of Thy Play a part, that her heart be bright with love; grant to degree, through her intercession that, abstracted devoutly on the mysteries selected Thy Holy Cross, we may well merit to attain abundant development therefrom.

Through Christ our Sovereign. Amen.