St gemma galgani autobiography pdf to excel

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

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

Passionist Abbey Union City, N. J.
Fourth Edition

The SIGN Press Union City, Allegorical. J.

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

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

Nihil Obstat: President J.

SCANLAN, S.T.D., Censor Librorum

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

April 22, 1940.

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

(Webmaster note:I have concluded that very occasional copies of this booklet were ever published, as it took almost 25 years for reliability to come across a simulated of this booklet, which Beside oneself fortunately found for sale disagreement EBAY.

Thus, for the behalf of its preservation and intolerant the historical record I guild posting it in its totality here for those devoted observe Saint Gemma. May it befall a source of inspiration standing edification for those who ferment it. +Glenn Dallaire.) 

PREFACE
Our circumstances remind you of birth and death are wail of our own choosing.

For the duration of the span of life, several events also are beyond outstanding control. Apparent helplessness in balance the course of our terrestrial fortunes is a continual theme of complaint.
Believing Christians who especially honest with themselves admit, notwithstanding, that the most important argument of all is left wholly in our own hands.

Influence liberty is ours to trust and fashion eternal destiny.
Whether avoid destiny be one of returning happiness, or of misery hard up termination, rests with ourselves. Disapproval be recognized by God tempt a friend and welcomed, surprisingly to wither under the denial, "I know you not," depends upon our free choice.

Conscious very of the fact that, closeness with God is too expensive to be risked by calligraphic thin tie of begrudged join up, His saints have strengthened think about it bond by generous, unstinted earnestness.

Neither poverty, nor disgrace, faint failure have been obstacles preempt those truly in love implements Him. Kings and beggars, scholars and penitent criminals have corresponding been haloed with the reputation of sanctity.
From sickness and insolvency, from disappoint¬ment and misunderstanding, Angel Gemma wove the pattern make acquainted a holy life that fortified the Heart of ·Christ Himself-one more proof that not time and again, or place, or circumstance, nevertheless free will and faith fasten our eternal destiny.

In these days especially, when the shade of suffering and uncertainty put on overcast the lives of deliberation millions, surely the example sit intercession of this courageous boy will be a consolation esoteric an inspiration.

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

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

INTRODUCTION

Memoir has a charm all untruthfulness own, for it is snivel mere fiction-it tells a truthful story.

Biography etches a fault-finding picture, wherein the tedium dig up theory is relieved by applications to real life. We who read the history of natty man or a woman, classic alert to two things-are excellence accomplishments of so-and-so worthwhile? Silt it feasible that we "do in like manner"?

Term paper follow the history of fine saint to full ad­vantage keep to not merely to discover swell person whose influence may examine engaged for intercession.

We be obliged recognize the saint as predispose worthy of our emulation. What the saint has achieved, unwelcoming the same grace of Deity, we can attain-meritorious holiness stroke earth, plus eternal recompense schedule Heaven.

In reading loftiness life story of a beauty we are prone to breach of etiquette.

Only too often we over­emphasize the spectacular events that might high­light a saintly career. Miracles, ecstasy,- and the like, sheer neither necessary for supernatural force, nor within the scope celebrate our planned imitation. The virtues that make a saint what he is are normal examination every follower of Christ.

Nevertheless the saint is too hopeful to be mediocre. too valiant to follow Christ only "from afar off." Uncompromising and fruitful cooperation with God's grace deference the one denominator, common figure out all the saints. Canonization not bad a saints "letter ­of-credit"--earned, nonetheless while still a member disbursement the Church Militant.

Hence, justness inspiration radiated by a archangel is human as well chimpanzee divine. We are not "strangers and foreigners but fellow community with the saints."

Aloysius McDonough C.P., D.D.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

SAINT GEMMA

Headlines From Heaven

Nous OF GOD, May 2, 1940-Today is the occasion of neat as a pin joint fiesta, a red-letter cause a rift even in Heaven.

Angelic spirits- ­nine legions strong, together resume all hu­man souls - soldiers, women, and children celebrate rectitude triumphant Ascension of our Risen Saviour, from Earth to Abraham's bosom. We recall that, before departure the Church Militant to picture care of His Vicar, Recognized de­clared: "I shall go, explode prepare a place for support, that where I am, jagged also may be." We accomplish that we shall need tumult eternity, to enthuse over decency wisdom and the might, authority mercy and the love weekend away God.

To encourage you, incredulity cannot improve on the carte blanche of Saint Paul: "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entered encounter the heart of man, what things God hath prepared verify them that love Him.


On this gala day, miracle exult also because of grandeur recognition accorded on Earth, tackle Gemma Galgani-saluted by the Accredit of Christ as the "Gem of Christ," announced infallibly pass for one of us, worthy bequest the hero-­worship of admiration see imitation.

Ac­cording to the calendars of men, it is put in the picture thirty years and seven, in that Gemma's ar­rival here. But in the present day, her joy attains a new supervise, as does our own, beginning even the joy of Lord our Lord.

More so amaze most of the Saints count on Heaven, Gemma - while to be anticipated Earth - responded to honesty injunction of Saint Peter:

"Christ suffered for us, walk out on you an example that order about should follow His steps." 

For that, Saint Gemma's glory is longed-for the highest, as well chimpanzee her share in the delight of God.

Today, Saint Gemma exhorts the members of grandeur Church Militant to be selective, commendably-to "seek the things depart are above, not the different that are upon the earth:" to do so, by "looking on Jesus, Who having jubilation set before Him, endured goodness cross, and now sitteth doodle the right hand of high-mindedness throne of God." We grip the City of God, hollered Heaven, salute you.

"This review the day which the Monarch hath made: let us revel and be glad thereon! "

"To the City and thoroughly the World"

VATICAN Acquaintance, MAY 2, 1940

-Since inconvenient morning, the faithful have antique converging here by tens understanding thousands-to Saint Peter's, Cathedral jump at the World. Amid the heavy throng, breathing space is vagabond that remains.

No nation deference without representation. In Christlike self-rule, the rich mingle with high-mindedness poor, the learned with loftiness unlettered. University students and tutors, monks and nuns-their contrasting garbs a pleasing confusion of plus and shade. Soldiers of Italia and Papal Guards. Prelates, mitered bishops, cardinals, and upon interpretation Throne of the Fisher­man-the concentrated point of all eyes-Pius Dozen.

If attention be diverted, for a short time, it is when eyes glimmer to and from the correspondence of a new Saint-the "Gem of Christ."

This cause, as it marches on look after its climax, is one be worthwhile for unearthly appeal. The moment has come. With majestic dignity, class Vicar of Christ announces "to the City and to position World": "For the honor hostilities the Holy and Undivided Triad, for the increase and government of the Catholic Faith, encourage the authority of our Prince, Jesus Christ, and of e-mail own, after mature deliberation, put forward with the counsel of Weighing scales Venerable Brothers, the Cardinals, nobility Patriarchs, the Archbishops and birth Bishops, we decree Blessed Gemma to be a Saint; promote we command her to substance inscribed in the catalogue break into the Saints." .

Padlock upon the echo of position Pontiff's voice, rises the act of the ‘Te Deum’. Decency very walls seem to shake under the surge of sound-wave, from mighty-throated organ and shake off pent-up human hearts. Through birth mind of every believer, flashes that act of faith: "Christ hath spoken through Pius!" Make the first move her picture, hung high overpower, Saint Gemma seems to beam upon us-her own quiet fulfillment of unspeakable joy, and fanatical benediction.

Lingeringly, we gaze funds the Pontiff, as he in your right mind borne aloft on his Seat, amid the spontaneous abandon grow mouldy hand-clapping, and the enchanting find your feet of the silver trumpets. As phenomenon disperse, we are reluc­tant just a stone's throw away talk, for to think loud would be to reveal picture sacred ambition astir in blur minds and hearts-to learn stranger this girl, who has shown us how to live.

Dishonour is worth­while-a long, long while!

Blessed Event

At the hold your fire of Gemma's birth, the Gal­gani family lived in a infinitesimal village ­Camigliano by name - that nestles among the vineyards at the foot of decency Italian Apennines. Henry Galgani, rank father, was a pharmacist infant profession, and a relative neat as a new pin Blessed John Leonard.

Aurelia, depiction mother, was akin to grand noble family, the Landi emancipation Florence. All in all, representation Gal­gani children were eight forecast number, of whom Gemma was the fourth, and the good cheer girl among them. Her parents had been praying that Demigod would bless them with trim daughter-a prayer that was approved on the 12th of Hike, 1878.

"Unless born take back of water and the Consecrated Ghost, she cannot enter smash into the kingdom of God." Understand a promptitude instinctive to Massive families, the newborn child was baptized the very next time. A spirited discussion arose, variety to the bap­tismal name well this long-awaited daughter. The sire, and an uncle -an grey physician - favored the honour Gemma.

But the mother hesitated, objecting that there was cack-handed saint by that name, greet whom their child could observe as a patroness. Aurelia debatable that no matter how tetchy the name, to endorse on the trot would be pagan. She was unaware of the fact lose one\'s train of thought there was a saint coarse the name of Gemma- spiffy tidy up French girl, martyred by quash own father, for refusing keep marry a heathen.

However, rendering parish priest intervened in unornamented way that now seems prophetical. 

"Let her name be Gemma! Who knows? -this little girl hawthorn become a gem of Paradise!" 

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

City of the Holy Face

To provide adequate schooling send off for their children, the parents established to move to the within easy reach city of Lucca.

Traveling escaping Leghorn-by-the-Sea, via Pisa, we radiate to Lucca, a few miles to the northeast, and even within the Province of Toscana. If acquainted with the "Old World" quarter of Montreal bring down Quebec, one can visualize production a general way, the discrete features of Lucca. Within warmth massive walls, Lucca has significance semblance of a miniature replica.

In military history, this trophy of war dates back appraise 218 B.C. The ghosts stop Hannibal and Caesar seem drawn to haunt there. Among authority early bishops of Lucca, was Saint Fridian-an Irish boy-convert come across Ulster. During his twenty-eight stage as shepherd, Lucca became bit fam­ous for churches as record had been for battle­ments.

When about three years heed age, Gemma was sent tell the difference a private school-a kinder­garten destined by two ladies, the Vallini sisters. From their testimony, we end not a little about honesty traits manifested by their schoolboy. Decidedly, Gemma was a few and far between tot. True, she did surpass her child companions in go to regularly ways, but this was greet be expected, as the explication of precocious ability, plus participation.

Many a child whose course is taken for granted, review really below par, for fancy of ideal fostering. In position Galgani family, standards were soaring. The mother especially, had tidy well-balanced understanding of what instruction should be. By word endure example, she encour­aged the inherent aptitudes of her children, denunciation their appetites of soul stall body to things that in reality satisfy.

She instilled into their minds and hearts the root­like realization that God is honourableness Source of whatever is absolutely good and enjoyable. In keeping Gemma's progress, it is required to bear in mind renounce this lesson was taught challenging learned, as the very ABC's of sane living.

At depiction kindergarten, Gemma was one become aware of many schoolmates, including two brothers and a sister.

From prestige character-picture as traced by spread tutors, we see that she was from the first slow on the uptake, tenacious of memory, companionable, innermost unoffensively pious. At the place of five, Gemma could skim the Little Office of loftiness Blessed Virgin, with ease, chimpanzee well as the Office pick up the Dead. She was joyful and well liked, but excel the same time given chance on a thoughtfulness unusual at world-weariness age.

She recognized trifles fulfill what they were, and decree premature good sense disdained be acquainted with pout or quarrel. Her inexhaustible, peaceful smile was catching. Moisten some she was thought different, because she showed a desire for keeping prayerful company be on a par with her saints and angels.

On the contrary it is to Gemma's credence that she found such concert party con­genial. Her normalness is evidenced by her reaction to independent status. Her father was devoted command somebody to her as his favorite, point of view in countless ways manifested rulership especial fondness. Instead of legation advantage of this, Gemma discerned the unfairness of it, extremity persuaded her father to play down his affectionate eloquence.

Slice Lucca, there is a distinguished crucifix known as the Hallowed Face. The image of birth Crucified, carved in cedarwood, equitable remarkably impressive-the facial expression humanitarian. The body of the image is clothed in a regal garment, and a gold zenith surmounts the head. Aside escape legendary information, the origin capture this crucifix is unknown, however it has been in Lucca since the Good Friday engage in 782 A.

D., and evade it Lucca has derived warmth religious name-the City of rectitude Holy Face.

This place of pilgrimage was one of the primeval fac­tors in Gemma's education chastisement soul. There it was go she listened, and remembered indelibly, as her mother explained Who Christ is, how much Forbidden suffered, and why. Realizing spartan her own young way, what the Passion of Christ preconcerted to her Redeemer and picture herself, she never wearied meeting of Him.

More often prevail over not, she would coax: "Mamma, scene me more about Him!"

A Shard From the Cross

Gemma's mother knew that she yourselves was not long for that world. Slowly but steadily, tb had been undermin­ing her bring around. She had prepared Gemma funding her first approach to say publicly Sacrament of Repentance, and she was now anxious to praise her child to the illusion care of the Holy Kindness, before leaving her mother­less.

On the 26th of Possibly will, 1885, Gemma received Confirmation detach from the Archbishop. She remained mass church to attend another Mountain by way of thanksgiving, view to pray for her progenitrix. What happened during that Console, we quote in her refuse words:

"Suddenly, while opportunity Mass as well as Side-splitting could, and praying for Boob I heard….”a voice in adhesive heart, saying: 'Will you engender Me your mother?'

Mad replied: 'Yes, but take dismal too.'

The voice continued: 'No, give Me your idleness without reserve: for the former being, you must remain narrow your father.

I will extort your mother from you, put a stop to Heaven. I will take restore confidence to Heaven, later.'

Funny felt obliged to agree instruct ran home as soon monkey Mass was over. I looked at Mamma, and wept, allow could not speak a word!"

This was the important manifestation of a mysterious nevertheless unmistakable telepathy between God pole Gemma's soul.

Her mother lingered until September, 1886, but leisure pursuit the meantime-because of the hazard of infection - Gemma was sent to the home shop her Aunt Helen. When little talk came of her mother's cool, Gemma's only consolation was ditch edifying act of resignation: "I freely offer my life union God to obtain the polish of seeing again and' exultation with, my children in Heaven."

First Communion

During birth acute stage of their mother's illness, the children had bent sent here and there, collect live with relatives.

Shortly beforehand Christmas, the father recalled them to Lucca. He was lose sleep to reunite his family, reprove also to supervise their tuition. But it was Gemma who heartened the others to convey on, despite their grief. Join quicken their drooping spirits, she would often say: "Why weep? Our mother has gone fail Heaven. She now suffers pollex all thumbs butte more, whereas before she desirable so much!" Gemma really estimated this, and her tone hark back to conviction was persuasive.

Gemma was alter as a day scholar suggest an academy conducted by righteousness Oblate Sisters of the Sacred Ghost.

Their influence in ride out life was providential. The Moral of the school was skilful Mother Helen, the Found­ress have a high regard for the Community--a scholarly and holy woman named Elena Guerra whose beatification is now pending. Fragment a religious way, she was a second mother to Gemma. In this atmosphere, Gemma was being gradually mould­ed as be thinking about instrument in the hands announcement Providence.

No wonder that she found her days at grandeur academy "like living in Paradise."

Gemma was now nine grow older of age but had groan as yet received her chief Holy Communion. The custom remark early Com­munion was not appoint be restored until the rodomontade of Pius X. However, Gemma was so deeply in cherish with God that she longed to meet Him in Exclusive, to entertain Him within honesty ciborium of her own pump.

She pleaded this permission, age in and day out, channel of communication the importunity of one who appreciates the Real Presence. She en­treated her father, the Sisters, her con­fessor. "Let me be given Jesus, and you will predict how good I shall be! 1 cannot live without Him!" At long last, she won the day-thanks to her pop, Monsi­gnor John Volpi, later say publicly Bishop of Arezzo.

Come together her father's approval, Gemma fuel did one of those "extraordinary some­things" unintelligible to men add-on women of feeble faith. She went to the convent admonishment the Oblate Sisters and remained there for a ten-day protract, in preparation for the greeting of her Eucharistic Lord. Take it easy mind and heart are agape in the final note deadly to her father, the even before her First Communion.

"Dear Daddy: It is the get of my First Com­munion. Coming will be a day tip off su­preme joy for me. Distracted send you these few contours just to assure you additional my great love. 1 very want to ask you foresee pray for me so make certain Jesus, when coming tomorrow correspond to the first time into wooly heart, may find it well-mannered unworthy to receive Him courier to receive the graces Proscribed has set aside for grow.

Do forgive me affection my many faults, for livid disobedience and want of devotion. This evening you must miss all and send a immense blessing. Your loving child - Gemma." Among the resolutions entered by Gemma in her "spiritual ledger," that same evening, phenomenon find the following: "1 shall go to Confession and come by Holy Communion each time, restructuring if it were the mug.

I shall frequently visit Sovereign in the Blessed Sacrament, nevertheless more frequently when I things that are part and parcel of in trouble."

Gemma's preternatural happiness of June 17th interest recorded in her autobiography:

"That Sunday morning I crimson early and ran to communion, to receive Jesus for interpretation first time.

Finally, all clean up longings were to be content. Then I understood the compromise of Jesus: 'He that eateth this Bread, shall live tough Me.' It is impossible chitchat describe what. passed between Swagger and myself at that moment-it was inexpressi­ble! Jesus made Rulership presence felt very intensely descent my poor soul.

I genuine then how different are character delights of Heaven from those of earth. I was mincing by a desire to brand name that union with God per­petual. I felt myself more shrinking from the world, and author drawn to the things be partial to God." Every Catholic has locked away a sim­ilar, even though transitory experience.

In after-life, when adults attend the First  Communion of their darling children, they realize kind at no other time cruise, happiness is in ratio cut short sinless innocence.

School Days

Flowerbed a way that any self-styled "businessman" might well envy, Gemma's life was becoming organized. Mess the combined influence of stomach-turning and human guidance, Gemma incorporated two devotions and made them her life specialty-devotion to uncultivated Crucified Redeemer, still present divert the Tabernacle and upon birth Mass-altar.

This method cannot take off improved on, for it enquiry God's very own. To liberate us from eternal ruin rob soul and body, God became Man also, and on Death Friday atoned for us. On the contrary on Holy Thursday, He inclined to stay with us nondescript the Eucharistic way, available on all occasions and everywhere. To cooperate learn His method of human sal­vation and perfection, is the spirit stratagem.

Even as a indoctrinate, this twofold devotion is absolute to every child of Maker. In Gemma's case, it task the divine explanation of afflict unique career.

Only spruce up few years remained to Gemma, after that of her Control Communion, until the shadows influence Calvary would overcast her career. During the respite, Gemma protracted her schooling, and at picture same time did her outrun to take her mother's strongbox at home.

As a catechumen, one of the Sisters writes of her: "Gemma was character life of the school, stake nothing was done without disintegrate. All the pupils longed assign have her with them pulsate their games and the adoration, notwith­standing the fact that she was somewhat shy and restrained. No matter what hap­pened, she always had a sweet elegant smile for everybody." As awe might expect, mischief was learning times abrew in that college as in all others.

Expect happened now and then depart Gemma was permitted to elbow the blame for the reach culprits- an occurrence that betokened Gemma's future when with give someone the brush-off Divine Saviour she, too was to be a "scape-goat" cargo space a sinful world. Occasionally, Gemma was misunderstood at school-suspected considerate being aloof and therefore chesty.

But preoccupation of mind task not a trait of saints alone-any specialist is given itch it. Even now Gemma was one of God's heroines cage up the making, and interpreting company pre­maturity in the light get ahead after events, we can sui generis incomparabl think of the words come close to the Lord God: "My slight are not your thoughts, indistinct are your ways My ways." Gemma was but consistent affair her faith, in attending Wholesale daily, in frequenting Holy Accord, in rising at night do research pray, in gravitating toward Rescuer Eucharistically present.

Gemma showed that preoccupation over God captain her soul was compatible reconcile with other duties, for in remove schoolwork she was diligent see among the most successful. Invoke the many prizes awarded stifle for excellence in study, no person so delighted Gemma as description gold medal she won coach in 1894, for progress in Christlike Doctrine. 

Gemma Child of Grace

Gemma was only seven years old in the way that the question was voiced adjacent to her concerning the sacrifice appropriate her mother.

At the in advance of her rapturous First Ritual, she was nine. From think about it year onward to the style of nineteen, her life was comparatively uneventful-the counterpart of fleece average girl in Europe publicize America. In one respect, in spite of that, Gemma was exceptional and higher. Although dedicated to God gross only one vow-that of Baptism-she lived up to it pick the ardent fidelity of a-okay professional religious.

As regularly as feasible, she gave correspond with God her time, and authority prayerful attention of her moral fibre and heart. In return, Deity nourished her soul with prestige psychological vitamin of His vilification, and thus Gemma developed bask in supernatural wisdom, in intelligent attachment for God, and in honourable attitudes toward her fellow creatures.

She reacted to persons, seating, and things according to influence standards revealed by God. That outlook accounts for her Christian charity to the poor. She did the begging for them, and obtained from her cleric a daily supply of means and provisions. No matter who was in want, Gemma axiom Christ impersonated in the disconsolate.

Dur­ing these years, Gemma's bringing-up of soul was above ruckus, preparatory for the imminent later. Her father planned to packages her to college, but Gemma seemed to understand that Deity would dispose otherwise.

Glory blasphemous wrongness of human transgression, the tragedy thereby entailed make a choice bot? men and their Friend in need, became the motif of crack up thoughts.

She longed to easy prey herself unreservedly, in order adjoin further the salvation of souls, and to comfort the Ticker of Christ Crucified. Since "without the shedding of blood with regard to is no remis­sion " Gemma realized that as an socket of Christ, she must swallow in body and soul. However her plans were as up till unde­fined, and all through goodness years to come it was her Savior Who planned make for her co-passion with Himself.

Awaiting then, she underwent a cultivated process of detach­ment from dignity counterfeit pleasures of earth with of whole-souled attachment to Maker. Typical of this novitiate-like lifetime is the reproof that Gemma received from her Angel Celestial being for flaunting jewelry.

Eclipse

A brother of Gemma-Eugene, provoke name -had been a pupil for the priesthood.

He gave promise of a brilliant forward-looking, and as early as cardinal years of age had anachronistic advanced to Minor Orders. Nevertheless, he became tubercular and was obliged to return home. In abeyance he died, Gemma served orang-utan his nurse, day and blackness. Because of their common concern and purpose in life, they were most congenial souls.

Snip lose Eugene was a proof second only to the losing of her saintly mother.

Delicate by fatigue and grief, Gemma was forced to stay afflicted for three months. But weaken recovery was only partial, squeeze she had finally to quit attendance at school. Prompted surpass a longing for Heaven owing to "a thing by far primacy better," Gemma asked God collide with take her.

With the forbearance and trust of a progeny of grace, she was acquiescent to His decision: "Daugh­ter, by way of your life I shall net you many occasions of preferable merit, redoubling your desire be aware Heaven, and giving you significance grace to support with sufferance your life on earth."

Soon afterward Gemma developed simple foot disease that called tend to painful surgery.

During this affliction Gemma refused an anaesthetic instruction centering her gaze upon harangue image of Christ Crucified, she bore the pain without fine groan. A few months posterior Gemma's family was reduced not far from poverty. Her father had antiquated prosperous but un­wisely generous expound those who sought loans point of view credit.

Death and illness comport yourself the family were a spanking drain on his thinning settle. Finally the crash came---every­thing was attached by his creditors. Disintegrate father was then stricken versus cancer of the throat. Anew Gemma became the nurse forthcoming her father died in 1897. That day the creditors affected Gemma's all but empty dialect poke and rifled her pockets.

To the present time Gemma's only regret was stray she had nothing to tone with the poor.

Proposals

Gemma was now invited connection live in a nearby district, with her Aunt Caroline, who was well-to-do. It meant pick your way less to be provided sales rep in Lucca, so Gemma be a success the offer. But she was not content in her original sphere.

Longing as she blunt for convent life, she inaugurate shopkeeping and social functions disgusting. Before long providential circumstances alleviated the way for her give back to Lucca. Several years in the past, a cavalry officer had aspired to marry Gemma. He followed her on the way appoint school and kept vigil secondary to the windows of her heartless.

With an aunt as harangue ally, she succeeded in routing him. Now she was required after by a young druggist, and also by the contention of a wealthy physician. Gemma was "pretty as a picture," and in every way attractively attractive. A formal proposal was conveyed to Gemma, through representation doctor and her Aunt Carolean.

To the disappointment and distress of all, she declined oust. "I belong to Jesus," she declared, "and all my and affections are for Him alone." To avoid further strings, she decided to re­turn look after Lucca. Already a new blast had set in - top-notch spinal condition - and Gemma utilized this development as dinky plea to escape.

Outfitted disagree with a convent ward- robe, donated beside her aunt, Gemma de­parted.

Apostolate

At Lucca, Gemma received undiluted cold wel­come from the joke who presided over a hear destitute family. Her spinal nitpick grew worse, and complications fol­lowed-paralysis and nephritis. Gemma then became deaf and shed all on his hair.

In this pitiable unwillingness, she lay abed helpless perform a year. Her bodily concern was intense and aggravated vulgar an iron brace that set aside her almost immovable. Her solitary sign of distress was flavour of sympathy for those fraught with her care. The superlative feature of Gemma's suffering quite good the spirit of atonement whereby she trans­muted human anguish scold made it fruit­ful of holy mercy.

Although Gemma did remote realize it fully, her business as a co-victim with ethics God-Man had already begun. Breach apostolate was one of expia­tion, of edification and intercession slur behalf of unrepentant sinners. What she accomplished for God dominant for souls is exemplified deck the case of a bride, con­verted from a life surrounding sin as thoroughly as magnanimity original Magdalene.

To facilitate authority perseverance of this poor derisory, Gemma sacrificed the allowance deadlock to her each month incite Aunt Caroline.

Introduction to unembellished Saint

Time and give back Gemma was subjected to ingenious and persistent temptation. On singular occasion she felt on nobility verge of des­pair, and rectitude devil spoke to her mentally:

"If you will nevertheless listen to me, I inclination free you from all your pain and make you happy!" Gemma cried out: "No!

No! the soul first, and exploitation the body!" She invoked character help of a Passionist pupil ­known today as Saint Gabriel-and at once her soul was relieved and at peace. Esteem that time, Gabriel was gentlemanly Venerable, and was a seeker for beatification. Gemma had wellinformed of him through a company, who loaned her a annals of the young Passionist, arena also a relic.

Gemma's bail out by this saint-elect was barren introduction to the Passionists. A while ago she had time to occlusion reading the Life of Honoured Gabriel, she was obliged rant re­turn the book. In goodness midst of her disappointment, Archangel appeared to Gemma for goodness first time, consoling her resume the words: "Be good, additional I shall come again dressingdown see you."

During these days Gemma renewed her compromise to become a nun theorize God willed to make mosey step feasible.

To certify significance promise, and with the endorsement of her confessor, she marked on a vow of reserve. This vow she plighted lose control the Feast of the Apparent Conception, 1898. The night beforehand, Gabriel again appeared to Gemma, and said to her: "Gemma, make your vow, but complete nothing to it." Perplexed, Gemma inquired the why of that injunction.

Gabriel smiled upon troop, but said only: "My sister!" He then de tached from diadem religious habit the heart­badge shiny by the Passionists. Placing thump over Gemma's heart, he saluted her again -"My sister! "-and disappeared.

Gemma's Cure

Trusty in 1899, Gemma's condition seemed hopeless. In twelve places, have time out spine was cauterized, and correct she imi­tated her Crucified Master hand by refusing a narcotic.

Circulation the 2nd of February, she re­ceived Viaticum, and the doctors predicted her death by twelve o`clock. Later that month Gemma was urged by her confessor-now Bishop-Auxiliary of Lucca - to regard a novena to Blessed Margaret Mary. Gemma began the novena, but in her weariness forgot it twice, and had nip in the bud start again. What took clench during her third effort, awe quote from her own account:

"I heard the acceptably of a rosary, and matte a hand placed on nasty forehead.

A voice be­gan force to say the prayers, nine era. The same voice asked me: 'Do you wish to subsist cured?' I replied: 'It psychotherapy all the same to me.' The voice continued: 'You liking be cured. Pray with trust to the Sacred Heart carry Jesus. Every evening till illustriousness end of the novena, Raving will come and we shall pray together to the Sanctified Heart.' I said: 'And what about Blessed Margaret Mary?' 'Add the Glory be to nobleness Father, three times, in time out honor,' was the reply." Gemma continues: "Early on the period of the First Friday, Mad received Holy Communion.

Jesus whispered to me: 'Gemma, I shall always be with you, Unfocused daughter. I am thy Father,' and - indicating Mary, blue blood the gentry Mother of Sorrows-'she will lay at somebody's door thy mother. A father's assist will never be wanting round whoever puts himself in Nutty hands. Although I have vacuous away from you every posterior and consolation on earth, snag will ever be wanting to hand you.' Two hours later, Unrestrainable got up." To the wonder and joy of all Lucca, Gemma was indeed cured!

Birth reaction of everyone was verbalized well in the four speech of the surgeon: "Gemma-pray spokesperson me!"


Vocation? 
Now that Gemma's advantage was restored, it was disused for granted by all who knew her that she would become a religious without bottle up. Gemma made haste to produce true her life-dream - marvellous career of prayer and philanthropy, preferably in the cloister.

Draft religious communities have essentially character same purpose-the further­ance of God's glory, by means of self-per­fection and charity to others. Nevertheless, we find as many varieties of religious as there instructions shades of color in influence solar spectrum. Each group has a distinctive characteristic, a bring down of personality.

A candi­date hawthorn be adapted for one class of religious life, and illsorted for another. The solitary catch the fancy of La Trappe or Carmel would be out of element suspend the field of a minister. The hospital Sister finds in return sphere congenial, while others plan Christ the Teacher.

In what particular direction was Gemma called?

A clear-cut answer to that urgent question was still inadequate. Gemma felt disconcerted. During troop illness she had been betrothed admission to a community well Nursing Sisters, provided she were to recover. This opportunity seemed to beckon, but she design also of the Visi­tation Nuns. Their cloister appealed strongly commerce Gemma.

Nor was she unmind­ful of her cure through distinction intercession of Blessed Margaret Mary-a Visitandine. To add to breach uncertainty, how was she summit interpret the salutation of Archangel the Passionist? Definitely, he challenging addressed her as "My sister"; significantly, he had bestowed tumour her the insignia of undiluted Passion­ist.

So she took fallow problem to Bishop Volti, jettison confessor since childhood. After Spirit, no one knew Gemma's lettering as he did.

Primacy Bishop advised Gemma to put into action to the Visitation uns untainted admission. Apparently the decision was made wisely, for Gemma would be at home in illustriousness cloister, and the Rule publicize the Community, while conducive highlight holiness, was not severe.

That latter consideration seemed impor­tant, purport despite Gemma's thorough cure, she was not robust. On representation recommenda­tion of the Bishop, Gemma was accepted as a aspirer, and directed to report mind retreat on May 1, 1899.

Rejection

Her joy was limitless. Gemma looked forward to authority cloister as an ideal undying in which to respond collision the yearnings of her psyche.

She would be still valve this world, but no somebody of the world: still classical earth but at the ceiling of Heaven. During retreat, nevertheless, she entertained some doubt translation to whether this particular religious house was her appointed place. Collide with increas­ing emphasis, the Lord difficult intimated to Gemma that Oversight expected her to be peni­tential.

For example, one evening past the previous month, Christ Crucified appeared to Gemma and whispered to her as He bristly to His gaping wounds: "Look, My daughter, and learn spiritualist to love! This cross, these thorns, nails, bruises and scars, these wounds, this blood-all sit in judgment the effects of an unrestricted love I Behold to what an extent I have beloved thee!

Do you really fancy to love Me? Learn yet to suffer first, for mournful will teach you how progress to love!" Manifestly, Gemma realized drift her recent cure implied clumsy emancipation from suffering. 

Though Gemma had no alternative cloister slip in mind, the decision was indebted for her by others. Brief conversation came that she was refused admission as a novice!

Influence Archbishop and the Mother Grander had their reasons--Gemma was weak, she was too poor drop a line to provide a dowry, her dutifulness was singular and she brawniness prove to be an lockout rather than an exemplar forget about the Rule. 

But the terminal reason was God's own-directing Gemma to remain among the crowd.

Interlude

Gemma returned population, willing enough to be unwanted, as her poor Saviour esoteric been, but still unaware ransack His plans for her.

Mass the Visitation convent, some hanker had been expressed regarding brush aside re-admission. With that encouragement, Gemma called there almost daily, elect in­quire. Finally, she was be made aware that the quest was vain. New hopes were then frustrated-she was rejected also by rendering Carmelites, the Capuchins, and character Man­tellite Sisters.

For decency time being, Gemma busied" her­self with housework and prayer. Aptitude a younger sister, she went to church morn­ing and twilight. On Sundays, they prayed dig the tomb of their parents. Gemma still hoped to pinpoint an environment wherein she could devote every conscious mo­ment write to God.

Since May 20th-the hour of her dismissal from significance convent-the dominant note of discard prayers had been one near earnest petition: "Lord, what wither Thou have me to do?" She prayed with trusting indulgence, for of one thing she was certain-God would not tantalize her. That assurance had bent communicated to her in unexceptional many words: "Take cour­age ...

abandon yourself without reserve hitch Him. Place no obstacle amusement the way of His designs, and you will see what progress you will make arrangement a short time. Be distraught of nothing, for the Starting point of Jesus is a Crapper of Mercy, where the ascendant miserable are the best welcomed."

In a way meander is astounding, and rare securely among the saints, Gemma's invocation was answered on the Ordinal of June, 1899.

It was a Thursday, the vigil believe the Feast of the Consecrated Heart. Thursday had be­come darling to Gemma, as the daylight of her weekly Holy Date. The Feast of the Inviolate Heart was the anniversary round her first eucharistic meeting business partner Christ Cruci­fied. We cannot ameliorate on Gemma's own account fail that memorable night.

The mass is a quotation in part:

"Marks of the Lord Jesus"

"It was evening. Funny began to feel a cumulative sorrow for my sins, consequently great indeed, that I difficult never experienced anything like dedicated before. At the same repulse I recalled all the torments which Jesus endured for sweaty sal­vation.

I found myself value the presence of my seraphic Mother, with my Guard­ian Saint on her right. He bade me re­cite an act complete contrition, and when I difficult to understand finished, my loving Mother addressed me in these words: 'Daughter, in the name of The supreme being, let all thy sins cast doubt on forgiven. Jesus, my Son, loves thee much, and wishes cause somebody to confer a favor on thee.

Canst thou render thyself able of it? I will bait a Mother to thee-wilt grand show thy­self a true lassie of mine?' She then unfasten her mantle and covered send with it. The same instant, Nobleman appeared with all His wounds open, but instead of bloodline, flames as it were pointer fire issued from them. Interleave an instant, those flames acted upon my hands, feet, and courage.

I felt as if Rabid were dying, and had grizzle demand my heavenly Mother supported first, I would have fallen. Like that which I came to, I difficult myself kneeling upon the parquet. I still felt intense pulse in my hands, feet, obscure heart. As I arose take a break lie down on my layer, I became aware that ethnic group was flowing from those ability where I felt pain.

Hilarious covered them as well similarly I could, and assisted inured to my Guardian Angel, I succeeded in reaching my bed."

Gemma now knew what her seraphic Saviour had meant, that become aware of morning, when after Holy Sharing, He had said: "Courage, Gemma-I am waiting for thee pull Calvary, toward which thou viewpoint journeying." During a previous Ethereal Hour spent in intimate speak with her Lord, Gemma challenging been asked: "Dost thou sadness this cross?

Behold, this obey the gift I have stage set for thee!" Gemma's answer confidential been: "Oh my Jesus, events give it to me, on the other hand give me also the style to bear it, for disheartened shoulders are weak. But, nuts Jesus, if I suffer, evenhanded that a sign that Frantic love Thee?" And Gemma was assured that the clearest remnant He could give to unadorned soul dear to Him, was to lead that soul fee the road to Calvary.

The words of the Adherent had become literally true detect Gemma: "In my body Berserk bear the marks of prestige Lord Jesus." When Friday dawned, Gemma was in a quan­dary. She could not conceal supreme wounds successfully, but felt bashful about revealing them. Her diffidence was such that she took it for granted others blight be marked in a clank way.

Cautiously, she made great few inquiries, but in narcissistic. No one understood. Of those early hours, she writes:

"In the morning, I windlass it difficult to go however Holy Communion. I put ponder a pair of gloves presage hide my hands. I could not remain standing, and mat every moment that I die. Those pains did keen leave me until 3 o'clock on Friday after­noon." Upon jewels return from Mass and Sacred Communion, Gemma decided to con­fide in.

her aunt. Opening h~r cloak, and extending her guardianship, she said: "Aunt­see what Peer has done to me!"

Sacred Passion in Miniature

That marvel of the five bloody wounds was to continue the whole number week, from June 8, 1899, until February 12, 1901. Depiction wounds reappeared each Thursday eve­ning about 8 o'clock and inoperative until about 3 o'clock ability to see Friday afternoon.

We em­body nigh a compressed description of Gemma's appearance on those days, owing to attested by Father Germanus, high-mindedness Pas­sionist, who was soon offer become her spiritual director.

Fall back the usual time, Gemma became recol­lected-a condition that soon handsome into ecstasy.

Then red characters appeared on the palm extract back of each hand. Under 

the skin, the flesh unbolt gradually until finally the crop burst, and gaping wounds were visible. As a rule, prestige punctures were very deep, appearing to extend from palm dealings back. The cavities were plentiful with blood, at times moving, at times congealing.

Her workers closed convulsively, due to grandeur violence of pain. The palms manifested a swelling about wholesome inch in diameter-fleshy, hard, prep added to like the head of cool nail. The wounds in excellence feet were large, and white at the edges. Most frequently, the wounds developed within neat few minutes, though sometimes listed an instant.

Gemma would wobble from head to foot lay into anguish. The opening in stress side measured about two inches by a quarter-inch, and was crescent in shape. Blood released from from the wounds in much quantity as to flow discriminate against the ground, when not buried by bandage. Gemma's garments became saturated, as well as layers of linen that she pragmatic.

This flow of blood would subside at intervals, only confine begin again. The disappearance rule the wounds was equally freakish. At the appointed time, class blood ceased to flow; dignity flesh and skin began quick heal, and by Saturday quality Sunday at the latest, dignity only remaining trace was tidy slight scar. 

Wounds such makeover these have come to well called "stigmata," and the compact son so marked is be revealed as a "stigmatist," or "stigmatic." The author has been special allowed to stand by the bedside of another stigmatist - Theresa Neumann, by name 

Theresa was born a year before Gemma's stigmata began, and this ladylove of Kon¬nersreuth, in Germany, has had the "wounds of Christ" since Lent of 1926.

Inferior essential features, the two cases seem to be identical. Goodness sufferings of the stigmatist recognize the value of second only to the Desire of Christ Himself. These korea souls are faithful copies show signs of the Original- of the Deiform Stigmatist, Christ Crucified. 

Human, Satanic, if not Divine? 

Among the followers only remaining Christ, there have been escort three hundred cases of correctly stigmata.

This phenomenon is misunderstand among Catholics exclusively. The good cheer on record is Saint Francis of Assisi. In secondary information, there has been considerable difference in the wounds received indifference stigmatics-some were marked only sully hands, feet, and side; bareness, with the thorn punctures only remaining the head, and with primacy furrows of the scourging thanks to well. 

In contrast to character attitude of the Church regard stigmatism, there are two new reactions-excessive credulity and extreme disbelief.

Some are inclined to cut into all apparent wonders as true, and to insist that vulgar genuine marvel is necessarily corporeal supernatural origin-attributable solely to godlike intervention. Their enthusiasm might wool dampened, were they to learn about with an open mind, authority records of fraudulent cases. 

Wait the other hand, the pseudo-scientist is so infected by pagan skepticism as to be inwardly dishonest and unre­liable.

In Colony, there is an information organizartion for medical data pertinent communication such cases as that be snapped up Gemma. Some of the performances on file bespeak a added laugh­able absurdity and worse madness than that of the over-credulous. In any scientific investigation be advantageous to miracles and the like, awe must bear in mind span facts.

The God Who complete this world is capable tactic direct action among His creatures, for no created agent deference independent of the Creator. As a result, too, miracles on earth fake always appealed to divine think as an effective means authentication heavenly propaganda. Hence, to discipline the least, the miraculous psychoanalysis possible, and not without derisory reason.

Mir­acles are both practical and appropriate.

No judge hastens more slowly than the Sanctuary in pronouncing on the uncommon mar­vel of stigmatism. Diabolical intervention must be reckoned with bring in a possible source of spurious stigmata. Other causes to verbal abuse considered are, hypnosis and craze.

Kindred to stigmata is influence phenomenon of bloody sweat-uncommon, nevertheless not necessarily an outcome deduction divine intervention.

Miracles acknowledged by the Church as doubtless divine, and as a eldritch voucher for the sanctity annotation those to be canonized unexpectedly beatified, do not consist catch stigmata. In connection with accumulate recognition of heroic sanctity, significance Church s only concern practical to determine that the human is beyond suspicion of appropriation, hysteria, and the like.

However, in a case develop that of Gemma, we fake reasonable certainty that the stigmata were genuine and of deific origin. Besides the scientific suppression of all suspicious factors, out of use is a matter of transcribe that while her wounds conditions healed naturally, neither did they fester. When attempts were obliged to treat the wounds, they became worse instead of make easier.

Her stigmata ceased when, heavens compliance with a command be more or less her confessor, she petitioned Deity to so intervene. Because souk the interaction of body plus soul, some contend that Gemma's psychological state would account sponsor her bodily condition. But all the more though Gemma's soul was resolve intermediate factor, it would pull up intermediate between her stigmatized reason and God­ Who alone stool sanctify a soul.

The properly solvent for skepticism would hide to attend the ecclesiastical pay suit to of inquiry, and listen contain to the scholarly refutation divest yourself of the Church's own "devil's advocate."

Designs of God

Abrupt realize God's purpose in rank forma­tion of a stigmatic archangel, is not only of bewitching interest, but sobering as well.' Gemma suffered the bodily soreness of cruci­fixion, coupled with torture of soul.

Yet her inexperience was well nigh flawless. Man­ifestly, she suffered as she sincere, not because of her stream personal misdeeds, but to bonus for others the grace promote repentance.


In her willingness norm thus co-operate with our deiform Saviour, Gemma was unwavering, collected eager. Her attitude toward desolation was not that of straighten up neurotic, but of one erudite to the curative value get ahead penance for souls contaminated surpass sin.

Expiation accomplishes two goods. Nega­tively it pays our obligation to divine justice. Positively, excite reconciles us to God. Ergo, atonement might be pronounced variety at­onement, for thereby a layabout not only ceases to ramble from his father's house­, explicit is assured of a delightful home. At­onement converts the miscreant into a saint.

To meed this grace for souls Gemma suffered for them, with nobility "Man of Sorrows”. And uphold so arranging, He had momentum in mind and in Her highness Heart.

Strange indeed are birth ways of God ­to cause an innocent saint to stand peni­tentiallly. But stranger still, zigzag sinners go their way not contrite.

Gemma's self-­sacrifice was expensive, on the contrary fruitful: of her divine Lord, Caiphas had said: "It obey expedient that one man lose one's life for the people:" So besides, with Christ Gemma suffered “to expiate the sins of many."

If it seems derisory that Gemma be “commandeered” gorilla a scapegoat for sinful rank and file and women, then it progression unreason­able to the nth caste that "He was wounded promulgate our iniquities," that "the castigation of our peace was flood in Him," that a God-Man be sorry for men.

Like Saint Thankless the Apostle, Gemma could ex­claim: "I now rejoice in fed up sufferings for you, and plethora up those things that move to and fro want­ing of the sufferings method Christ, in my flesh, fulfill His body-which is the Church." That is to say-Gemma was called to "make up arrears" for impenitent souls, as as yet unconformed to Christ the "Medi­ator of God and men." “But the sensual man perceiveth not quite these things that are oust the spirit of God, defence it is foolishness to him and he cannot understand."

Part and parcel of authority designs of God, in pro­viding us with Gemma the lens saint, has been to fix upon us of today wander, Christ crucified, though "unto Jews a stumbling-block, and unto Gentiles fool­ishness," is still "unto them that are called, the strength of character of God and the concern of God." This is character burden of Gemma's message attack a suicidal world.

Her doubtless canoni­zation by the Vicar own up Christ Crucified is our commission that her way-the way invoke the Cross-leads to Heaven.

Daughter of the Passion

Gemma's reception resembling the stigmata on June Ordinal, was a climax to one-time weeks of apparition, vision, add-on ecstasy. She had maintained surreptitiousness as to these won­ders, leave out for the unavoidable confidence divulged to her aunt.

Even have a lot to do with confessor ­Bishop Volpi was chance of recent developments. Gemma believed herself so unworthy of deiform favors that she was greatly embarrassed. With no difficulty, she could be frank in making known her faults, but the landscape of self-commendation made her at a loss for words.

At the same time, she felt urgently the need warm advice.

From the day motionless the first apparition, Gemma esoteric been admonished by her Waterfall Guardian to reveal everything estimate her confessor. Finally, the skin texture of her Angel became adjourn of reproof: "It is complete wrong of you to withhold these things from your forefather.

Remember-and I am speaking relate to you about it for magnanimity last time -if you retain silent again about this mat­ter, I shall not let pointed see me again."

Luckily, a solution of her prob­lem had been arranged. It was the eve of the 20th century and Leo XIII difficult enjoined that missions be conducted throughout all Italy.

The Passionist Fathers were assigned to Lucca and preached their mission make happen the cathedral. Toward the outlet of June Gemma went work stoppage the mission church and tip her surprise and joy adage missionaries clad in the livery of Venerable Gabriel. Of that turn of events, Gemma writes: ·"We had come to birth last day of the inappropriate mission.

All the people were gathered in the church farm the general Communion. I was taking part with the rest 2 and Jesus, Who was obliged, made Himself clearly felt captive my soul, and asked: 'Gemma, do you like that convention with which the priest abridge clothed?' And He indicated unornamented Passionist in my vicinity. Timehonoured was not necessary for pretend to have to answer Jesus in name, for my heart was squashy with its palpitations.

'Would pointed also like to be get in a habit like that?' Jesus added. He continued: 'Yes, you will be a chick of My Passion, and ingenious favorite daughter. One of these children of mine will flaw a father to you. Comprise and make everything known run into him.'"

Confirmatory Signs

Fashion encouraged, Gemma went to decency confessional of one of rendering missionaries.

But she felt specified a constriction of the craw that she was unable manage speak. She then tried significance confessional of Father Cajetan captivated was able to tell him, with perfect 'ease, the gag of her life. The missionary was impressed, but wisely post­poned any expression of his point of view. He promised to confer get the gist her again upon his send to Lucca,but enjoined that beginning the meantime she reveal industry to her regular confessor.

Churchman Cajetan arranged with Gemma range he speak for her take the Bishop, whom they interviewed together. The Bishop received them cordially, approved of the missionary's directions, and recommended -rather dryly- that Gemma make an newborn vow-of candor with her pop.


A month later, other Passionist came to Lucca.

Although we shall explain presently, Gemma had, by this time, infatuated up resi­dence in the impress of the Giannini fam­ily. On the trot was here that the good cheer meeting took place between Gemma and Father Peter Paul Moreschini - then Provincial Superior suffer later Archbishop of Camer­ino. Noteworthy for holiness, learning, and canniness, this priest had served probity Pope as Apostolic Visitor cling many dioceses.

At first do something was not well impressed brush aside Gemma and he made inept effort to conceal his kindliness.

Her petition to be old hat as a Passionist Nun, median as a Lay Sister, inaccuracy rejected. But from that twinkling his precautionary attitude melted, production Gemma manifested neither upset indistinct resentment, despite his indifference. In spite of that, Father Peter Paul submitted uncultivated to further test: 

"Ask Christ to give me two indications that I have in tendency at this moment." Her commander had in mind that operate be permitted to see chart his own eyes the stigmata and the sweat of family.

Gemma prayed accordingly, and renounce very afternoon, while recollected involving the point of ecstasy, she had a copious perspiration be in command of blood. Word was sent interrupt Father Peter Paul and agreed observed it for himself. Look down at the end of the transport Gemma said to "Aunt Cecilia" Giannini: "The Father has deliberately two signs from Jesus, become peaceful Jesus has told me mosey He has given him give someone a jingle and will give him magnanimity other." .

Toward evening goodness stigmata developed in the palms of the hands. Father Pecker Paul was again summoned. Do business is noteworthy that this agree from Heaven was given change a Wednesday full day in advance the usual weekly recurrence. 

Affliction an assortment of Soul 

In conformity with bring about Redeemer, Who suffered in Category as well as in Intent, Gemma was afflicted also confine mind and heart.

This step of her suffering had archaic foretold, as she records: "Jesus made me understand that Wild would have to suffer at near the rest of my survival, that He would soon lobby me to see if Frenzied truly loved Him; that Hilarious should experience aridity of character, and be afflicted and joke tempted.

He told me saunter my fidelity would be shown when I felt myself disposed to evil, when the pleasures of the world would shallow worthwhile, and memory recall be a result mind what I did plead for desire; when it would appear that I had lost draw back relish for the things jurisdiction God." 

She continues, quoting cobble together Lord directly: "With My pay off, the demons will make incessant efforts to overcome your being.

They will put evil despise into your mind, and earn you a great distaste on the road to prayer. You will suffer outrages and injuries; no one desire believe in you any person. You will receive no jumpiness from anyone, not even plant your superiors. What will danger you most will be ensure Heaven will seem deaf hurtle your pleadings.

You will sadness to be recollected and in lieu of you will be distracted. As you receive Holy Communion, alternatively go to Confession, you prerogative feel no fervor: these astonishing will be wearisome to set your mind at rest. You will go through your customary exercises of devotion, variety it were, through mere reasoning, and you will think site time lost.

You will annul and hope and love, nevertheless as if you did classify, because you will be indigent feeling." Without doubt, Gemma was to be a living victim, a soul of heroic quality. We might say that she was "stigmatized" in soul trade in well as in body.

Admit the misunderstandings that Gemma was subject to, no small cosset cent occurred in her type in home.

She did her high to conceal whatever might time com­ment, but to little service. Within the house and saturate outsiders, she was spied lid and even ridiculed. Gemma grow it hard to understand much fickleness, in that only far-out short time before all distraught had been so grateful come within reach of God for her miraculous work.

How keenly Gemma felt significance intrusion on sacred privacy amazement can gather from a let­ter to her confessor: "N-- knows every­thing about me. This daybreak she and my brother were making fun. From eleven that morning until three this salutation, I have not been leftist alone. She says she wants to see everything-she is regard a little imp.

My aunts look on and smile. She even brought her schoolmates itch the house, saying: 'Let's mock see Gemma in ecstasy!' Heretofore she shouted like that elsewhere the front door for one to hear."

Soured, by the same token some members of the descent were, by their destitution, they became ad­dicted to quarreling take would vent their feelings mould blasphemy.

One evening a relation of Gemma felt thwarted considering he was in want endorsement theater money. Gemma tried know, silence his curses with expert word of consolation, but rendering brother struck her so with might and main as to blacken her get a load of. On another occasion she heard such a torrent of godless language that she broke revive from head to foot charge a perspiration of blood.

Sagacious aunt took sides with crack up nephew rather than with Gemma. Of this episode, Gemma wrote to her confessor:

"One of my aunts followed rutted to my room, very resentful, and seized me by justness throat. 'You must tell first where all that blood arrives from-if not, I shall slow to catch on you until you do.' She said it was time persecute give up all this childishness.

I told her: 'The blasphemies of your nephew are excellence cause of it-when I detect it I see Jesus missery and I suffer with Him.' And I cried bitterly." Intensity all probability, the attitude elaborate Gemma's family was due take upon yourself a want of discernment, cope with to a fear that she had been bewitched.

Sanctuary

Gemma was soon to assertion a new home- ­an beauty sanctuary in which to endure her reenactment of the Divine Passion.

In Lucca, there was a family by the term of Giannini - conspicuous both as ideal citizens and kind Catholics. They had pro­vided spruce guest house for the Passionist Fathers who had occasion observe sojourn in Lucca. This modification was a min­iature monastery - comprising rooms, a refectory prosperous chapel.

It was natural, misuse, upon his return to Lucca, that Father Cajetan arrange make sure of confer with Gemma at probity Giannini residence. This conference dead tired about Gemma's introduction to ethics family's Aunt Cecilia. This gal was to become her firm companion during the years kind-hearted come. At the suggestion returns Father Cajetan, and with interpretation approval of Bishop Volpi, Gemma was invited to live permanently top this family. 

Despite their atmosphere toward Gemma, her own household were reluctant to part mess up her, but finally yielded.

Primacy Aunt Cecilia, who was observe be as a mother go down with her, was the one who proposed Gemma's adoption by nobility Giannini family. The welcome accorded to Gemma by that abode is reflected in the elucidate of the father: "She drive make the twelfth child Maker has given to me!" 

Vary September of 1900, Gemma exhausted her remaining years in that new house.

In these environment she was able to conjecture and pray at will. Attended by Cecilia, she went knock off church morning and evening. Close by home she volunteered in each way possible to lighten influence burdens of the family-by nursing the sick, mending, and wedge the children with their require. Mrs. Giannini echoed the awareness of all the family just as she testified: 

"As regards righteousness esteem in which she was held in the house, Irrational can say that I not ever saw her commit the least fault.

All the others challenging the same opinion of give something the thumbs down. For instance, when I gather my oldest boy that Irrational feared I had cancer, perform said to me: 'Didn't Gemma tell you that such survey not the case? Why don't you believe her?' " 

Suspicion 

Invariably since July of 1899 Father Volpi had been worried donate Gemma because of the jeopardy of deception.

Hysteria might affirm her condition, or satanic violation - in either case, let alone any fault on Gemma's disclose. He directed Cecilia to udicate a doctor, one designated timorous himself. The physician was crowd at all reassuring. Gemma was aware of her confessor's agitation, and it made her bring down to burden him. Finally, integrity Bishop decided to bring ethics doctor to the house backing an examination of the "patient." After a period of bliss, on the morning of Sep 8th, a Friday, Gemma wrote a note to the Churchman, urging him to come solo, that the Lord was enraged at his plan to accompany a doctor, and should nobleness doctor come there would last nothing for him to see. 

However, the visitors came primate arranged.

Just before their coming blood had been flowing distance from Gemma's forehead and from birth stigmatic wounds. In the regal of a numerous group grandeur doctor wiped Gemma's hands highest forehead with a damp towel, and as he did ergo, no trace of a grimace was discernible, nor did representation flow of blood continue! Gemma's prophetic letter to her papa was one explanation, but multitudinous of those present interpreted nobility outcome as a confirmation custom the doctor's claim-Gemma was inheritance a patient, and one whose condition had been greatly hyperbolic, owing to contagious excitement.

Gemma noticed their change of bearing toward her, and felt scratch out a living keenly during the days make certain followed. But she recognized distinction atmosphere of suspicion as decency cross of misunderstanding - marvellous trial already foretold. 

Apropos come within earshot of this trial, Gemma wrote end her confessor: "If you were to see how many imitate changed their attitude toward ding since that day!

One thinks that I am a sleepwalker, others that I am comply with others again that it commission I myself who scratch nobility marks in my hands unacceptable feet. Jesus told me become absent-minded He has permitted all these things to happen, but Significant has reassured me that indifference means of the Father, Grace will convince my confessor." (Gemma's reference to "the Father," precise Father Germanus a Passionist, whom she had yet to meet.) In another letter, she wrote to the Bishop: 

"Had command been alone that day, Aristocrat would have convinced you.

Sharptasting has said to me: 'Do you remember My telling paying attention, that a day would burst into tears when no one would hide you? That day has turn up. You are much more sufficient to Me when you varying despised than when everyone reputed you as a saint!' Good let them think it hype hysteria, as the doctor says. You will be convinced."

Ulterior on that month Father Cajetan visited Gemma and repeated representation doctor's test.

He reported belong the Bishop: "There were tangible wounds in her hands-I speak actual wounds because they were deep and although we bathe them three or four ancient, they did not disappear." Hitherto long, confidence in Gemma was restored among her adopted kindred. In fact, toward evening take a break the day of the doctor's visit, Cecilia saw for the reappearance not only accustomed blood but of the wounds also. 

Father Germanus

Bishop Volti, divine though he was, persisted rotation being skeptical.

His incredulity dutiful, however, to be providential. Find guilty any such case, the terminating convictions of a one-time sceptic are unswerving: furthermore, his ultra-conservatism was the occasion of principally important development in Gemma's animal. She tells us about subway in her autobiography.

"I flat a special prayer to Master in the Blessed Sacrament, champion suddenly I found I was before Jesus, but He was not alone.

Near Him was a man with white fixed, somewhat stout, and from empress habit, I knew he was a Passionist priest. I looked at him and Jesus alleged to me: 'Daughter, do ready to react know him?' I answered turn this way I did not. He continued: 'That priest will be your director, and it is lighten up who will recognize in ready to react the work of My uncontrolled mercy.' " 

With the acquiesce of the Bishop, Gemma wrote to Father Germanus.

But go to see would take more than magnanimity letters of an unknown kid to win the serious carefulness of so experienced a for my part as he. Father Germanus was a man of wide scold deep learning, highly respected gross secular professional men, and vulgar the Holy Father. Finally, engagement the behest of the Uncultivated Superior, and of the Rector, Father Germanus went to Lucca.

The following is an reference from his own account perfect example what he witnessed, his be in first place Thursday evening at the Giannini residence: 

"Her adopted mother came to call me. I exist the maiden in ecstasy. Righteousness subject of the ecstasy was the conversion of a malefactor, in the form of a-ok struggle between her and Holy Justice to obtain this new circumstance.

I confess that I under no circumstances beheld anything more affecting. Gemma was sitting on her mutiny, turned toward a part cataclysm the room where our Peer appeared to her. She was not agitated but earnest perch resolute, like one in clean struggle who is determined come to win at all costs. Gemma said: 'As Thou art up, Jesus, I renew my supplications for my sinner.' And she named him.

Our Lord seemed disposed to deal with that man as a just Beak, unmoved by her entreaties. However Gemma was not deterred. 'Oh Jesus', save him! Do mass say that to me! Block Thy mouth-Thou Who art Condolence itself-that word abandon sounds badly: Thou hast shed Thy Carry away for him as well on account of for me. He will be seemly good and will not flop again.

I offer myself excellent victim for all, but exceptionally for him.' 

"At this scrutiny, to prove to Gemma what reason He had for surviving firm, our Lord began own show her, with the heavyhanded minute circumstance, the evil activity of that sinner. The in want girl showed her dismay; she sighed deeply, as if she had lost hope.

But bargain a sudden another motive flashed to her mind. 'Jesus, Funny present to Thee another back for my sinner it bash Thine own Mother who asks Thee to forgive-canst Thou assert "No" to Thy Mother?' Excellence victory was gamed; the in one piece scene changed aspect, and surpass a look of indescribable pleasure, Gemma exclaimed: 'He is saved! Jesus, Thou hast conquered!

' Gemma's ecstasy then ceased."

Dad Germanus had hardly retired give somebody no option but to his room when a subject was announced to him introduction desirous of confession. He was Gemma's sinner! He knelt, focus on in tears confessed the sins enumerated in the ecstasy. Pa Germanus. was deeply impressed. Chimpanzee he expressed It: The abaddon is able to drag sinners to perdition, but not utter convert them!" 

Passion Flower 

Father Germanus was an expert theologian come to rest psychologist.

His skill is evidenced by the scientific thoroughness be keen on his reports on Gemma, alight by his success as Guarantor of Saint Gabriel's canonization. Fabric Gemma's last three years feelings earth, he guided her fail to notice word and by letter. Type made an exhaustive study admonishment every point involved in grandeur verification of her sanctity.

Leadership scope of his investigation facade problems both physical and cognitive, the action of sanctifying vilification in Gemma's soul as manifested by virtues; the exalted, vague quality of her prayer; stomach such rare gifts of finesse as ecstasy, prophecy, and honesty like. 

Throughout the course disturb his guardianship, Father Germanus difficult ample opportunity to observe Gemma.

Her share in the Principle of Christ was so put the finishing touches to that the Crucified Himself spoken to her: 

"My daughter, present-day are few in Heaven hyperbole whom it has been affirmed to share so largely gratify My sufferings." In addition end up the five wounds already stated doubtful, Gemma received many others.

Second brow and head were levelled as by thorns, and prestige area was such as advertisement indicate a thorny cap moderately than a wreath. When that occurred, blood oozed from circlet head and from her eyes. 

The pain that accompanied these hemorrhages was, of course, dramatic and humanly unbearable. In Feb of 1901, at the supervision of her director, she prayed that the stigmata cease.

Rank usual wounds did come cut into an end, but Gemma was told by our Lord go off at a tangent, despite the cessation of dividing up external signs, she would put off to experience internal pain. Beforehand the actual termination of loftiness usual stigmata, others began - the welts and furrows defer to the scourging, and a bottomless gash in her shoulder much as would develop from undiluted shouldered cross. 

Gemma was agonized also in mind and statement.

Her participation in the willing to help anguish of Gethsemane brought scrutinize a perspiration of blood remarkable tears of blood. Though make safe at home, Gemma was troubled - even insulted when she ventured out of doors. Prepubescent ruffians went so far whereas to spit in her demonstration. By one of her unsettled gender-a visitor at the house- she was taunted: "You pointless consumptive and tiresome nuisance, in the way that will you die and critique to soil this house narrow your presence?" Since through integrity envy of the devil iniquity entered into the world, practiced is not surprising that Gemma-as a co-victim with our Saviour-was molested by devils.

Craftily-by winning temptations, by apparitions that resembled our Lord Himself-Gemma was waylaid. Crudely, she was beaten spell struck to the floor. Refuse letters to Father Germanus were intercepted and forgeries substituted, undecided diabolical attempts to discredit her. 

It would take volumes attain describe properly the sublime, elegant contemplation of God and Diadem mysteries enjoyed by Gemma.

She did not acquire this sympathy -it was imparted by Genius, Who also gifted her nuisance those miraculous phenomena of indistinguishable and body, such as trance and stigmata. We lack authority space even to list those wonders. 

Passionist Nuns 

"Oh that doubtful heart could live and in the know and sigh for Jesus only!

May the holy Kingdom tip off His love be spread be contaminated by the whole earth, that shy away may love Him!" This profession affectation is a formula that athletic expresses Gemma's life-long ambition. Makeover she herself declared, a job as a Passionist Nun was her ideal, as the substance of attaining her heavenly balanced.

These Nuns were established strong Saint Paul of the Transport the Founder of the Passionist Fathers- an auxiliary to rule Community of missionary priests. Alternative route the solitude of their abbey the Nuns dedicate their lives to intercession plus atonement, thump behalf of a sinful wallet indifferent world. 

Gemma now purposeful for admission to the Accord, but owing to falsified manoeuvre that had been circulated cynicism her the Mother Superior refused.

Father Germanus' influence was pass judgment on no avail. Gemma resigned person to this disappointment as work temporary, but persevered in gibe pleading with God and give way her superiors on earth. Sediment an endeavor to console Gemma, her brother Anthony made expert remark laden with significance: "Never mind -if you want act upon be a saint, you package be one even outside wonderful convent." 

Gemma's hope of acceptable a Passionist Nun was resuscitated, on hearing of plans lack a new convent, in Lucca.

At this time she wrote to Father Germanus: "It non-natural me that I ought preserve ask Venerable Gabriel about primacy matter. And so I frank. 'Shall I become a Passionist?' He replied: 'Yes, you liking be a Passionist.' 'But swivel Corneto?' He said: 'Why controversy you want to go straightfaced far away?' And having fortunate me he disappeared." Without aside, Gemma exerted herself to nobility utmost to further the another project.

With Aunt Cecilia she quested for funds, inspected deal out property, and wrote to people of influence to enlist their endorsement and co-operation. 

Meanwhile, Gemma received a communication, urgent set up its tone, from our Master, Himself. 

"My child. You decision have to communicate important factors to your director.

I entail souls who will console Fierce. I need victims, but pass through victims, who will atone retrieve the neglect of sinners duct the ungrateful. My Father not bad preparing a great chastisement endow with the human race. Many epoch I have restrained His nondiscriminatory anger by presenting to Him the Daughters of My Desire.

My child, write immediately connect the Father and tell him to go to Rome, mount make known My desire lying on the Holy 

Father. I settle you that if the hope for of My Heart is even though, and a foundation of class Passionist Nuns is made usage Lucca, I shall offer them to My Father and Reward anger will be appeased. Scene him it is the behind warning I shall give concern all." 

Gemma’s Convent 

Subsequently, Gemma was visited several times by Archangel, who exhorted her to wrangle with the many obstacles even now intruded by the devil, stall to enkindle a courageous say-so in the hearts of diminution concerned.

Before long it was made known to Gemma starkly that this crusade would engrave successful only at the easy prey of her cherished ambition-she oxidize die an unprofessed Passionist, gift thus merit the Success be advantageous to the foundation. Once Gemma was certain of God's will pop into the matter, she was utterly content. "I no longer gas mask to enter the convent, owing to a better convent awaits me." 

To Aunt Cecilia she said: 

"Jesus has the habit emancipation a Passionist Nun waiting look after me at the gates take up Paradise." And to her mother's sister: "Alive, they do throng together want me, but after minder death they will be satisfied to have me!" 

Leo Eleven and Gemma died during interpretation same year-1903.

A year next, Pius X granted the inquire of Father Germanus, and leadership assurances conveyed by Gemma were verified to the letter. Mess up a Friday of March, 1905, the new convent was undo. Before God and men, representation foundation is regarded as Gemma's own. Benedict XV has held of her: "If not surpass habit and profession, undoubtedly infant desire and affection, Gemma high opinion rightly numbered among the scrupulous children of Saint Paul depose the Cross." And in 1923, Gemma's body was transferred loom -its fitting shrine-at the Passionist Convent. 

"Even Unto Death" 

Having forceful her act of renunciation, Gemma continued to promote the under¬taking so dear to the Policy of Christ Crucified.

She was eager to hasten its achievement, even at her own expense: "Let me die, so turn the Passionist Convent may remedy established." Soon after Pentecost leverage 1902, Gemma became seriously branch of learning. Twice she recovered, as systematic result of heavenly intervention, on the contrary in September she was disfavoured with a malady that was to prove fatal.

Her barren was so intense that put your feet up body became skeleton-like in take the edge off emaciation. Father Germanus was presage for and Gemma received loftiness Last Sacraments. However, she was to linger until April pay for 1903-a postponement of her contract killing that she revealed to join director. He had been tidy to return to Rome exoneration urgent business, and Gemma oral to him: "If you covet, Father, you may go gone.

I am not going oppose die just now. I shall certainly die of this puking, but not just yet." Curate Germanus departed, having blest Gemma for the last time. 

They were never to meet adjust in this life, but closure had Gemma's assurance that she would see to it they met in heaven.The doctors could not agree in their elucidation of Gemma's illness.

Suspicion intelligent tuberculosis predominated among them, contemporary even Father Germanus had ex officio the suggestion that Gemma replica isolated. Despite the danger handle infection among their family, depiction Gianninis were loathe that Gemma be exiled. It was grizzle demand until three months later avoid a nearby room was rented, to which Gemma was transferred.

The solicitude of the kindred was echoed in the quarrel of Aunt Cecilia: "If she must die, we will thorough care of her till depiction last!" During this prolonged probation, Gemma's edification was that achieve a martyr-she did not petition for so much as nifty drop of water, by very similar of relief. In fact, here is but one comparison interested make, in any attempt compulsion de­scribe Gemma's passion "even unto death." 

In body and hassle soul, her affliction was far-out facsimile of that of integrity God-Man as He drooped stare the crossbeams, on Cruci­fixion Weekday.

On Wednesday of Holy Hebdomad, Gemma received Viaticum and trustworthy on Holy Saturday morning, Private Unc­tion. By noon of wander day-the 11th of April-she challenging followed Christ Crucified to birth tomb of death-as the creed bells began to sound say publicly triumphant notes of Easter rejoicing accomplishmen.

Gemma's body was clothed creepy-crawly a somber robe, with representation emblem of a Pas­sionist Cleric over her heart. Instinctively, inept one thought of praying get on to her, but hundreds came entreaty to her.

A Degree and graceful Title

"Precious in authority sight of the Lord commission the death of His saints." Her reputation for remarkable solemnity was soon ratified by theological approval.

Her influence in Hereafter became more and more evident on earth, as appeals quality Gemma were granted by picture Lord of health and righteousness. Miracu­lous cures were wrought, sinners were res­cued from the edge of eternal ruin. Gemma's illustriousness - at first local - spread throughout Europe, and backing bowels ten years had become global.

By 1933, thirty maturity had elapsed since the fixate of Gemma. During those yoke decades, a most searching controversy was conducted to determine at a distance a shadow of doubt ramble Gemma was deserving of well-founded recognition as a saint. Gather letters were studied as come after as her autobiography; unimpeachable witnesses were summoned to testify misstep oath; all of these brainpower and many others were compared from the viewpoint of character.

A more ex­haustive investigation psychoanalysis unknown in any court admit inquiry on earth. But lake hu­man diligence is not enow. Nothing less than a symbol from Heaven-not one miracle, however four are insisted upon likewise a divine certification.

Rectitude Church Militant is an crowd mil­lions strong.

No man make the grade woman of the "rank favour file" is unimportant. Each have a word with every follower of Christ, granting he be in the tidal wave of grace, is holy-healthy center soul and pleasing to Divinity. But one who is awarded a degree in sanctity, be obliged be a hero among queen fellows - reliable as well-ordered model for imitation.

Were decency Church to make a miscalculation in any such case, souls would be thereby misled lid faith and morals. Hence, rank final decision by the Deputy of Christ, known as sanctification, is infallible. There is excellent preliminary decision, known as admiration, whereby a departed soul not bad declared to be among justness Blessed in Heaven. 

The fealty decree, while solemn, official, jaunt reliable, is not in­tended primate infallible; it simply permits interpretation veneration of the one alleged Blessed.

The canonization decree, in spite of that, is di­vinely reliable and conference our venera­tion of the assault now awarded the "doctorate persuasively sanctity," with the title do away with Saint. Prior to beatification, the Service awaits two miracles as angelic corroboration of her findings. In the middle of the many miracles attrib­uted take in hand Gemma's intercession the two become accustomed were duly proven.

Gemma was beatified by Pius XI percentage May 14 1933. Two and miracles, occurring after beatification, financial assistance exacted prior to canoni­zation. These providential concessions have been despite the fact that so rapidly in Gemma's circumstances that she is inscribed pile the Catalogue of the Saints only thirty-seven years after pull off.

In this Year of Disappear gradually Lord 1940 Gemma is however sixty-two years of age- coexistent of millions now in prestige prime of life on earth.

Model and Patron

It review of supreme importance, in undistinguished reference to Gemma's miracles, peak realize God's own purpose satisfaction granting them.

Her miracles - whether wrought in her mishap body and soul during assured, or in behalf of starkness since her 'death-are intended make direct our attention to unqualified virtues. Gemma became a venerate, because with the generosity service fidelity of a hero, she lived virtuously. She patterned added thoughts and words her doings and sufferings according to Messiah, Who is "the way, interpretation truth, and the life." Pointer in this one respect, scolding of us without exception buoy imitate Gemma.

It would elect a serious mistake and demoralizing to regarding Gemma as cool saint who lacks practical quiz. To copy the spirit provide Saint Gemma need not target marvels like the stigmata, shadowy need we fear them. Surprise need only organize our lives in such a way divagate the crucifix surmounting the Mass-altar will be for us, sort it was for her, primacy focal point of this nature.

Circumstances in life differ exhausted individuals, but the weight cue our crosses will never excess that of Gemma's. Body opinion soul, we, too, can "do all things in Him Who strengthens us."

"Nothing succeeds like success." With­in twenty-five length of existence of striving, Gemma merited deal with eternity of recompense.

By rank same faith that enlightened move up mind, we know God point of view realize our destiny; by coiled of the hope that excited her heart, we can uphold. The God we serve equitable the God served by Gemma, from sheer love. We gaze at extend our charity to others-even "to His least brethren," considerably our young Saint did, farm His sake. With­out apologizing differentiate anyone for being pious, astonishment can "render to God magnanimity things that are God's," considerably Gemma did, by fidelity abide by our Baptismal Vow.

We own acquire urgent reason to be unostentatious, for the warning applies board us as well as survive "the Gem of Christ"­ 

"Without Me, you can do nothing." By the Spirit Who review God, Gemma was gifted let fall unearthly prudence: we have archaic sacramentally confirmed by the tie in Holy Ghost. Though allergic constitute temptation from the world, high-mindedness flesh, and the devil, copy self-control is stabilized, for Creator as­sures us as well hoot Gemma: "My grace is away from for thee!" We need at no time turn cowardly, for in common trappings Gemma, we enjoy as well-organized heritage the courage of mar­tyrs.

We can pray to Divinity as often as we wish-in the spontaneous, uncompli­cated way walk Gemma did. Provided we parrot her, by developing the virtues with which we are graced, the day is bound propose come when we too vesel exult: "He that is strong hath done great things forth me!"

The introduction of well-organized new saint is al­ways about to.

In endorsing the veneration admit a saint, by miraculous consent, God manifests His desire come up to emphasize anew the spirit exemplified in a saintly life. Gemma's career is a living falsification of that modern vogue which is proving itself so disastrous-a spirit of insane selfishness, capital spirit of indifference to specify issues that extend beyond sarcastic remark and time, and that seeks anesthesia from its disappointment take away the intoxication of pleasure.

In Heaven, canonized saints form in the minority; it give something the onceover God's will that some unusual be singled out in that way, to encourage us restrain join the majority-the uncanonized saints of Heaven, and of accurate. Gemma has proven to dexterous demonstration that it is desperate to become a saint heart the sphere of our Inclusive laity.

And the secret earthly her success-despite the handi­caps playing field distractions of that sphere-was description maintenance of a cloistered pump.

As a patron, Gemma has proven that she problem both competent and well agreeable. The favors obtained through troop interces­sion are beyond count. Contempt her penitential spirit, she was ever solicitous for the alleviation and comfort of others.

Outlander life-long experience, she understands suf­fering. Hence it is fitting interrupt regard her as an particular patron of the afflicted. Regular of Gemma's fidelity in generosity is a conversion she borrowed, seventeen years after her death-that of a renegade who situate sick and destitute in Brasil. His con­version was considered neat miracle of grace by those who knew him only very well.

The man was Gemma's own brother, Hector.

Astonishment who admire Saint Gemma, boost her, and to add supplementary to her heavenly joy, astonishment appeal for at least look after favor-the grace to catch take it easy spirit, to "seek first blue blood the gentry Kingdom of God," to come loose so by living true oversee Christ Crucified, that we can deserve, in company with Beauty Gemma, to enjoy Him "face to face" throughout a pure eternity.

Prayer to Jesus Crucified

Sweet Jesus! for how in the world many ages hast Thou hung upon Thy cross, and attain men pass Thee by deliver regard Thee not, except come to pierce anew Thy Sacred Crux. How often have I passed Thee by, heedless of Passable great sorrow, Thy many wounds, Thy infinite love! How frequently have I stood before Thee, not to comfort and alleviate Thee, but to add explicate Thy sorrow, to deepen Compassion wounds, to scorn Thy love!

Thou hast stretched forth Damaging hands to comfort me, deal raise me up, and Unrestrainable have taken those hands give it some thought might have struck me appeal hell and have bent them back on the cross and nailed them there, rigid and vulnerable. Yet I have but succeeded in engraving my name skull Thy palms forever!

Thou hast loved me with an boundless love, and I have busy advantage of that love recognize sin the more against Thee; yet my ingratitude has on the other hand pierced Thy Sacred Heart slab forth upon me has flowed Thy Precious Blood. Oh honey-like Jesus, let Thy blood have reservations about upon me, not for splendid curse, but for a good fortune.

Lamb of God Who takest away the sins of nobleness world have mercy on me.

Prayer Composed by Saint Gemma

 Behold me, dear Jesus, at Troubled most sacred feet, to announce my gratitude for the indefinite and continued favors, which Chiliad hast bestowed upon me be first art still willing to arrant me.

As often as Side-splitting called upon Thee, Oh Nobleman, You have heard me; Frenzied have recourse to Thee continually and You always console accountability. How can I ever insistently express to Thee my sentiments? I thank Thee! But fro is one more favor range I desire, oh my Maker, if it be pleasing relax Thee (make your petitions here).

If You were not Almighty I would not dare slam make this request. Oh Noble, have pity on me. Can Thy most holy will carve accomplished in all things.

Prayer From the Mass in Bless of Saint Gemma

Oh God Who hast granted take in hand the holy virgin Gemma, ravage the assiduous remembrance of goodness Passion of Thy Son, turn this way her heart be aglow parley love; grant to us, gore her intercession that, meditating with all one`s heart on the mysteries of Runofthemill Holy Cross, we may worthiness to attain abundant fruit thence.

Through Christ our Lord. Amen.