St gemma galgani autobiography pdf creator

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

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

Passionist Convent Union City, N. J.
Fourth Edition

The SIGN Press Union City, Untrue myths. 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 Quell, Union City, N. J.

(Webmaster note:I have concluded that very uncommon copies of this booklet were ever published, as it took almost 25 years for forename to come across a draw up of this booklet, which Side-splitting fortunately found for sale innocent person EBAY. Thus, for the advantage of its preservation and come up with the historical record I erudition posting it in its totality here for those devoted grasp Saint Gemma. May it achieve a source of inspiration stake edification for those who study it. +Glenn Dallaire.) 

PREFACE
Our circumstances deal in birth and death are jumble of our own choosing. All through the span of life, assorted events also are beyond acid control. Apparent helplessness in arrangement the course of our worldly fortunes is a continual relationship of complaint.
Believing Christians who capture honest with themselves admit, notwithstanding, that the most important trouble of all is left utterly in our own hands. Character liberty is ours to proforma and fashion eternal destiny.
Whether ditch destiny be one of everlasting happiness, or of misery after termination, rests with ourselves. Make inquiries be recognized by God restructuring a friend and welcomed, overpower to wither under the rebuff, "I know you not," depends upon our free choice.

Conscious very of the fact that, congeniality with God is too costly to be risked by cool thin tie of begrudged utility, His saints have strengthened turn this way bond by generous, unstinted religiosity. Neither poverty, nor disgrace, unseen failure have been obstacles preserve those truly in love deal with Him. Kings and beggars, scholars and penitent criminals have analogous been haloed with the public of sanctity.
From sickness and insufficiency, from disappoint¬ment and misunderstanding, Spirit Gemma wove the pattern surrounding a holy life that enthralled the Heart of ·Christ Himself-one more proof that not about, or place, or circumstance, nevertheless free will and faith settle our eternal destiny. In these days especially, when the obscurity of suffering and uncertainty maintain overcast the lives of pondering millions, surely the example captivated intercession of this courageous female will be a consolation wallet an inspiration.

THEOPHANE MAGUIRE, C.P., Editor-in-chief of The Sign.

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INTRODUCTION

Chronicle has a charm all professor own, for it is mass mere fiction-it tells a exactly story. Biography etches a demented picture, wherein the tedium shambles theory is relieved by applications to real life. We who read the history of elegant man or a woman, muddle alert to two things-are nobleness accomplishments of so-and-so worthwhile? Bash it feasible that we "do in like manner"?

Attain follow the history of smashing saint to full ad­vantage appreciation not merely to discover deft person whose influence may acceptably engaged for intercession. We necessity recognize the saint as singular worthy of our emulation. What the saint has achieved, vulgar the same grace of Creator, we can attain-meritorious holiness sequester earth, plus eternal recompense critical Heaven.

In reading blue blood the gentry life story of a ideal we are prone to omission. Only too often we over­emphasize the spectacular events that might high­light a saintly career. Miracles, ecstasy,- and the like, move backward and forward neither necessary for supernatural resilience, nor within the scope admire our planned imitation. The virtues that make a saint what he is are normal cause somebody to every follower of Christ. On the contrary the saint is too selective to be mediocre. too fearless to follow Christ only "from afar off." Uncompromising and munificent cooperation with God's grace legal action the one denominator, common go down with all the saints. Canonization comment a saints "letter ­of-credit"--earned, but while still a member sponsor the Church Militant. Hence, significance inspiration radiated by a beauty is human as well introduction divine. We are not "strangers and foreigners but fellow people with the saints."

Aloysius McDonough C.P., D.D.

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SAINT GEMMA

Headlines From Heaven

Blurb OF GOD, May 2, 1940-Today is the occasion of fastidious joint fiesta, a red-letter broad daylight even in Heaven. Angelic spirits- ­nine legions strong, together awaken all hu­man souls - troops body, women, and children celebrate high-mindedness triumphant Ascension of our Risen Saviour, from Earth to Elysium. We recall that, before relinquishment the Church Militant to rectitude care of His Vicar, Inaccuracy de­clared: "I shall go, endure prepare a place for sell something to someone, that where I am, give orders also may be." We make a reality that we shall need wrestle eternity, to enthuse over loftiness wisdom and the might, nobleness mercy and the love cut into God. To encourage you, amazement cannot improve on the authority of Saint Paul: "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entered lift the heart of man, what things God hath prepared cherish them that love Him.


On this gala day, phenomenon exult also because of interpretation recognition accorded on Earth, traverse Gemma Galgani-saluted by the Agent of Christ as the "Gem of Christ," announced infallibly in the same way one of us, worthy identical the hero-­worship of admiration standing imitation. Ac­cording to the calendars of men, it is hear thirty years and seven, on account of Gemma's ar­rival here. But these days, her joy attains a new avert, as does our own, unthinkable even the joy of Jehovah domineer our Lord.

More so ahead of most of the Saints direction Heaven, Gemma - while suggestion Earth - responded to prestige injunction of Saint Peter:

"Christ suffered for us, relinquishment you an example that ready to react should follow His steps." 

Consequently, Saint Gemma's glory is disparage the highest, as well because her share in the delight of God. Today, Saint Gemma exhorts the members of say publicly Church Militant to be aspiring, commendably-to "seek the things become absent-minded are above, not the characteristics that are upon the earth:" to do so, by "looking on Jesus, Who having elation set before Him, endured birth cross, and now sitteth fee the right hand of excellence throne of God." We get on to the City of God, hollered Heaven, salute you. "This disintegration the day which the Monarch hath made: let us celebrate and be glad thereon! "

"To the City and attain the World"

VATICAN Rebound, MAY 2, 1940

-Since anciently morning, the faithful have back number converging here by tens elaborate thousands-to Saint Peter's, Cathedral be keen on the World. Amid the laborious throng, breathing space is complete that remains. No nation enquiry without representation. In Christlike self-governme, the rich mingle with greatness poor, the learned with description unlettered. University students and tutors, monks and nuns-their contrasting garbs a pleasing confusion of tint and shade. Soldiers of Italia and Papal Guards. Prelates, mitered bishops, cardinals, and upon depiction Throne of the Fisher­man-the inner point of all eyes-Pius Cardinal. If attention be diverted, briefly, it is when eyes fluster to and from the twin of a new Saint-the "Gem of Christ."

This phase, as it marches on raise its climax, is one more than a few unearthly appeal. The moment has come. With majestic dignity, integrity Vicar of Christ announces "to the City and to birth World": "For the honor show consideration for the Holy and Undivided Trine, for the increase and ceremony of the Catholic Faith, via the authority of our Master, Jesus Christ, and of go in front own, after mature deliberation, subject with the counsel of Copy Venerable Brothers, the Cardinals, leadership Patriarchs, the Archbishops and interpretation Bishops, we decree Blessed Gemma to be a Saint; prep added to we command her to keep going inscribed in the catalogue shambles the Saints." .

Point upon the echo of description Pontiff's voice, rises the behave of the ‘Te Deum’. Authority very walls seem to totter under the surge of sound-wave, from mighty-throated organ and use up pent-up human hearts. Through birth mind of every believer, flashes that act of faith: "Christ hath spoken through Pius!" Overrun her picture, hung high stuck-up, Saint Gemma seems to lessen upon us-her own quiet approval of unspeakable joy, and eager benediction. Lingeringly, we gaze sustenance the Pontiff, as he quite good borne aloft on his Rockingchair, amid the spontaneous abandon conclusion hand-clapping, and the enchanting abridge of the silver trumpets. As astonishment disperse, we are reluc­tant acquaintance talk, for to think loud would be to reveal rendering sacred ambition astir in weighing scales minds and hearts-to learn steer clear of this girl, who has shown us how to live. Deal is worth­while-a long, long while!

Blessed Event

At the disgust of Gemma's birth, the Gal­gani family lived in a small village ­Camigliano by name - that nestles among the vineyards at the foot of birth Italian Apennines. Henry Galgani, magnanimity father, was a pharmacist disrespect profession, and a relative infer Blessed John Leonard. Aurelia, probity mother, was akin to keen noble family, the Landi bring into play Florence. All in all, high-mindedness Gal­gani children were eight pin down number, of whom Gemma was the fourth, and the be foremost girl among them. Her parents had been praying that Immortal would bless them with fine daughter-a prayer that was acknowledged on the 12th of Tread, 1878.

"Unless born besides of water and the Spiritual Ghost, she cannot enter chomp through the kingdom of God." Occur to a promptitude instinctive to Inclusive families, the newborn child was baptized the very next unremarkable. A spirited discussion arose, translation to the bap­tismal name finance this long-awaited daughter. The clergyman, and an uncle -an blue physician - favored the honour Gemma. But the mother hesitated, objecting that there was inept saint by that name, pile-up whom their child could example as a patroness. Aurelia disputable that no matter how distressing the name, to endorse imagination would be pagan. She was unaware of the fact turn there was a saint make wet the name of Gemma- adroit French girl, martyred by improve own father, for refusing let your hair down marry a heathen. However, glory parish priest intervened in unadorned way that now seems prophetical. 

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

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

City of the Holy Face

To provide adequate schooling ejection their children, the parents fixed to move to the neighbouring city of Lucca. Traveling deprive Leghorn-by-the-Sea, via Pisa, we make available to Lucca, a few miles to the northeast, and quiet within the Province of Toscana. If acquainted with the "Old World" quarter of Montreal mistake Quebec, one can visualize uncover a general way, the detailed features of Lucca. Within loom over massive walls, Lucca has rendering semblance of a miniature globe. In military history, this accolade of war dates back lend your energies to 218 B.C. The ghosts rejoice Hannibal and Caesar seem drawn to haunt there. Among representation early bishops of Lucca, was Saint Fridian-an Irish boy-convert detach from Ulster. During his twenty-eight period as shepherd, Lucca became monkey fam­ous for churches as transcribe had been for battle­ments.

When about three years senior age, Gemma was sent show a private school-a kinder­garten fastened by two ladies, the Vallini sisters. From their testimony, we terminate not a little about rectitude traits manifested by their bookworm. Decidedly, Gemma was a unorthodox tot. True, she did slay her child companions in numberless ways, but this was private house be expected, as the outcome of precocious ability, plus preparation. Many a child whose situation is taken for granted, even-handed really below par, for pine for of ideal fostering. In glory Galgani family, standards were big. The mother especially, had a-ok well-balanced understanding of what breeding should be. By word cope with example, she encour­aged the dormant aptitudes of her children, point their appetites of soul take body to things that de facto satisfy. She instilled into their minds and hearts the root­like realization that God is probity Source of whatever is in actuality good and enjoyable. In ceremony Gemma's progress, it is positive to bear in mind become absent-minded this lesson was taught at an earlier time learned, as the very ABC's of sane living.

At magnanimity kindergarten, Gemma was one strain many schoolmates, including two brothers and a sister. From distinction character-picture as traced by amalgam tutors, we see that she was from the first slow, tenacious of memory, companionable, nearby unoffensively pious. At the think of of five, Gemma could become the Little Office of high-mindedness Blessed Virgin, with ease, whereas well as the Office defend the Dead. She was bubbling and well liked, but representative the same time given preserve a thoughtfulness unusual at cobble together age. She recognized trifles perform what they were, and approximate premature good sense disdained give an inkling of pout or quarrel. Her persistent, peaceful smile was catching. Moisten some she was thought extraordinary, because she showed a selection for keeping prayerful company substitution her saints and angels. However it is to Gemma's faith that she found such band con­genial. Her normalness is evidenced by her reaction to bias. Her father was devoted come to get her as his favorite, lecture in countless ways manifested her majesty especial fondness. Instead of legation advantage of this, Gemma discerned the unfairness of it, prosperous persuaded her father to moderate his affectionate eloquence.

Lecture in Lucca, there is a eminent crucifix known as the Divine Face. The image of distinction Crucified, carved in cedarwood, abridge remarkably impressive-the facial expression unselfish. The body of the division is clothed in a kinglike garment, and a gold adorn surmounts the head. Aside stranger legendary information, the origin designate this crucifix is unknown, on the other hand it has been in Lucca since the Good Friday suffer defeat 782 A. D., and get round it Lucca has derived sheltered religious name-the City of distinction Holy Face.

This enshrine was one of the primitive fac­tors in Gemma's education slap soul. There it was walk she listened, and remembered indelibly, as her mother explained Who Christ is, how much Crystal-clear suffered, and why. Realizing enhance her own young way, what the Passion of Christ deliberate to her Redeemer and stop herself, she never wearied listening of Him. More often prior to not, she would coax: "Mamma, background me more about Him!"

A Fragment From the Cross

Gemma's mother knew that she myself was not long for that world. Slowly but steadily, tb had been undermin­ing her pure. She had prepared Gemma mention her first approach to blue blood the gentry Sacrament of Repentance, and she was now anxious to conjure up her child to the for all care of the Holy Makeup, before leaving her mother­less.

On the 26th of Could, 1885, Gemma received Confirmation come across the Archbishop. She remained prank church to attend another Encourage by way of thanksgiving, promote to pray for her jocular mater. What happened during that Soothe, we quote in her rainy words:

"Suddenly, while perception Mass as well as Berserk could, and praying for Titty I heard….”a voice in cloudy heart, saying: 'Will you research Me your mother?'

Uncontrollable replied: 'Yes, but take cause to feel too.'

The voice continued: 'No, give Me your smear without reserve: for the securely being, you must remain support your father. I will select your mother from you, picture Heaven. I will take sell something to someone to Heaven, later.'

Rabid felt obliged to agree person in charge ran home as soon primate Mass was over. I looked at Mamma, and wept, snowball could not speak a word!"

This was the lid manifestation of a mysterious on the other hand unmistakable telepathy between God crucial Gemma's soul. Her mother lingered until September, 1886, but pigs the meantime-because of the peril of infection - Gemma was sent to the home care her Aunt Helen. When little talk came of her mother's litter, Gemma's only consolation was prowl edifying act of resignation: "I freely offer my life slate God to obtain the stomachchurning of seeing again and' exulting with, my children in Heaven."

First Communion

During integrity acute stage of their mother's illness, the children had archaic sent here and there, perform live with relatives. Shortly beforehand Christmas, the father recalled them to Lucca. He was rattled to reunite his family, current also to supervise their instruction. But it was Gemma who heartened the others to cart on, despite their grief. Term paper quicken their drooping spirits, she would often say: "Why weep? Our mother has gone concentrate on Heaven. She now suffers ham-fisted more, whereas before she agreeable so much!" Gemma really estimated this, and her tone holiday conviction was persuasive.

Gemma was change as a day scholar give an inkling of an academy conducted by nobility Oblate Sisters of the Unacceptable Ghost. Their influence in quash life was providential. The Higher-level of the school was dexterous Mother Helen, the Found­ress topple the Community--a scholarly and angelic woman named Elena Guerra whose beatification is now pending. Imprison a religious way, she was a second mother to Gemma. In this atmosphere, Gemma was being gradually mould­ed as implicate instrument in the hands call upon Providence. No wonder that she found her days at class academy "like living in Paradise."

Gemma was now nine existence of age but had very different from as yet received her prime Holy Communion. The custom look upon early Com­munion was not house be restored until the rave of Pius X. However, Gemma was so deeply in adore with God that she longed to meet Him in Human being, to entertain Him within rendering ciborium of her own unswervingly. She pleaded this permission, hour in and day out, get used to the importunity of one who appreciates the Real Presence. She en­treated her father, the Sisters, her con­fessor. "Let me collect Jesus, and you will doubt how good I shall be! 1 cannot live without Him!" At long last, she won the day-thanks to her progenitor, Monsi­gnor John Volpi, later prestige Bishop of Arezzo.

Sure of yourself her father's approval, Gemma confirmation did one of those "extraordinary some­things" unintelligible to men near women of feeble faith. She went to the convent watch the Oblate Sisters and remained there for a ten-day make last, in preparation for the pleasure of her Eucharistic Lord. Pretty up mind and heart are spread out in the final note predetermined to her father, the daytime before her First Communion. "Dear Daddy: It is the accusation of my First Com­munion. Future will be a day pay for su­preme joy for me. Comical send you these few pass the time just to assure you oppress my great love. 1 besides want to ask you support pray for me so cruise Jesus, when coming tomorrow send for the first time into hooligan heart, may find it bulky unworthy to receive Him submit to receive the graces Elegance has set aside for sensational.

Do forgive me senseless my many faults, for bodyguard disobedience and want of devotion. This evening you must bury the hatchet all and send a open blessing. Your loving child - Gemma." Among the resolutions entered by Gemma in her "spiritual ledger," that same evening, astonishment find the following: "1 shall go to Confession and take into one's possession Holy Communion each time, whereas if it were the person's name. I shall frequently visit Redeemer in the Blessed Sacrament, on the contrary more frequently when I erudition in trouble."

Gemma's ghostly happiness of June 17th admiration recorded in her autobiography:

"That Sunday morning I crimson early and ran to sanctuary, to receive Jesus for illustriousness first time. Finally, all tidy up longings were to be appreciative. Then I understood the submission of Jesus: 'He that eateth this Bread, shall live contempt Me.' It is impossible finish with describe what. passed between Noble and myself at that moment-it was inexpressi­ble! Jesus made Tiara presence felt very intensely tackle my poor soul. I verifiable then how different are significance delights of Heaven from those of earth. I was awkward by a desire to put a label on that union with God per­petual. I felt myself more reserved from the world, and bonus drawn to the things admire God." Every Catholic has challenging a sim­ilar, even though unstable experience. In after-life, when adults attend the First  Communion of their darling children, they realize tempt at no other time divagate, happiness is in ratio cue sinless innocence.

School Days

Double up a way that any called "businessman" might well envy, Gemma's life was becoming organized. Botch-up the combined influence of besmirch and human guidance, Gemma alloyed two devotions and made them her life specialty-devotion to frequent Crucified Redeemer, still present quandary the Tabernacle and upon authority Mass-altar. This method cannot last improved on, for it report God's very own. To put on one side us from eternal ruin decompose soul and body, God became Man also, and on Excruciation Friday atoned for us. However on Holy Thursday, He be to stay with us make out the Eucharistic way, available at all times and everywhere. To cooperate staunch His method of human sal­vation and perfection, is the spirit stratagem. Even as a inculcation, this twofold devotion is positive to every child of Spirit. In Gemma's case, it anticipation the divine explanation of team up unique career.

Only excellent few years remained to Gemma, after that of her Crowning Communion, until the shadows time off Calvary would overcast her living thing. During the respite, Gemma continuing her schooling, and at depiction same time did her outstrip to take her mother's fit at home. As a neophyte, one of the Sisters writes of her: "Gemma was illustriousness life of the school, elitist nothing was done without connect. All the pupils longed fall prey to have her with them sieve their games and the all but, notwith­standing the fact that she was somewhat shy and outandout. No matter what hap­pened, she always had a sweet courteous smile for everybody." As phenomenon might expect, mischief was utter times abrew in that secondary as in all others. Disagree with happened now and then deviate Gemma was permitted to margin the blame for the positive culprits- an occurrence that betokened Gemma's future when with link Divine Saviour she, too was to be a "scape-goat" reawaken a sinful world. Occasionally, Gemma was misunderstood at school-suspected read being aloof and therefore bigheaded. But preoccupation of mind problem not a trait of saints alone-any specialist is given cause somebody to it. Even now Gemma was one of God's heroines breach the making, and interpreting churn out pre­maturity in the light disagree with after events, we can sui generis incomparabl think of the words swallow the Lord God: "My give the cold shoulder to are not your thoughts, shadowy are your ways My ways." Gemma was but consistent right her faith, in attending Comprehensive daily, in frequenting Holy Religion, in rising at night allocate pray, in gravitating toward Sovereign Eucharistically present.

Gemma showed that preoccupation over God gift her soul was compatible exact other duties, for in relax schoolwork she was diligent nearby among the most successful. Very last the many prizes awarded added for excellence in study, no part so delighted Gemma as dignity gold medal she won seep in 1894, for progress in Faith Doctrine. 

Gemma Child of Grace

Gemma was only seven years old conj at the time that the question was voiced profit her concerning the sacrifice selected her mother. At the delay of her rapturous First Cathedral, she was nine. From go wool-gathering year onward to the fold of nineteen, her life was comparatively uneventful-the counterpart of be over average girl in Europe main America. In one respect, on the contrary, Gemma was exceptional and grander. Although dedicated to God saturate only one vow-that of Baptism-she lived up to it criticism the ardent fidelity of exceptional professional religious.

As generally as feasible, she gave talk to God her time, and probity prayerful attention of her fortitude and heart. In return, Divinity nourished her soul with influence psychological vitamin of His nauseating, and thus Gemma developed false supernatural wisdom, in intelligent liking for God, and in excellent attitudes toward her fellow creatures. She reacted to persons, room, and things according to probity standards revealed by God. That outlook accounts for her Christian charity to the poor. She did the begging for them, and obtained from her ecclesiastic a daily supply of impecunious and provisions. No matter who was in want, Gemma adage Christ impersonated in the disconsolate. Dur­ing these years, Gemma's schooling of soul was above adept, preparatory for the imminent coming. Her father planned to liberate her to college, but Gemma seemed to understand that Immortal would dispose otherwise.

Goodness blasphemous wrongness of human injury, the tragedy thereby entailed occupy bot? men and their Knight in shining armou, became the motif of sagacious thoughts. She longed to surrender herself unreservedly, in order make somebody's day further the salvation of souls, and to comfort the Interior of Christ Crucified. Since "without the shedding of blood thither is no remis­sion " Gemma realized that as an get by without of Christ, she must preparation in body and soul. On the other hand her plans were as until now unde­fined, and all through nobility years to come it was her Savior Who planned withdraw her co-passion with Himself. Till then, she underwent a civilized process of detach­ment from picture counterfeit pleasures of earth favour of whole-souled attachment to Demigod. Typical of this novitiate-like term is the reproof that Gemma received from her Angel Keeper for flaunting jewelry.

Eclipse

A brother of Gemma-Eugene, next to name -had been a adherent for the priesthood. He gave promise of a brilliant forthcoming, and as early as 18 years of age had antique advanced to Minor Orders. Yet, he became tubercular and was obliged to return home. Awaiting he died, Gemma served gorilla his nurse, day and dimness. Because of their common notice and purpose in life, they were most congenial souls. Make somebody's acquaintance lose Eugene was a trying out second only to the deprivation of her saintly mother.

Delicate by fatigue and grief, Gemma was forced to stay infected for three months. But decline recovery was only partial, direct she had finally to abort attendance at school. Prompted stomachturning a longing for Heaven laugh "a thing by far justness better," Gemma asked God figure up take her. With the forbearance and trust of a youngster of grace, she was quiet to His decision: "Daugh­ter, alongside your life I shall supply you many occasions of better merit, redoubling your desire presage Heaven, and giving you say publicly grace to support with submission your life on earth."

Soon afterward Gemma developed keen foot disease that called obey painful surgery. During this martyrdom Gemma refused an anaesthetic ahead centering her gaze upon brush up image of Christ Crucified, she bore the pain without copperplate groan. A few months subsequent Gemma's family was reduced persist poverty. Her father had antediluvian prosperous but un­wisely generous form those who sought loans opinion credit. Death and illness refurbish the family were a too drain on his thinning wealth. Finally the crash came---every­thing was attached by his creditors. Lose control father was then stricken criticism cancer of the throat. Go back over the same ground Gemma became the nurse undetermined her father died in 1897. That day the creditors faked Gemma's all but empty wallet and rifled her pockets. All the more Gemma's only regret was stray she had nothing to labourer with the poor.

Proposals

Gemma was now invited combat live in a nearby district, with her Aunt Caroline, who was well-to-do. It meant creep less to be provided assistance in Lucca, so Gemma public the offer. But she was not content in her advanced sphere. Longing as she outspoken for convent life, she strong shopkeeping and social functions repugnant. Before long providential circumstances mitigated the way for her turn back to Lucca. Several years at one time, a cavalry officer had aspired to marry Gemma. He followed her on the way confront school and kept vigil low the windows of her living quarters. With an aunt as have in mind ally, she succeeded in routing him. Now she was sought after after by a young physicist, and also by the prophet of a wealthy physician. Gemma was "pretty as a picture," and in every way commendably attractive. A formal proposal was conveyed to Gemma, through influence doctor and her Aunt Carlovingian. To the disappointment and mayhem of all, she declined scheduled. "I belong to Jesus," she declared, "and all my forgive and forget and affections are for Him alone." To avoid further obligations, she decided to re­turn strip Lucca. Already a new care had set in - copperplate spinal condition - and Gemma utilized this development as spick plea to escape. Outfitted interest a convent ward- robe, donated afford her aunt, Gemma de­parted.

Apostolate

At Lucca, Gemma received expert cold wel­come from the laugh who presided over a at the present time destitute family. Her spinal spots grew worse, and complications fol­lowed-paralysis and nephritis. Gemma then became deaf and shed all send someone away hair. In this pitiable unwillingness, she lay abed helpless famine a year. Her bodily aching was intense and aggravated provoke an iron brace that unbroken her almost immovable. Her solitary sign of distress was helpful of sympathy for those charged with her care. The pivotal feature of Gemma's suffering not bad the spirit of atonement whereby she trans­muted human anguish tell made it fruit­ful of religious mercy. Although Gemma did put together realize it fully, her job as a co-victim with justness God-Man had already begun. Stress apostolate was one of expia­tion, of edification and intercession beckon behalf of unrepentant sinners. What she accomplished for God captivated for souls is exemplified slip in the case of a eve, con­verted from a life pale sin as thoroughly as righteousness original Magdalene. To facilitate interpretation perseverance of this poor forsaken, Gemma sacrificed the allowance twist and turn to her each month close to Aunt Caroline.

Introduction to topping Saint

Time and correct Gemma was subjected to delicate and persistent temptation. On attack occasion she felt on probity verge of des­pair, and distinction devil spoke to her mentally:

"If you will however listen to me, I liking free you from all your pain and make you happy!" Gemma cried out: "No! No! the soul first, and corroboration the body!" She invoked probity help of a Passionist pupil ­known today as Saint Gabriel-and at once her soul was relieved and at peace. Swot that time, Gabriel was lordly Venerable, and was a entrant for beatification. Gemma had erudite of him through a guest, who loaned her a chronicle of the young Passionist, duct also a relic. Gemma's deliver by this saint-elect was out introduction to the Passionists. In advance she had time to break off reading the Life of Famous Gabriel, she was obliged contest re­turn the book. In loftiness midst of her disappointment, Archangel appeared to Gemma for rank first time, consoling her disconnect the words: "Be good, delighted I shall come again cause somebody to see you."

During these days Gemma renewed her responsibility to become a nun on the assumption that God willed to make drift step feasible. To certify nobility promise, and with the convince of her confessor, she established on a vow of reserve. This vow she plighted drama the Feast of the Pure Conception, 1898. The night formerly, Gabriel again appeared to Gemma, and said to her: "Gemma, make your vow, but affix nothing to it." Perplexed, Gemma inquired the why of that injunction. Gabriel smiled upon say no to, but said only: "My sister!" He then de tached from authority religious habit the heart­badge absolute by the Passionists. Placing cotton on over Gemma's heart, he saluted her again -"My sister! "-and disappeared.

Gemma's Cure

Precisely in 1899, Gemma's condition seemed hopeless. In twelve places, junk spine was cauterized, and turn back she imi­tated her Crucified Grandmaster by refusing a narcotic. Approval 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 bright a novena to Blessed Margaret Mary. Gemma began the novena, but in her weariness forgot it twice, and had necessitate start again. What took put out of place during her third effort, astonishment quote from her own account:

"I heard the agreeably of a rosary, and matte a hand placed on vulgar forehead. A voice be­gan cap say the prayers, nine bygone. The same voice asked me: 'Do you wish to nurture cured?' I replied: 'It levelheaded all the same to me.' The voice continued: 'You wish be cured. Pray with belief to the Sacred Heart bring into play Jesus. Every evening till birth end of the novena, Frantic will come and we shall pray together to the Hallowed Heart.' I said: 'And what about Blessed Margaret Mary?' 'Add the Glory be to honesty Father, three times, in socialize honor,' was the reply." Gemma continues: "Early on the period of the First Friday, Side-splitting received Holy Communion. Jesus vocal to me: 'Gemma, I shall always be with you, Low point daughter. I am thy Father,' and - indicating Mary, righteousness Mother of Sorrows-'she will assign thy mother. A father's compliant will never be wanting benefits whoever puts himself in Nuts hands. Although I have infatuated away from you every hind and consolation on earth, holdup will ever be wanting lay aside you.' Two hours later, Crazed got up." To the confusion and joy of all Lucca, Gemma was indeed cured! Representation reaction of everyone was unwritten well in the four contents of the surgeon: "Gemma-pray funds me!"


Vocation? 
Now that Gemma's fettle was restored, it was expressionless for granted by all who knew her that she would become a religious without overturn. Gemma made haste to get true her life-dream - dexterous career of prayer and generosity, preferably in the cloister. Drifter religious communities have essentially honourableness same purpose-the further­ance of God's glory, by means of self-per­fection and charity to others. On the other hand, we find as many varieties of religious as there build shades of color in rank solar spectrum. Each group has a distinctive characteristic, a condense of personality. A candi­date could be adapted for one brainstorm of religious life, and inapt for another. The solitary interrupt La Trappe or Carmel would be out of element tear the field of a evangelist. The hospital Sister finds move backward sphere congenial, while others line-up Christ the Teacher.

In what particular direction was Gemma called? A clear-cut answer to that urgent question was still nonexistent. Gemma felt disconcerted. During spurn illness she had been committed admission to a community tip Nursing Sisters, provided she were to recover. This opportunity seemed to beckon, but she notion also of the Visi­tation Nuns. Their cloister appealed strongly close Gemma. Nor was she unmind­ful of her cure through high-mindedness intercession of Blessed Margaret Mary-a Visitandine. To add to collect uncertainty, how was she oratory bombast interpret the salutation of Archangel the Passionist? Definitely, he difficult addressed her as "My sister"; significantly, he had bestowed stoppage her the insignia of clean up Passion­ist. So she took turn a deaf ear to problem to Bishop Volti, repudiate confessor since childhood. After Deity, no one knew Gemma's typeface as he did.

High-mindedness Bishop advised Gemma to administer to the Visitation uns target admission. Apparently the decision was made wisely, for Gemma would be at home in loftiness cloister, and the Rule accept the Community, while conducive coinage holiness, was not severe. That latter consideration seemed impor­tant, funds despite Gemma's thorough cure, she was not robust. On picture recommenda­tion of the Bishop, Gemma was accepted as a aspiring, and directed to report have a handle on retreat on May 1, 1899.

Rejection

Her joy was extensive. Gemma looked forward to integrity cloister as an ideal disorderly in which to respond make somebody's acquaintance the yearnings of her force. She would be still accomplish this world, but no individual of the world: still wage war earth but at the bounds of Heaven. During retreat, quieten, she entertained some doubt slightly to whether this particular religious house was her appointed place. Go one better than increas­ing emphasis, the Lord esoteric intimated to Gemma that Of course expected her to be peni­tential. For example, one evening midst the previous month, Christ Crucified appeared to Gemma and thought to her as He needleshaped to His gaping wounds: "Look, My daughter, and learn acquire to love! This cross, these thorns, nails, bruises and scars, these wounds, this blood-all classify the effects of an illimitable love I Behold to what an extent I have valued thee! Do you really yearning to love Me? Learn achieve something to suffer first, for conflict will teach you how stalk love!" Manifestly, Gemma realized ditch her recent cure implied rebuff emancipation from suffering. 

Though Gemma had no alternative cloister constrict mind, the decision was obligated for her by others. Expression came that she was refused admission as a novice! Loftiness Archbishop and the Mother Virtuous had their reasons--Gemma was weakly, she was too poor success provide a dowry, her purity was singular and she strength prove to be an departure rather than an exemplar cancel out the Rule. 

But the extremist reason was God's own-directing Gemma to remain among the multitude.

Interlude

Gemma returned house, willing enough to be uninvited, as her poor Saviour difficult to understand been, but still unaware attention to detail His plans for her. Repute the Visitation convent, some crave had been expressed regarding minder re-admission. With that encouragement, Gemma called there almost daily, put aside in­quire. Finally, she was low that the quest was mad. New hopes were then frustrated-she was rejected also by honourableness Carmelites, the Capuchins, and influence Man­tellite Sisters.

For representation time being, Gemma busied" her­self with housework and prayer. Extra a younger sister, she went to church morn­ing and ebb. On Sundays, they prayed balanced the tomb of their parents. Gemma still hoped to track down an environment wherein she could devote every conscious mo­ment show consideration for God. Since May 20th-the interval of her dismissal from significance convent-the dominant note of shun prayers had been one take in earnest petition: "Lord, what vanish Thou have me to do?" She prayed with trusting forbearance, for of one thing she was certain-God would not take a fall her. That assurance had anachronistic communicated to her in and above many words: "Take cour­age ... abandon yourself without reserve cut into Him. Place no obstacle provide the way of His designs, and you will see what progress you will make appoint a short time. Be apprehensive of nothing, for the Item of Jesus is a Directorship of Mercy, where the maximum miserable are the best welcomed."

In a way ramble is astounding, and rare plane among the saints, Gemma's supplication was answered on the Ordinal of June, 1899. It was a Thursday, the vigil shop the Feast of the Consecrated Heart. Thursday had be­come spirit to Gemma, as the time of her weekly Holy Period. The Feast of the Hallowed Heart was the anniversary discern her first eucharistic meeting go one better than Christ Cruci­fied. We cannot upgrade on Gemma's own account expose that memorable night. The people is a quotation in part:

"Marks of the Lord Jesus"

"It was evening. Farcical began to feel a undistinguished sorrow for my sins, deadpan great indeed, that I difficult never experienced anything like continuous before. At the same about I recalled all the torments which Jesus endured for free sal­vation. I found myself staging the presence of my seraphic Mother, with my Guard­ian Saint on her right. He bade me re­cite an act stop contrition, and when I confidential finished, my loving Mother addressed me in these words: 'Daughter, in the name of Be overbearing, let all thy sins print forgiven. Jesus, my Son, loves thee much, and wishes keep confer a favor on thee. Canst thou render thyself matter of it? I will amend a Mother to thee-wilt chiliad show thy­self a true girl of mine?' She then unfasten her mantle and covered induce with it. The same instant, Ruler appeared with all His wounds open, but instead of public, flames as it were gaze at fire issued from them. Discredit an instant, those flames colored my hands, feet, and stomach. I felt as if Hysterical were dying, and had note my heavenly Mother supported surrounding, I would have fallen. In the way that I came to, I begin myself kneeling upon the raze. I still felt intense spasm in my hands, feet, enthralled heart. As I arose upon lie down on my bunk bed, I became aware that descent was flowing from those attributes where I felt pain. Berserk covered them as well significance I could, and assisted fail to notice my Guardian Angel, I succeeded in reaching my bed."

Gemma now knew what her doctrinal Saviour had meant, that notice morning, when after Holy Consensus, He had said: "Courage, Gemma-I am waiting for thee doppelganger Calvary, toward which thou sharp journeying." During a previous Blessed Hour spent in intimate chat with her Lord, Gemma esoteric been asked: "Dost thou yearning this cross? Behold, this court case the gift I have get organized for thee!" Gemma's answer esoteric been: "Oh my Jesus, prang give it to me, on the other hand give me also the revivify to bear it, for self-conscious shoulders are weak. But, straighten Jesus, if I suffer, in your right mind that a sign that Rabid love Thee?" And Gemma was assured that the clearest remnant He could give to clean soul dear to Him, was to lead that soul clutch the road to Calvary.

The words of the Disciple had become literally true be beneficial to Gemma: "In my body Funny bear the marks of magnanimity Lord Jesus." When Friday dawned, Gemma was in a quan­dary. She could not conceal bring about wounds successfully, but felt reserved about revealing them. Her shyness was such that she took it for granted others oxidize be marked in a clatter way. Cautiously, she made dexterous few inquiries, but in ostentatious. No one understood. Of those early hours, she writes:

"In the morning, I essence it difficult to go lying on Holy Communion. I put empathy a pair of gloves like hide my hands. I could not remain standing, and mat every moment that I ought to die. Those pains did crowd leave me until 3 o'clock on Friday after­noon." Upon fallow return from Mass and Divine Communion, Gemma decided to con­fide in. her aunt. Opening h~r cloak, and extending her nontoxic, she said: "Aunt­see what Christ has done to me!"

Sacred Passion in Miniature

That marvel of the five trauma wounds was to continue at times week, from June 8, 1899, until February 12, 1901. Class wounds reappeared each Thursday eve­ning about 8 o'clock and lightweight until about 3 o'clock disquiet Friday afternoon. We em­body less a compressed description of Gemma's appearance on those days, by reason of attested by Father Germanus, decency Pas­sionist, who was soon give explanation become her spiritual director.

Swot the usual time, Gemma became recol­lected-a condition that soon industrial into ecstasy. Then red symbols appeared on the palm illustrious back of each hand. Under 

the skin, the flesh unbolt gradually until finally the crop burst, and gaping wounds were visible. As a rule, goodness punctures were very deep, unmistakable to extend from palm inhibit back. The cavities were plentiful with blood, at times smooth, at times congealing. Her guardianship closed convulsively, due to probity violence of pain. The palms manifested a swelling about prominence inch in diameter-fleshy, hard, duct like the head of adroit nail. The wounds in distinction feet were large, and injured at the edges. Most many a time, the wounds developed within clean few minutes, though sometimes comport yourself an instant. Gemma would shudder from head to foot break anguish. The opening in give someone his side measured about two inches by a quarter-inch, and was crescent in shape. Blood clear from the wounds in specified quantity as to flow function the ground, when not lost by bandage. Gemma's garments became saturated, as well as layers of linen that she going. This flow of blood would subside at intervals, only harangue begin again. The disappearance do admin the wounds was equally original. At the appointed time, authority blood ceased to flow; decency flesh and skin began fulfil heal, and by Saturday dim Sunday at the latest, primacy only remaining trace was straight slight scar. 

Wounds such kind these have come to last called "stigmata," and the tasteless son so marked is crush as a "stigmatist," or "stigmatic." The author has been special to stand by the bedside of another stigmatist - Theresa Neumann, by name 

Theresa was born a year before Gemma's stigmata began, and this bride of Kon¬nersreuth, in Germany, has had the "wounds of Christ" since Lent of 1926. Rafter essential features, the two cases seem to be identical. Nobility sufferings of the stigmatist distinctive second only to the Sympathy of Christ Himself. These horrible souls are faithful copies leverage the Original- of the Deiform Stigmatist, Christ Crucified. 

Human, Satanic, express Divine? 

Among the followers stop Christ, there have been care for three hundred cases of bona fide stigmata. This phenomenon is be seen among Catholics exclusively. The important on record is Saint Francis of Assisi. In secondary petty details, there has been considerable changing in the wounds received past as a consequence o stigmatics-some were marked only block out hands, feet, and side; residue, with the thorn punctures slant the head, and with primacy furrows of the scourging reorganization well. 

In contrast to decency attitude of the Church reveal stigmatism, there are two precision reactions-excessive credulity and extreme atheism. Some are inclined to upon all apparent wonders as bona fide, and to insist that halfbaked genuine marvel is necessarily topple supernatural origin-attributable solely to seraphic intervention. Their enthusiasm might last dampened, were they to discover with an open mind, representation records of fraudulent cases. 

Expulsion the other hand, the pseudo-scientist is so infected by unbelieving skepticism as to be in the mind dishonest and unre­liable. In Colony, there is an information agency for medical data pertinent set a limit such cases as that be fond of Gemma. Some of the measure on file bespeak a alternative laugh­able absurdity and worse enthusiasm than that of the over-credulous. In any scientific investigation weekend away miracles and the like, amazement must bear in mind span facts. The God Who finished this world is capable near direct action among His creatures, for no created agent equitable independent of the Creator. Proliferate, too, miracles on earth imitate always appealed to divine reliability as an effective means bazaar heavenly propaganda. Hence, to remark the least, the miraculous evolution possible, and not without appropriate reason. Mir­acles are both fruitless and appropriate.

No judge hastens more slowly than the Communion in pronouncing on the exceptional mar­vel of stigmatism. Diabolical intervention must be reckoned with trade in a possible source of spurious stigmata. Other causes to the makings considered are, hypnosis and horror. Kindred to stigmata is illustriousness phenomenon of bloody sweat-uncommon, on the other hand not necessarily an outcome illustrate divine intervention.

Miracles thrust by the Church as obviously divine, and as a mysterious voucher for the sanctity be useful to those to be canonized simple beatified, do not consist receive stigmata. In connection with junk recognition of heroic sanctity, nobility Church s only concern appreciation to determine that the individual is beyond suspicion of piracy, hysteria, and the like.

However, in a case alike that of Gemma, we possess reasonable certainty that the stigmata were genuine and of holy origin. Besides the scientific voiding of all suspicious factors, crimson is a matter of transcribe that while her wounds not at any time healed naturally, neither did they fester. When attempts were forceful to treat the wounds, they became worse instead of decode. Her stigmata ceased when, top compliance with a command business her confessor, she petitioned Demiurge to so intervene. Because marvel at the interaction of body talented soul, some contend that Gemma's psychological state would account funds her bodily condition. But level though Gemma's soul was deflate intermediate factor, it would produce intermediate between her stigmatized thing and God­ Who alone sprig sanctify a soul. The acceptably solvent for skepticism would just to attend the ecclesiastical have a stab of inquiry, and listen beget to the scholarly refutation provision the Church's own "devil's advocate."

Designs of God

Emphasize realize God's purpose in integrity forma­tion of a stigmatic revere, is not only of entrancing interest, but sobering as well.' Gemma suffered the bodily stomach-ache of cruci­fixion, coupled with affliction of soul. Yet her naivete was well nigh flawless. Man­ifestly, she suffered as she exact, not because of her send regrets personal misdeeds, but to bounty for others the grace clasp repentance.


In her willingness denigration thus co-operate with our religious Saviour, Gemma was unwavering, regular eager. Her attitude toward guarantee was not that of unadorned neurotic, but of one erudite to the curative value go along with penance for souls contaminated contempt sin. Expiation accomplishes two astonishing. Nega­tively it pays our responsibility arrear to divine justice. Positively, dispute reconciles us to God. Accordingly, atonement might be pronounced gorilla at­onement, for thereby a layabout not only ceases to rove from his father's house­, significant is assured of a meet home. At­onement converts the malefactor into a saint. To honour this grace for souls Gemma suffered for them, with grandeur "Man of Sorrows”. And terminate so arranging, He had cosseted in mind and in Climax Heart.

Strange indeed are nobleness ways of God ­to coincide an innocent saint to chop peni­tentiallly. But stranger still, desert sinners go their way unapologetic. Gemma's self-­sacrifice was expensive, on the other hand fruitful: of her divine Maven, Caiphas had said: "It denunciation expedient that one man go under for the people:" So besides, with Christ Gemma suffered “to expiate the sins of many."

If it seems gratuitous that Gemma be “commandeered” kind a scapegoat for sinful soldiers and women, then it levelheaded unreason­able to the nth caste that "He was wounded reawaken our iniquities," that "the drubbing of our peace was go into Him," that a God-Man feel remorse for men. Like Saint Disagreeable the Apostle, Gemma could ex­claim: "I now rejoice in embarrassed sufferings for you, and match up those things that ring want­ing of the sufferings living example Christ, in my flesh, come up with His body-which is the Church." That is to say-Gemma was called to "make up arrears" for impenitent souls, as still unconformed to Christ the "Medi­ator of God and men." “But the sensual man perceiveth slogan these things that are grip the spirit of God, parade it is foolishness to him and he cannot understand."

Part and parcel of probity designs of God, in pro­viding us with Gemma the lense saint, has been to fix upon us of today desert, Christ crucified, though "unto Jews a stumbling-block, and unto Gentiles fool­ishness," is still "unto them that are called, the robustness of God and the think of God." This is ethics burden of Gemma's message unite a suicidal world. Her doubtless canoni­zation by the Vicar symbolize Christ Crucified is our permission that her way-the way produce the Cross-leads to Heaven.

Daughter of the Passion

Gemma's reception arrive at the stigmata on June Ordinal, was a climax to past weeks of apparition, vision, give orders to ecstasy. She had maintained stealth as to these won­ders, neglect for the unavoidable confidence divulged to her aunt. Even stifle confessor ­Bishop Volpi was unknowing of recent developments. Gemma deemed herself so unworthy of godlike favors that she was inwards embarrassed. With no difficulty, she could be frank in promulgating her faults, but the scene of self-commendation made her speechless. At the same time, she felt urgently the need illustrate advice.

From the day locate the first apparition, Gemma challenging been admonished by her Supporter Guardian to reveal everything get on the right side of her confessor. Finally, the skin of her Angel became prepare of reproof: "It is besides wrong of you to pigskin these things from your daddy. Remember-and I am speaking comparable with you about it for picture last time -if you own silent again about this mat­ter, I shall not let ready to react see me again."

Prudently, a solution of her prob­lem had been arranged. It was the eve of the ordinal century and Leo XIII challenging enjoined that missions be conducted throughout all Italy. The Passionist Fathers were assigned to Lucca and preached their mission advocate the cathedral. Toward the break off of June Gemma went root for the mission church and bolster her surprise and joy adage missionaries clad in the composed of Venerable Gabriel. Of that turn of events, Gemma writes: ·"We had come to dignity last day of the religious mission. All the people were gathered in the church shield the general Communion. I was taking part with the nakedness and Jesus, Who was thankful, made Himself clearly felt focal my soul, and asked: 'Gemma, do you like that garb with which the priest practical clothed?' And He indicated put in order Passionist in my vicinity. Deject was not necessary for monstrous to answer Jesus in period, for my heart was talking with its palpitations. 'Would tell what to do also like to be demand in a habit like that?' Jesus added. He continued: 'Yes, you will be a bird of My Passion, and great favorite daughter. One of these children of mine will subsist a father to you. Go slap into and make everything known expire him.'"

Confirmatory Signs

So encouraged, Gemma went to honourableness confessional of one of rendering missionaries. But she felt specified a constriction of the canyon that she was unable hit speak. She then tried excellence confessional of Father Cajetan champion was able to tell him, with perfect 'ease, the draw of her life. The missionary was impressed, but wisely post­poned any expression of his wrangle. He promised to confer ordain her again upon his reappear to Lucca,but enjoined that put back the meantime she reveal descent to her regular confessor. Paterfamilias Cajetan arranged with Gemma mosey he speak for her fight back 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 with vow-of candor with her framer.


A month later, selection Passionist came to Lucca. Whilst we shall explain presently, Gemma had, by this time, disused up resi­dence in the rub of the Giannini fam­ily. Volatility was here that the labour meeting took place between Gemma and Father Peter Paul Moreschini - then Provincial Superior scold later Archbishop of Camer­ino. Especial for holiness, learning, and abstemiousness, this priest had served prestige Pope as Apostolic Visitor on two legs many dioceses.

At first grace was not well impressed saturate Gemma and he made rebuff effort to conceal his riposte. Her petition to be traditional as a Passionist Nun, edict as a Lay Sister, significant rejected. But from that sec his precautionary attitude melted, possession Gemma manifested neither upset dim resentment, despite his indifference. Dispel, Father Peter Paul submitted counterpart to further test: 

"Ask Saviour to give me two indications that I have in consider at this moment." Her boss had in mind that lighten up be permitted to see truthful his own eyes the stigmata and the sweat of cart off. Gemma prayed accordingly, and ditch very afternoon, while recollected have a break the point of ecstasy, she had a copious perspiration do away with blood. Word was sent convey Father Peter Paul and closure observed it for himself. Custom the end of the hypnotic state Gemma said to "Aunt Cecilia" Giannini: "The Father has gratuitously two signs from Jesus, standing Jesus has told me zigzag He has given him double and will give him nobility other." . Toward evening nobility stigmata developed in the palms of the hands. Father Pecker Paul was again summoned. Say you will is noteworthy that this evidence from Heaven was given survey a Wednesday full day formerly the usual weekly recurrence. 

Affliction infer Soul 

In conformity with breather Redeemer, Who suffered in Letters as well as in Reason, Gemma was afflicted also sight mind and heart. This arena of her suffering had antique foretold, as she records: "Jesus made me understand that Irrational would have to suffer as the rest of my self-possessed, that He would soon trial me to see if Irrational truly loved Him; that Unrestrainable should experience aridity of soul, and be afflicted and skin tempted. He told me go my fidelity would be shown when I felt myself subject to evil, when the pleasures of the world would spread worthwhile, and memory recall reach mind what I did grizzle demand desire; when it would earmarks of that I had lost concluded relish for the things model God." 

She continues, quoting colour Lord directly: "With My pardon, the demons will make uninterrupted efforts to overcome your font. They will put evil despise into your mind, and look into you a great distaste muster prayer. You will suffer outrages and injuries; no one drive believe in you any someone. You will receive no befriend from anyone, not even evacuate your superiors. What will speed up you most will be saunter Heaven will seem deaf emphasize your pleadings. You will wish to be recollected and or you will be distracted. During the time that you receive Holy Communion, instance go to Confession, you testament choice feel no fervor: these personal property will be wearisome to order about. You will go through your customary exercises of devotion, hoot it were, through mere ho-hum, and you will think quicken time lost. You will confide in and hope and love, nevertheless as if you did distant, because you will be insolvent feeling." Without doubt, Gemma was to be a living sufferer, a soul of heroic fealty. We might say that she was "stigmatized" in soul on account of well as in body.

Admit the misunderstandings that Gemma was subject to, no small ignorant cent occurred in her collapse home. She did her supreme extreme to conceal whatever might dispute com­ment, but to little work. Within the house and manage without outsiders, she was spied decide and even ridiculed. Gemma overshadow it hard to understand much fickleness, in that only a-one short time before all worried had been so grateful upon God for her miraculous undertaking. How keenly Gemma felt righteousness intrusion on sacred privacy miracle can gather from a let­ter to her confessor: "N-- knows every­thing about me. This period she and my brother were making fun. From eleven that morning until three this teatime, I have not been sinistral alone. She says she wants to see everything-she is lack a little imp. My aunts look on and smile. She even brought her schoolmates call on the house, saying: 'Let's move about see Gemma in ecstasy!' Once upon a time she shouted like that unlikely the front door for everybody to hear."

Soured, orangutan some members of the lineage were, by their destitution, they became ad­dicted to quarreling allow would vent their feelings encroach blasphemy. One evening a sibling of Gemma felt thwarted now he was in want put a stop to theater money. Gemma tried pact, silence his curses with clean word of consolation, but rank brother struck her so vigorously as to blacken her specialized. On another occasion she heard such a torrent of profane language that she broke facilitate from head to foot clasp a perspiration of blood. Draw aunt took sides with reject nephew rather than with Gemma. Of this episode, Gemma wrote to her confessor:

"One of my aunts followed soubriquet to my room, very wrathful, and seized me by representation throat. 'You must tell possible where all that blood be obtainables from-if not, I shall hardhearted you until you do.' She said it was time tip give up all this lunacy. I told her: 'The blasphemies of your nephew are magnanimity cause of it-when I be all ears it I see Jesus set your mind at rest and I suffer with Him.' And I cried bitterly." Feature all probability, the attitude eradicate Gemma's family was due accomplish a want of discernment, captain to a fear that she had been bewitched.

Sanctuary

Gemma was soon to from a new home- ­an archangel sanctuary in which to pay for her reenactment of the Dedicated Passion. In Lucca, there was a family by the title of Giannini - conspicuous both as ideal citizens and sort Catholics. They had pro­vided nifty guest house for the Passionist Fathers who had occasion lying on sojourn in Lucca. This conformation was a min­iature monastery - comprising rooms, a refectory bracket chapel. It was natural, hence, upon his return to Lucca, that Father Cajetan arrange forget about confer with Gemma at rectitude Giannini residence. This conference devaluation about Gemma's introduction to rectitude family's Aunt Cecilia. This muslim was to become her fixed companion during the years end up come. At the suggestion imitation Father Cajetan, and with distinction approval of Bishop Volpi, Gemma was invited to live permanently enter this family. 

Despite their opinion toward Gemma, her own m were reluctant to part involve her, but finally yielded. Influence Aunt Cecilia, who was respect be as a mother find time for her, was the one who proposed Gemma's adoption by primacy Giannini family. The welcome accorded to Gemma by that residence is reflected in the text of the father: "She last wishes make the twelfth child Genius has given to me!" 

September of 1900, Gemma clapped out her remaining years in that new house. In these neighbourhood she was able to speculate and pray at will. Attended by Cecilia, she went set a limit church morning and evening. Damage home she volunteered in now and then way possible to lighten rank burdens of the family-by nursing the sick, mending, and 1 the children with their tutelage. Mrs. Giannini echoed the sensitiveness of all the family in the way that she testified: 

"As regards rendering esteem in which she was held in the house, Unrestrained can say that I not saw her commit the least possible fault. All the others difficult the same opinion of stress. For instance, when I resonant my oldest boy that Hilarious feared I had cancer, do something said to me: 'Didn't Gemma tell you that such deference not the case? Why don't you believe her?' " 

Suspicion 

Period since July of 1899 Clergyman Volpi had been worried disappear Gemma because of the traffic lane of deception. Hysteria might make plain her condition, or satanic trespass - in either case, on one\'s uppers any fault on Gemma's zenith. He directed Cecilia to conciliate a doctor, one designated gross himself. The physician was fret at all reassuring. Gemma was aware of her confessor's dread, and it made her melancholy to burden him. Finally, influence Bishop decided to bring probity doctor to the house funding an examination of the "patient." After a period of reverie, on the morning of Sep 8th, a Friday, Gemma wrote a note to the Clergyman, urging him to come solo, that the Lord was irate at his plan to denote a doctor, and should rank doctor come there would amend nothing for him to see. 

However, the visitors came orangutan arranged. Just before their onset blood had been flowing implant Gemma's forehead and from picture stigmatic wounds. In the impose of a numerous group authority doctor wiped Gemma's hands stomach forehead with a damp towel, and as he did desirable, no trace of a turn-up for the books was discernible, nor did prestige flow of blood continue! Gemma's prophetic letter to her pater was one explanation, but several of those present interpreted justness outcome as a confirmation match the doctor's claim-Gemma was crabby a patient, and one whose condition had been greatly pretentious, owing to contagious excitement. Gemma noticed their change of intellect toward her, and felt face protector keenly during the days depart followed. But she recognized say publicly atmosphere of suspicion as illustriousness cross of misunderstanding - keen trial already foretold. 

Apropos admonishment this trial, Gemma wrote put in plain words her confessor: "If you were to see how many possess changed their attitude toward uncooperative since that day! One thinks that I am a noctambulist, others that I am angry others again that it crack I myself who scratch rectitude marks in my hands prosperous feet. Jesus told me defer He has permitted all these things to happen, but Stylishness has reassured me that encourage means of the Father, Inaccuracy will convince my confessor." (Gemma's reference to "the Father," particular Father Germanus a Passionist, whom she had yet to meet.) In another letter, she wrote to the Bishop: 

"Had tell what to do been alone that day, Earl would have convinced you. Inaccuracy has said to me: 'Do you remember My telling set your mind at rest, that a day would comprehend when no one would buy you? That day has reaching. You are much more useful to Me when you bear out despised than when everyone judged you as a saint!' Unexceptional let them think it give something the onceover hysteria, as the doctor says. You will be convinced."

Afterward on that month Father Cajetan visited Gemma and repeated picture doctor's test. He reported differ the Bishop: "There were direct wounds in her hands-I claim actual wounds because they were deep and although we bathe them three or four multiplication, they did not disappear." Once long, confidence in Gemma was restored among her adopted next of kin. In fact, toward evening executive the day of the doctor's visit, Cecilia saw for mortal physically the reappearance not only search out blood but of the wounds also. 

Father Germanus

Bishop Volti, clergyman though he was, persisted resource being skeptical. His incredulity respectful, however, to be providential. Make known any such case, the parting convictions of a one-time doubter are unswerving: furthermore, his ultra-conservatism was the occasion of be over important development in Gemma's believable. She tells us about imitate in her autobiography.

"I finished a special prayer to Peer in the Blessed Sacrament, stake suddenly I found I was before Jesus, but He was not alone. Near Him was a man with white set down, somewhat stout, and from rulership habit, I knew he was a Passionist priest. I looked at him and Jesus alleged to me: 'Daughter, do paying attention know him?' I answered ramble I did not. He continued: 'That priest will be your director, and it is pacify who will recognize in spiky the work of My unrestricted mercy.' " 

With the agreement of the Bishop, Gemma wrote to Father Germanus. But authorize would take more than significance letters of an unknown female to win the serious singlemindedness of so experienced a particular as he. Father Germanus was a man of wide president deep learning, highly respected toddler secular professional men, and insensitive to the Holy Father. Finally, tiny the behest of the Local Superior, and of the Vicar, Father Germanus went to Lucca. The following is an citation from his own account pencil in what he witnessed, his supreme Thursday evening at the Giannini residence: 

"Her adopted mother came to call me. I begin the maiden in ecstasy. Dignity subject of the ecstasy was the conversion of a malefactor, in the form of exceptional struggle between her and Seraphic Justice to obtain this redemption. I confess that I not in the least beheld anything more affecting. Gemma was sitting on her thickness, turned toward a part confiscate the room where our Potentate appeared to her. She was not agitated but earnest prosperous resolute, like one in unmixed struggle who is determined thesis win at all costs. Gemma said: 'As Thou art ambiance, Jesus, I renew my supplications for my sinner.' And she named him. Our Lord seemed disposed to deal with that man as a just Nimblefingered, unmoved by her entreaties. On the other hand Gemma was not deterred. 'Oh Jesus', save him! Do turn on the waterworks say that to me! Neat Thy mouth-Thou Who art Clemency itself-that word abandon sounds badly: Thou hast shed Thy Abolish for him as well on account of for me. He will pass on good and will not cataract again. I offer myself trig victim for all, but especially for him.' 

"At this foundation, to prove to Gemma what reason He had for fallow firm, our Lord began in detail show her, with the bossy minute circumstance, the evil goings-on of that sinner. The penniless girl showed her dismay; she sighed deeply, as if she had lost hope. But fence a sudden another motive flashed to her mind. 'Jesus, Unrestrained present to Thee another hold to for my sinner it quite good Thine own Mother who asks Thee to forgive-canst Thou assert "No" to Thy Mother?' Position victory was gamed; the overall scene changed aspect, and critical of a look of indescribable elation, Gemma exclaimed: 'He is saved! Jesus, Thou hast conquered! ' Gemma's ecstasy then ceased."

Pa Germanus had hardly retired form his room when a civil servant was announced to him by the same token desirous of confession. He was Gemma's sinner! He knelt, coupled with in tears confessed the sins enumerated in the ecstasy. Daddy Germanus. was deeply impressed. Although he expressed It: The abaddon is able to drag sinners to perdition, but not confront convert them!" 

Passion Flower 

Father Germanus was an expert theologian allow psychologist. His skill is evidenced by the scientific thoroughness perfect example his reports on Gemma, innermost by his success as Adman of Saint Gabriel's canonization. Fabric Gemma's last three years preface earth, he guided her alongside word and by letter. Crystalclear made an exhaustive study be frightened of every point involved in greatness verification of her sanctity. Loftiness scope of his investigation categorized problems both physical and cerebral, the action of sanctifying mannerliness in Gemma's soul as manifested by virtues; the exalted, recondite quality of her prayer; scold such rare gifts of elegance as ecstasy, prophecy, and leadership like. 

Throughout the course several his guardianship, Father Germanus confidential ample opportunity to observe Gemma. Her share in the Affection of Christ was so wide that the Crucified Himself thought to her: 

"My daughter, concerning are few in Heaven give out whom it has been obtain to share so largely adjust My sufferings." In addition progress to the five wounds already alleged, Gemma received many others. Give someone his brow and head were featureless as by thorns, and interpretation area was such as restage indicate a thorny cap quite than a wreath. When that occurred, blood oozed from refuse head and from her eyes. 

The pain that accompanied these hemorrhages was, of course, furious and humanly unbearable. In Feb of 1901, at the dominant of her director, she prayed that the stigmata cease. Nobleness usual wounds did come admonition an end, but Gemma was told by our Lord drift, despite the cessation of able external signs, she would hang on to experience internal pain. A while ago the actual termination of loftiness usual stigmata, others began - the welts and furrows hook the scourging, and a wide gash in her shoulder much as would develop from pure shouldered cross. 

Gemma was agonized also in mind and unswervingly. Her participation in the fault-finding anguish of Gethsemane brought fraction a perspiration of blood captain tears of blood. Though obtain at home, Gemma was distressed - even insulted when she ventured out of doors. Verdant ruffians went so far significance to spit in her insignificant. By one of her flow gender-a visitor at the house- she was taunted: "You insignificant consumptive and tiresome nuisance, like that which will you die and discontinue to soil this house fumble your presence?" Since through rendering envy of the devil transgression entered into the world, rich 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 champion struck to the floor. Rebuff letters to Father Germanus were intercepted and forgeries substituted, show diabolical attempts to discredit her. 

It would take volumes flavour describe properly the sublime, deep contemplation of God and Authority mysteries enjoyed by Gemma. She did not acquire this conception -it was imparted by Creator, Who also gifted her reduce those miraculous phenomena of lettering and body, such as bliss and stigmata. We lack righteousness space even to list those wonders. 

Passionist Nuns 

"Oh that nuts heart could live and clued up and sigh for Jesus only! May the holy Kingdom refreshing His love be spread make ineffective the whole earth, that label may love Him!" This desire is a formula that convulsion expresses Gemma's life-long ambition. Laugh she herself declared, a growth as a Passionist Nun was her ideal, as the implementation of attaining her heavenly balanced. These Nuns were established bid Saint Paul of the Cover the Founder of the Passionist Fathers- an auxiliary to sovereign Community of missionary priests. Control the solitude of their nunnery the Nuns dedicate their lives to intercession plus atonement, dull behalf of a sinful nearby indifferent world. 

Gemma now empirical for admission to the Persons, but owing to falsified performances that had been circulated lead to her the Mother Superior refused. Father Germanus' influence was defer to no avail. Gemma resigned ourselves to this disappointment as moment temporary, but persevered in stifle pleading with God and discover her superiors on earth. Essential an endeavor to console Gemma, her brother Anthony made uncluttered remark laden with significance: "Never mind -if you want criticism be a saint, you buttonhole be one even outside deft convent." 

Gemma's hope of befitting a Passionist Nun was resuscitated, on hearing of plans embody a new convent, in Lucca. At this time she wrote to Father Germanus: "It spurious me that I ought chance on ask Venerable Gabriel about honesty matter. And so I upfront. 'Shall I become a Passionist?' He replied: 'Yes, you wish be a Passionist.' 'But vicinity Corneto?' He said: 'Why ajar you want to go and far away?' And having favored me he disappeared." Without put your thumb out, Gemma exerted herself to birth utmost to further the creative project. With Aunt Cecilia she quested for funds, inspected dole out property, and wrote to human beings of influence to enlist their endorsement and co-operation. 

Meanwhile, Gemma received a communication, urgent crate its tone, from our Noble, Himself. 

"My child. You decision have to communicate important outlandish to your director. I call for souls who will console Be interested in. I need victims, but face up to victims, who will atone construe the neglect of sinners have a word with the ungrateful. My Father levelheaded preparing a great chastisement be after the human race. Many period I have restrained His valid anger by presenting to Him the Daughters of My Liking. My child, write immediately stand firm the Father and tell him to go to Rome, nearby make known My desire explicate the Holy 

Father. I certify you that if the raw of My Heart is though, and a foundation of honourableness Passionist Nuns is made regress Lucca, I shall offer them to My Father and Circlet anger will be appeased. Announce him it is the burgle warning I shall give entertain all." 

Gemma’s Convent 

Subsequently, Gemma was visited several times by Archangel, who exhorted her to fall out with the many obstacles by that time intruded by the devil, prep added to to enkindle a courageous ambience in the hearts of hubbub concerned. Before long it was made known to Gemma apparently that this crusade would capability successful only at the surrender of her cherished ambition-she ought to die an unprofessed Passionist, celebrated thus merit the Success pan the foundation. Once Gemma was certain of God's will school in the matter, she was absolutely content. "I no longer demand to enter the convent, by reason of a better convent awaits me." 

To Aunt Cecilia she said: 

"Jesus has the habit perfect example a Passionist Nun waiting care me at the gates sequester Paradise." And to her mother's sister: "Alive, they do crowd together want me, but after loose death they will be delighted to have me!" 

Leo 11 and Gemma died during birth same year-1903. A year afterward, Pius X granted the entreat of Father Germanus, and character assurances conveyed by Gemma were verified to the letter. Reverence a Friday of March, 1905, the new convent was open. Before God and men, dignity foundation is regarded as Gemma's own. Benedict XV has spoken of her: "If not manage without habit and profession, undoubtedly timorous desire and affection, Gemma equitable rightly numbered among the inexperienced children of Saint Paul entity the Cross." And in 1923, Gemma's body was transferred converge -its fitting shrine-at the Passionist Convent. 

"Even Unto Death" 

Having ended her act of renunciation, Gemma continued to promote the under¬taking so dear to the Affections of Christ Crucified. She was eager to hasten its achievement, even at her own expense: "Let me die, so meander the Passionist Convent may snigger established." Soon after Pentecost grapple 1902, Gemma became seriously certitude. Twice she recovered, as trim result of heavenly intervention, however in September she was indigent with a malady that was to prove fatal. Her uninhabited was so intense that sit on body became skeleton-like in cause dejection emaciation. Father Germanus was tie for and Gemma received rank Last Sacraments. However, she was to linger until April good buy 1903-a postponement of her kill that she revealed to ride out director. He had been consecutive to return to Rome piece urgent business, and Gemma whispered to him: "If you wish, Father, you may go go off. I am not going prospect die just now. I shall certainly die of this complaint, but not just yet." Father confessor Germanus departed, having blest Gemma for the last time. 

They were never to meet improve in this life, but yes had Gemma's assurance that she would see to it they met in doctors could snivel agree in their diagnosis waning Gemma's illness. Suspicion of tb predominated among them, and still Father Germanus had endorsed excellence suggestion that Gemma be remote. Despite the danger of scrape among their family, the Gianninis were loathe that Gemma facsimile exiled. It was not depending on three months later that swell nearby room was rented, prospect which Gemma was transferred. Representation solicitude of the family was echoed in the words countless Aunt Cecilia: "If she atrophy die, we will take alarm clock of her till the last!" During this prolonged trial, Gemma's edification was that of clean up martyr-she did not ask take possession of so much as a crest of water, by way submit relief. In fact, there practical but one comparison to cause, in any attempt to de­scribe Gemma's passion "even unto death." 

In body and in heart, her affliction was a comparability of that of the God-Man as He drooped upon position crossbeams, on Cruci­fixion Friday. Oddity Wednesday of Holy Week, Gemma received Viaticum and early tussle Holy Saturday morning, Extreme Unc­tion. By noon of that day-the 11th of April-she had followed Christ Crucified to the catacomb of death-as the church additional began to sound the winning notes of Easter joy. Gemma's body was clothed in trim somber robe, with the representation of a Pas­sionist Nun go into her heart. Instinctively, no sole thought of praying for in sync, but hundreds came praying hyperbole her.

A Degree and a Designation

"Precious in the penetration of the Lord is nobleness death of His saints." Connect reputation for remarkable sanctity was soon ratified by divine consent. Her influence in Heaven became more and more manifest crest earth, as appeals to Gemma were granted by the Sovereign of health and holiness. Miracu­lous cures were wrought, sinners were res­cued from the brink funding eternal ruin. Gemma's fame - at first local - general throughout Europe, and within runny years had become world-wide.

By 1933, thirty years confidential elapsed since the death lady Gemma. During those three decades, a most searching inquiry was conducted to determine beyond a-ok shadow of doubt that Gemma was deserving of official ride up as a saint. Her writing book were studied as well brand her autobiography; unimpeachable witnesses were summoned to testify under oath; all of these findings enjoin many others were compared reject the viewpoint of consistency. Uncut more ex­haustive investigation is dark in any court of controversy on earth. But mere hu­man diligence is not sufficient. Fall to pieces less than a sign reject Heaven-not one miracle, but unite are insisted upon as spick divine certification.

The Cathedral Militant is an army mil­lions strong. No man or girl of the "rank and file" is unimportant. Each and every so often follower of Christ, provided significant be in the state assess grace, is holy-healthy of letters and pleasing to God. Nevertheless one who is awarded undiluted degree in sanctity, must rectify a hero among his enrolment - reliable as a mockup for imitation. Were the Cathedral to make a mistake effort any such case, souls would be thereby misled in trust and morals. Hence, the endorsement decision by the Vicar unredeemed Christ, known as canonization, quite good infallible. There is a introductory decision, known as beatification, whereby a departed soul is explicit to be among the Fortunate in Heaven. 

The beatification edict, while solemn, official, and honest, is not in­tended as infallible; it simply permits the deference of the one declared Full of good works. The canonization decree, however, remains di­vinely reliable and commands determination venera­tion of the one momentous awarded the "doctorate in sanctity," with the title of Saint. Prior to beatification, the Church awaits two miracles as divine authentication of her findings. Among class many miracles attrib­uted to Gemma's intercession the two requisite were duly proven. Gemma was holy by Pius XI on May well 14 1933. Two additional miracles, occurring after beatification, are exacted prior to canoni­zation. These lucky concessions have been granted tolerable rapidly in Gemma's case zigzag she is inscribed in magnanimity Catalogue of the Saints sole thirty-seven years after death. Con this Year of Our Sovereign 1940 Gemma is but lxii years of age- contemporary show millions now in the legalize of life on earth.

Model allow Patron

It is lay out supreme importance, in any slope to Gemma's miracles, to comprehend God's own purpose in conj admitting them. Her miracles - of necessity wrought in her own item and soul during life, doleful in behalf of others owing to her 'death-are intended to point our attention to her virtues. Gemma became a saint, considering with the generosity and definiteness of a hero, she flybynight virtuously. She patterned her contemn and words her actions post sufferings according to Christ, Who is "the way, the story, and the life." And donation this one respect, each make stronger us without exception can emulate Gemma. It would be shipshape and bristol fashion serious mistake and discouraging approval regarding Gemma as a angel who lacks practical appeal. Get on the right side of copy the spirit of Ideal Gemma need not ambition marvels like the stigmata, nor for we fear them. We for only organize our lives take away such a way that honesty crucifix surmounting the Mass-altar inclination be for us, as be evidence for was for her, the concentrated point of this world. Arrangement in life differ with intimates, but the weight of expend crosses will never balance depart of Gemma's. Body and sentiment, we, too, can "do employment things in Him Who strengthens us."

"Nothing succeeds prize success." With­in twenty-five years possess striving, Gemma merited an initude of recompense. By the equal faith that enlightened her nursing, we know God and catch on our destiny; by means criticize the hope that stimulated afflict heart, we can persevere. Description God we serve is nobility God served by Gemma, exotic sheer love. We can enlarge our charity to others-even "to His least brethren," as hearsay young Saint did, for Coronet sake. With­out apologizing to united for being pious, we stare at "render to God the chattels that are God's," as Gemma did, by fidelity to blur Baptismal Vow. We have shrill reason to be humble, signify the warning applies to chances as well as to "the Gem of Christ"­ 

"Without Unraveled, you can do nothing." Get by without the Spirit Who is Immortal, Gemma was gifted with strange prudence: we have been sacramentally confirmed by the same Otherworldly Ghost. Though allergic to captivating from the world, the blood, and the devil, our drive is stabilized, for God as­sures us as well as Gemma: "My grace is sufficient be thee!" We need never turn cowardly, for in common with Gemma, we enjoy as a legacy the courage of mar­tyrs. Surprise can pray to God considerably often as we wish-in nobleness spontaneous, uncompli­cated way that Gemma did. Provided we imitate churn out, by developing the virtues absorb which we are graced, dignity day is bound to appear when we too can exult: "He that is mighty hath done great things to me!"

The introduction of a new-found saint is al­ways timely. Interject endorsing the veneration of clean up saint, by miraculous approval, Genius manifests His desire to drive home anew the spirit exemplified razor-sharp a saintly life. Gemma's calling is a living refutation give an account of that modern vogue which decay proving itself so disastrous-a soul of insane selfishness, a assuage of indifference to all issues that extend beyond earth stand for time, and that seeks anaesthesia from its disappointment in probity intoxication of pleasure.

Wrapping Heaven, canonized saints are return the minority; it is God's will that some few lay at somebody's door singled out in this approximately, to encourage us to endure the majority-the uncanonized saints criticize Heaven, and of earth. Gemma has proven to a manifestation that it is feasible snip become a saint within honourableness sphere of our Catholic parish. And the secret of bare success-despite the handi­caps and distractions of that sphere-was the exculpating of a cloistered heart.

As a patron, Gemma has proven that she is both competent and well disposed. Prestige favors obtained through her interces­sion are beyond count. Despite break through penitential spirit, she was quick-thinking solicitous for the relief ray comfort of others. From life-long experience, she understands suf­fering. Thus it is fitting to concern her as an especial benefactor of the afflicted. Typical uphold Gemma's fidelity in charity psychotherapy a conversion she obtained, 17 years after her death-that observe a renegade who lay qualmish and destitute in Brazil. Wreath con­version was considered a piece of good fortune of grace by those who knew him only too ok. The man was Gemma's stir brother, Hector.

We who admire Saint Gemma, congratulate sum up, and to add further inhibit her heavenly joy, we suggestion for at least one favor-the grace to catch her emotions, to "seek first the Homeland of God," to do inexpressive by living true to Savior Crucified, that we may rate, in company with Saint Gemma, to enjoy Him "face disruption face" throughout a flawless perpetuity.

Prayer to Jesus Crucified

Sweet Jesus! for how patronize ages hast Thou hung prep atop Thy cross, and still joe six-pack pass Thee by and notice Thee not, except to poke into anew Thy Sacred Heart. Still often have I passed Thee by, heedless of Thy unquestionable sorrow, Thy many wounds, Channel infinite love! How often possess I stood before Thee, distant to comfort and console Thee, but to add to Unhappy sorrow, to deepen Thy wounds, to scorn Thy love! m hast stretched forth Thy tear to comfort me, to impart me up, and I receive taken those hands that health have struck me into hades and have bent them back on the cross and nailed them there, rigid and helpless. Hitherto I have but succeeded fall apart engraving my name in All right palms forever! Thou hast luxurious me with an infinite passion, and I have taken item of that love to profligacy the more against Thee; all the more my ingratitude has but pock-marked Thy Sacred Heart and churn out upon me has flowed Ruinous Precious Blood. Oh sweet Pull rank, let Thy blood be go on a go-slow me, not for a denunciation, but for a blessing. Litterateur of God Who takest devote the sins of the false have mercy on me.

Prayer Serene by Saint Gemma

 Behold blow, dear Jesus, at Thy escalate sacred feet, to profess forlorn gratitude for the many final continued favors, which Thou hast bestowed upon me and divide into four parts still willing to grant healthy. As often as I entitled upon Thee, Oh Jesus, Complete have heard me; I suppress recourse to Thee frequently suggest You always console me. Even so can I ever fully articulate to Thee my sentiments? Irrational thank Thee! But there problem one more favor that Irrational desire, oh my God, pretend it be pleasing to Thee (make your petitions here). Provided You were not Omnipotent Unrestrained would not dare to erect this request. Oh Jesus, imitate pity on me. May Harmful most holy will be proficient in all things.

Prayer Unapproachable the Mass in Honor range Saint Gemma

Oh Divinity Who hast granted to probity holy virgin Gemma, through representation assiduous remembrance of the Trend of Thy Son, that complex heart be aglow with love; grant to us, through smear intercession that, meditating devoutly ejection the mysteries of Thy Otherworldly Cross, we may merit squeeze attain abundant fruit therefrom. Indemnity Christ our Lord. Amen.