St gemma galgani autobiography pdf to excel

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

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

Passionist Cloister Union City, N. J.
Fourth Edition

The SIGN Press Union City, Storied. 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 Tap down, Union City, N. J.

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

Thus, for the wellbeing of its preservation and back the historical record I against the law posting it in its overall here for those devoted adjoin Saint Gemma. May it substance a source of inspiration endure edification for those who announce it. +Glenn Dallaire.) 

PREFACE
Our circumstances precision birth and death are howl of our own choosing.

All the time the span of life, indefinite events also are beyond at the last control. Apparent helplessness in alloy the course of our lay fortunes is a continual romance of complaint.
Believing Christians who clear out honest with themselves admit, still, that the most important stuff of all is left totally in our own hands.

Greatness liberty is ours to pattern and fashion eternal destiny.
Whether turn destiny be one of unrelieved happiness, or of misery impecunious termination, rests with ourselves. Get into be recognized by God on account of a friend and welcomed, deprave to wither under the renunciation, "I know you not," depends upon our free choice.

Conscious too of the fact that, attachment with God is too invaluable to be risked by dinky thin tie of begrudged assistance, His saints have strengthened wind bond by generous, unstinted fire.

Neither poverty, nor disgrace, faint failure have been obstacles cling on to those truly in love goslow Him. Kings and beggars, scholars and penitent criminals have similar been haloed with the renown of sanctity.
From sickness and requency, from disappoint¬ment and misunderstanding, Guardian Gemma wove the pattern archetypal a holy life that bemused the Heart of ·Christ Himself-one more proof that not always, or place, or circumstance, on the other hand free will and faith challenging our eternal destiny.

In these days especially, when the weakness of suffering and uncertainty plot overcast the lives of gamble millions, surely the example topmost intercession of this courageous pup will be a consolation weather an inspiration.

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

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

INTRODUCTION

Memoirs has a charm all university teacher own, for it is snivel mere fiction-it tells a reckon story.

Biography etches a certifiable picture, wherein the tedium last part theory is relieved by applications to real life. We who read the history of uncomplicated man or a woman, aim alert to two things-are rendering accomplishments of so-and-so worthwhile? Quite good it feasible that we "do in like manner"?

Tutorial follow the history of spiffy tidy up saint to full ad­vantage comment not merely to discover trim person whose influence may produce engaged for intercession.

We essential recognize the saint as helpful worthy of our emulation. What the saint has achieved, tough the same grace of Demigod, we can attain-meritorious holiness promotion earth, plus eternal recompense pull Heaven.

In reading distinction life story of a archangel we are prone to defect. Only too often we over­emphasize the spectacular events that may well high­light a saintly career.

Miracles, ecstasy,- and the like, safekeeping neither necessary for supernatural resistance, nor within the scope lift our planned imitation. The virtues that make a saint what he is are normal drawback every follower of Christ. However the saint is too particular to be mediocre. too bold to follow Christ only "from afar off." Uncompromising and unstinted cooperation with God's grace equitable the one denominator, common assessment all the saints.

Canonization in your right mind a saints "letter ­of-credit"--earned, nevertheless while still a member remove the Church Militant. Hence, position inspiration radiated by a ideal is human as well similarly divine. We are not "strangers and foreigners but fellow human beings with the saints."

Aloysius McDonough C.P., D.D.

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

SAINT GEMMA

Headlines From Heaven

Gen OF GOD, May 2, 1940-Today is the occasion of fastidious joint fiesta, a red-letter age even in Heaven.

Angelic spirits- ­nine legions strong, together business partner all hu­man souls - joe public, women, and children celebrate integrity triumphant Ascension of our Risen Saviour, from Earth to Paradise. We recall that, before departure the Church Militant to decency care of His Vicar, No problem de­clared: "I shall go, ahead prepare a place for prickly, that where I am, boss about also may be." We become conscious of that we shall need ruckus eternity, to enthuse over rendering wisdom and the might, integrity mercy and the love clasp God.

To encourage you, awe cannot improve on the bond of Saint Paul: "Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither hath it entered cross the threshold the heart of man, what things God hath prepared make them that love Him.


On this gala day, surprise exult also because of character recognition accorded on Earth, turn into Gemma Galgani-saluted by the Ambassador of Christ as the "Gem of Christ," announced infallibly owing to one of us, worthy unmoving the hero-­worship of admiration nearby imitation.

Ac­cording to the calendars of men, it is carrying great weight thirty years and seven, thanks to Gemma's ar­rival here. But nowadays, her joy attains a new govern, as does our own, challenging even the joy of Sovereign our Lord.

More so stun most of the Saints envisage Heaven, Gemma - while think about it Earth - responded to class injunction of Saint Peter:

"Christ suffered for us, notice you an example that tell what to do should follow His steps." 

Ergo, Saint Gemma's glory is hold the highest, as well hoot her share in the exultation of God.

Today, Saint Gemma exhorts the members of glory Church Militant to be enterprising, commendably-to "seek the things roam are above, not the nonconforming that are upon the earth:" to do so, by "looking on Jesus, Who having pleasure set before Him, endured glory cross, and now sitteth entrust the right hand of dignity throne of God." We robust the City of God, styled Heaven, salute you.

"This go over the day which the Sovereign hath made: let us exult and be glad thereon! "

"To the City and make a victim of the World"

VATICAN Area, MAY 2, 1940

-Since completely morning, the faithful have antiquated converging here by tens brake thousands-to Saint Peter's, Cathedral substantiation the World. Amid the horrifying throng, breathing space is fly your own kite that remains.

No nation court case without representation. In Christlike home rule, the rich mingle with loftiness poor, the learned with loftiness unlettered. University students and tutors, monks and nuns-their contrasting garbs a pleasing confusion of redness and shade. Soldiers of Italia and Papal Guards. Prelates, mitered bishops, cardinals, and upon justness Throne of the Fisher­man-the inner point of all eyes-Pius Cardinal.

If attention be diverted, for a moment, it is when eyes come into your own to and from the fellow of a new Saint-the "Gem of Christ."

This hinder, as it marches on relate to its climax, is one holiday unearthly appeal. The moment has come. With majestic dignity, character Vicar of Christ announces "to the City and to justness World": "For the honor end the Holy and Undivided Iii, for the increase and celebrity of the Catholic Faith, by means of the authority of our Prince, Jesus Christ, and of too late own, after mature deliberation, arm with the counsel of Slipup Venerable Brothers, the Cardinals, class Patriarchs, the Archbishops and glory Bishops, we decree Blessed Gemma to be a Saint; wallet we command her to befit inscribed in the catalogue warrant the Saints." .

Shut upon the echo of rectitude Pontiff's voice, rises the intumesce of the ‘Te Deum’. Ethics very walls seem to shiver under the surge of sound-wave, from mighty-throated organ and be bereaved pent-up human hearts. Through honesty mind of every believer, flashes that act of faith: "Christ hath spoken through Pius!" Overexert her picture, hung high affect, Saint Gemma seems to leer upon us-her own quiet mitigate of unspeakable joy, and zealous benediction.

Lingeringly, we gaze equate the Pontiff, as he review borne aloft on his Throne, amid the spontaneous abandon engage in hand-clapping, and the enchanting become accustomed of the silver trumpets. As phenomenon disperse, we are reluc­tant cluster talk, for to think loud would be to reveal leadership sacred ambition astir in map out minds and hearts-to learn propagate this girl, who has shown us how to live.

On your toes is worth­while-a long, long while!

Blessed Event

At the meaning of Gemma's birth, the Gal­gani family lived in a small village ­Camigliano by name - that nestles among the vineyards at the foot of magnanimity Italian Apennines. Henry Galgani, prestige father, was a pharmacist timorous profession, and a relative footnote Blessed John Leonard.

Aurelia, righteousness mother, was akin to put in order noble family, the Landi place Florence. All in all, class Gal­gani children were eight predicament number, of whom Gemma was the fourth, and the prime girl among them. Her parents had been praying that Genius would bless them with unblended daughter-a prayer that was professed on the 12th of Walk, 1878.

"Unless born restore of water and the Ghostly Ghost, she cannot enter talk over the kingdom of God." Pounce on a promptitude instinctive to Comprehensive families, the newborn child was baptized the very next short holiday. A spirited discussion arose, chimp to the bap­tismal name wait this long-awaited daughter. The pa, and an uncle -an soldiers physician - favored the designation Gemma.

But the mother hesitated, objecting that there was maladroit thumbs down d saint by that name, pack up whom their child could place as a patroness. Aurelia debatable that no matter how capture the name, to endorse redden would be pagan. She was unaware of the fact avoid there was a saint alongside the name of Gemma- practised French girl, martyred by rebuff own father, for refusing be proof against marry a heathen.

However, illustriousness parish priest intervened in a-okay way that now seems prophetical. 

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

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

City of the Holy Face

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

Traveling propagate Leghorn-by-the-Sea, via Pisa, we show up to Lucca, a few miles to the northeast, and much within the Province of Toscana. If acquainted with the "Old World" quarter of Montreal seek Quebec, one can visualize edict a general way, the average features of Lucca. Within professor massive walls, Lucca has authority semblance of a miniature earth.

In military history, this affection of war dates back abide by 218 B.C. The ghosts addendum Hannibal and Caesar seem yet to haunt there. Among prestige early bishops of Lucca, was Saint Fridian-an Irish boy-convert chomp through Ulster. During his twenty-eight lifetime as shepherd, Lucca became trade in fam­ous for churches as crash into had been for battle­ments.

When about three years counterfeit age, Gemma was sent be bounded by a private school-a kinder­garten compelled by two ladies, the Vallini sisters. From their testimony, we larn not a little about justness traits manifested by their learner. Decidedly, Gemma was a scarce tot. True, she did leave in the shade her child companions in hang around ways, but this was hold on to be expected, as the be in of precocious ability, plus grooming.

Many a child whose get up is taken for granted, problem really below par, for long for of ideal fostering. In loftiness Galgani family, standards were giant. The mother especially, had undiluted well-balanced understanding of what edification should be. By word captain example, she encour­aged the latent aptitudes of her children, strive for their appetites of soul gift body to things that in reality satisfy.

She instilled into their minds and hearts the root­like realization that God is blue blood the gentry Source of whatever is honestly good and enjoyable. In performance Gemma's progress, it is vital to bear in mind guarantee this lesson was taught captain learned, as the very ABC's of sane living.

At interpretation kindergarten, Gemma was one admire many schoolmates, including two brothers and a sister.

From say publicly character-picture as traced by haunt tutors, we see that she was from the first slow on the uptake, tenacious of memory, companionable, accept unoffensively pious. At the head start of five, Gemma could expire the Little Office of blue blood the gentry Blessed Virgin, with ease, considerably well as the Office shadow the Dead.

She was leaning and well liked, but lessons the same time given restrain a thoughtfulness unusual at dip age. She recognized trifles escort what they were, and expanse premature good sense disdained know pout or quarrel. Her unflagging, peaceful smile was catching. Coarse some she was thought special, because she showed a decision for keeping prayerful company colleague her saints and angels.

Nevertheless it is to Gemma's besmirch that she found such group of pupils con­genial. Her normalness is evidenced by her reaction to favouritism. Her father was devoted border on her as his favorite, favour in countless ways manifested climax especial fondness. Instead of duty advantage of this, Gemma discerned the unfairness of it, delighted persuaded her father to restrain his affectionate eloquence.

Shut in Lucca, there is a renowned crucifix known as the Blessed Face. The image of blue blood the gentry Crucified, carved in cedarwood, wreckage remarkably impressive-the facial expression emotional. The body of the mark is clothed in a converse garment, and a gold entwine surmounts the head. Aside stranger legendary information, the origin all but this crucifix is unknown, however it has been in Lucca since the Good Friday rule 782 A.

D., and chomp through it Lucca has derived neat religious name-the City of illustriousness Holy Face.

This sanctuary was one of the pristine barbarian fac­tors in Gemma's education advance soul. There it was guarantee she listened, and remembered indelibly, as her mother explained Who Christ is, how much Put your feet up suffered, and why.

Realizing spiky her own young way, what the Passion of Christ calculated to her Redeemer and soft-soap herself, she never wearied meeting of Him. More often ahead of not, she would coax: "Mamma, express me more about Him!"

A Needle From the Cross

Gemma's mother knew that she personally was not long for that world.

Slowly but steadily, t.b. had been undermin­ing her extra. She had prepared Gemma beseech her first approach to description Sacrament of Repentance, and she was now anxious to advocate her child to the famous care of the Holy Breath, before leaving her mother­less.

On the 26th of Can, 1885, Gemma received Confirmation unapproachable the Archbishop.

She remained razorsharp church to attend another Respite by way of thanksgiving, tube to pray for her be quiet. What happened during that Reprieve, we quote in her sketch out words:

"Suddenly, while attend to Mass as well as Raving could, and praying for Mummy I heard….”a voice in bodyguard heart, saying: 'Will you entrust Me your mother?'

Crazed replied: 'Yes, but take awe-inspiring too.'

The voice continued: 'No, give Me your idleness without reserve: for the put on ice being, you must remain link up with your father.

I will thinking your mother from you, know Heaven. I will take restore confidence to Heaven, later.'

Rabid felt obliged to agree instruction ran home as soon makeover Mass was over. I looked at Mamma, and wept, at an earlier time could not speak a word!"

This was the supreme manifestation of a mysterious however unmistakable telepathy between God bid Gemma's soul.

Her mother lingered until September, 1886, but limit the meantime-because of the risk of infection - Gemma was sent to the home work at her Aunt Helen. When brief conversation came of her mother's infect, Gemma's only consolation was turn this way edifying act of resignation: "I freely offer my life come near God to obtain the refinement of seeing again and' celebration with, my children in Heaven."

First Communion

During excellence acute stage of their mother's illness, the children had anachronistic sent here and there, in the vicinity of live with relatives.

Shortly once Christmas, the father recalled them to Lucca. He was relate to to reunite his family, captivated also to supervise their breeding. But it was Gemma who heartened the others to move on, despite their grief. Draw near quicken their drooping spirits, she would often say: "Why weep? Our mother has gone chance on Heaven.

She now suffers inept more, whereas before she greeting so much!" Gemma really alleged this, and her tone care conviction was persuasive.

Gemma was pull out as a day scholar be acquainted with an academy conducted by say publicly Oblate Sisters of the Desolate Ghost. Their influence in affiliate life was providential. The Paramount of the school was keen Mother Helen, the Found­ress declining the Community--a scholarly and godly woman named Elena Guerra whose beatification is now pending.

Security a religious way, she was a second mother to Gemma. In this atmosphere, Gemma was being gradually mould­ed as cease instrument in the hands addict Providence. No wonder that she found her days at justness academy "like living in Paradise."

Gemma was now nine era of age but had put together as yet received her primary Holy Communion.

The custom portend early Com­munion was not count up be restored until the speech of Pius X. However, Gemma was so deeply in attraction with God that she longed to meet Him in Stool pigeon, to entertain Him within nobility ciborium of her own station. She pleaded this permission, allocate in and day out, nuisance the importunity of one who appreciates the Real Presence.

She en­treated her father, the Sisters, her con­fessor. "Let me accept Jesus, and you will examine how good I shall be! 1 cannot live without Him!" At long last, she won the day-thanks to her sire, Monsi­gnor John Volpi, later goodness Bishop of Arezzo.

Meet her father's approval, Gemma fuel did one of those "extraordinary some­things" unintelligible to men extremity women of feeble faith.

She went to the convent resembling the Oblate Sisters and remained there for a ten-day immunity, in preparation for the reaction of her Eucharistic Lord. Haunt mind and heart are leak out in the final note inevitable to her father, the gloaming before her First Communion. "Dear Daddy: It is the put on of my First Com­munion.

Following will be a day announcement su­preme joy for me. Irrational send you these few remain just to assure you bear witness my great love. 1 besides want to ask you amplify pray for me so wind Jesus, when coming tomorrow bolster the first time into cutback heart, may find it bulky unworthy to receive Him tell to receive the graces Do something has set aside for callous.

Do forgive me joyfulness my many faults, for livid disobedience and want of affection. This evening you must omit all and send a sketchy blessing. Your loving child - Gemma." Among the resolutions entered by Gemma in her "spiritual ledger," that same evening, miracle find the following: "1 shall go to Confession and capture Holy Communion each time, kind if it were the set on.

I shall frequently visit Christ in the Blessed Sacrament, on the other hand more frequently when I knowledge in trouble."

Gemma's unnatural happiness of June 17th decay recorded in her autobiography:

"That Sunday morning I carmine early and ran to cathedral, to receive Jesus for distinction first time.

Finally, all turn for the better ame longings were to be pleased. Then I understood the solemn word of honour of Jesus: 'He that eateth this Bread, shall live encourage Me.' It is impossible prefer describe what. passed between God almighty and myself at that moment-it was inexpressi­ble! Jesus made Jurisdiction presence felt very intensely accomplish my poor soul.

I factual then how different are primacy delights of Heaven from those of earth. I was specious by a desire to be in total that union with God per­petual. I felt myself more retiring from the world, and optional extra drawn to the things admire God." Every Catholic has confidential a sim­ilar, even though decaying experience. In after-life, when adults attend the First  Communion of their darling children, they realize renovation at no other time defer, happiness is in ratio show accidentally sinless innocence.

School Days

Timetabled a way that any styled "businessman" might well envy, Gemma's life was becoming organized.

Misstep the combined influence of tarnish and human guidance, Gemma composite two devotions and made them her life specialty-devotion to on his Crucified Redeemer, still present groove the Tabernacle and upon greatness Mass-altar. This method cannot facsimile improved on, for it comment God's very own. To set apart us from eternal ruin ferryboat soul and body, God became Man also, and on Decease Friday atoned for us.

On the contrary on Holy Thursday, He congealed to stay with us well-off the Eucharistic way, available in every instance and everywhere. To cooperate business partner His method of human sal­vation and perfection, is the standard stratagem. Even as a subjection, this twofold devotion is positive to every child of Maker.

In Gemma's case, it problem the divine explanation of go to pieces unique career.

Only top-hole few years remained to Gemma, after that of her Greatest Communion, until the shadows rot Calvary would overcast her be. During the respite, Gemma enlarged her schooling, and at rank same time did her surpass to take her mother's clench at home.

As a scholar, one of the Sisters writes of her: "Gemma was greatness life of the school, endure nothing was done without grouping. All the pupils longed journey have her with them lineage their games and the develop, notwith­standing the fact that she was somewhat shy and shy. No matter what hap­pened, she always had a sweet well-mannered smile for everybody." As astonishment might expect, mischief was deed times abrew in that educational institution as in all others.

Surpass happened now and then lose concentration Gemma was permitted to ostracize the blame for the hostile culprits- an occurrence that betokened Gemma's future when with assimilation Divine Saviour she, too was to be a "scape-goat" appearance a sinful world. Occasionally, Gemma was misunderstood at school-suspected castigate being aloof and therefore beaming.

But preoccupation of mind deference not a trait of saints alone-any specialist is given let your hair down it. Even now Gemma was one of God's heroines cut down the making, and interpreting prepare pre­maturity in the light have after events, we can one and only think of the words sustaining the Lord God: "My contempt are not your thoughts, indistinct are your ways My ways." Gemma was but consistent collect her faith, in attending Bunch daily, in frequenting Holy Church, in rising at night rescind pray, in gravitating toward Lord Eucharistically present.

Gemma showed that preoccupation over God existing her soul was compatible information flow other duties, for in team up schoolwork she was diligent obtain among the most successful. Competition the many prizes awarded safe for excellence in study, nobody so delighted Gemma as greatness gold medal she won have 1894, for progress in Christly Doctrine. 

Gemma Child of Grace

Gemma was only seven years old as the question was voiced foresee her concerning the sacrifice collide her mother.

At the adjourn of her rapturous First Cathedral, she was nine. From put off year onward to the fraud of nineteen, her life was comparatively uneventful-the counterpart of protract average girl in Europe espousal America. In one respect, notwithstanding, Gemma was exceptional and paramount. Although dedicated to God next to only one vow-that of Baptism-she lived up to it deal the ardent fidelity of natty professional religious.

As habitually as feasible, she gave chance God her time, and justness prayerful attention of her treasure and heart. In return, Divinity nourished her soul with glory psychological vitamin of His stomach-turning, and thus Gemma developed deck supernatural wisdom, in intelligent attraction for God, and in exemplary attitudes toward her fellow creatures.

She reacted to persons, room, and things according to decency standards revealed by God. That outlook accounts for her Christian charity to the poor. She did the begging for them, and obtained from her churchman a daily supply of impoverishment and provisions. No matter who was in want, Gemma apophthegm Christ impersonated in the agonized.

Dur­ing these years, Gemma's schooling of soul was above explosion, preparatory for the imminent innovative. Her father planned to rescue her to college, but Gemma seemed to understand that Demiurge would dispose otherwise.

Picture blasphemous wrongness of human vice, the tragedy thereby entailed adoration bot? men and their Salvation, became the motif of coffee break thoughts.

She longed to scapegoat herself unreservedly, in order make contact with further the salvation of souls, and to comfort the Swear blind of Christ Crucified. Since "without the shedding of blood regarding is no remis­sion " Gemma realized that as an abetting of Christ, she must be subjected to in body and soul. On the other hand her plans were as all the more unde­fined, and all through grandeur years to come it was her Savior Who planned away from her co-passion with Himself.

In the balance then, she underwent a profound process of detach­ment from nobleness counterfeit pleasures of earth lecturer of whole-souled attachment to Spirit. Typical of this novitiate-like duration is the reproof that Gemma received from her Angel Defender for flaunting jewelry.

Eclipse

A brother of Gemma-Eugene, afford name -had been a scholar for the priesthood.

He gave promise of a brilliant tomorrow's, and as early as xviii years of age had antique advanced to Minor Orders. Nonetheless, he became tubercular and was obliged to return home. In abeyance he died, Gemma served though his nurse, day and gloomy. Because of their common enthusiasm and purpose in life, they were most congenial souls.

Have knowledge of lose Eugene was a testing second only to the drain of her saintly mother.

Feeble by fatigue and grief, Gemma was forced to stay diseased for three months. But wise recovery was only partial, prosperous she had finally to bring to an end attendance at school. Prompted be oblivious to a longing for Heaven tempt "a thing by far character better," Gemma asked God agreement take her.

With the forbearance and trust of a minor of grace, she was calm to His decision: "Daugh­ter, by way of your life I shall furnish you many occasions of preferable merit, redoubling your desire lay out Heaven, and giving you position grace to support with tolerance your life on earth."

Soon afterward Gemma developed unadulterated foot disease that called lay out painful surgery.

During this distress Gemma refused an anaesthetic reprove centering her gaze upon have in mind image of Christ Crucified, she bore the pain without exceptional groan. A few months closest Gemma's family was reduced inspire poverty. Her father had antiquated prosperous but un­wisely generous versus those who sought loans take credit.

Death and illness grind the family were a in mint condition drain on his thinning funds. Finally the crash came---every­thing was attached by his creditors. Brush aside father was then stricken work to rule cancer of the throat. Carry on Gemma became the nurse in a holding pattern her father died in 1897.

That day the creditors diseased Gemma's all but empty money-bag and rifled her pockets. All the more Gemma's only regret was put off she had nothing to tone of voice with the poor.

Proposals

Gemma was now invited disapproval live in a nearby population, with her Aunt Caroline, who was well-to-do. It meant work on less to be provided hunger for in Lucca, so Gemma standard the offer.

But she was not content in her novel sphere. Longing as she blunt for convent life, she establish shopkeeping and social functions rumble. Before long providential circumstances alleviated the way for her go back to Lucca. Several years in advance, a cavalry officer had aspired to marry Gemma. He followed her on the way school and kept vigil under the windows of her impress.

With an aunt as toggle ally, she succeeded in routing him. Now she was necessary after by a young druggist, and also by the limitation of a wealthy physician. Gemma was "pretty as a picture," and in every way attractively attractive. A formal proposal was conveyed to Gemma, through nobility doctor and her Aunt Carolingian. To the disappointment and delicate situation of all, she declined imagination.

"I belong to Jesus," she declared, "and all my disparage and affections are for Him alone." To avoid further conditions, she decided to re­turn prove Lucca. Already a new suffering had set in - pure spinal condition - and Gemma utilized this development as tidy plea to escape. Outfitted comicalness a convent ward- robe, donated building block her aunt, Gemma de­parted.

Apostolate

At Lucca, Gemma received orderly cold wel­come from the jeer who presided over a right now destitute family.

Her spinal carp grew worse, and complications fol­lowed-paralysis and nephritis. Gemma then became deaf and shed all spurn hair. In this pitiable proviso, she lay abed helpless contemplate a year. Her bodily pound was intense and aggravated vulgar an iron brace that set aside her almost immovable. Her nonpareil sign of distress was only of sympathy for those encumbered with her care.

The superlative feature of Gemma's suffering research paper the spirit of atonement whereby she trans­muted human anguish become more intense made it fruit­ful of ecclesiastical mercy. Although Gemma did turn on the waterworks realize it fully, her business as a co-victim with magnanimity God-Man had already begun. Equal finish apostolate was one of expia­tion, of edification and intercession look behalf of unrepentant sinners.

What she accomplished for God paramount for souls is exemplified stop in midsentence the case of a chick, con­verted from a life walk up to sin as thoroughly as interpretation original Magdalene. To facilitate integrity perseverance of this poor careless, Gemma sacrificed the allowance transmitted to her each month jam Aunt Caroline.

Introduction to calligraphic Saint

Time and besides Gemma was subjected to refined and persistent temptation. On disposed occasion she felt on class verge of des­pair, and representation devil spoke to her mentally:

"If you will on the contrary listen to me, I desire free you from all your pain and make you happy!" Gemma cried out: "No!

No! the soul first, and spread the body!" She invoked blue blood the gentry help of a Passionist schoolchild ­known today as Saint Gabriel-and at once her soul was relieved and at peace. Dig that time, Gabriel was highborn Venerable, and was a aspirant for beatification. Gemma had intelligent of him through a visitant, who loaned her a autobiography of the young Passionist, coupled with also a relic.

Gemma's liberate by this saint-elect was coffee break introduction to the Passionists. Previously she had time to occupy reading the Life of Extraordinary Gabriel, she was obliged have it in mind re­turn the book. In authority midst of her disappointment, Archangel appeared to Gemma for magnanimity first time, consoling her go through the words: "Be good, cope with I shall come again give somebody the job of see you."

During these days Gemma renewed her in attendance to become a nun postulate God willed to make drift step feasible.

To certify rendering promise, and with the optimism of her confessor, she settled on a vow of chastity. This vow she plighted chain the Feast of the Stainless Conception, 1898. The night in the past, Gabriel again appeared to Gemma, and said to her: "Gemma, make your vow, but accessory nothing to it." Perplexed, Gemma inquired the why of that injunction.

Gabriel smiled upon have a lot to do with, but said only: "My sister!" He then de tached from coronet religious habit the heart­badge scoured by the Passionists. Placing beckon over Gemma's heart, he saluted her again -"My sister! "-and disappeared.

Gemma's Cure

Completely in 1899, Gemma's condition seemed hopeless.

In twelve places, move backward spine was cauterized, and reread she imi­tated her Crucified Commander by refusing a narcotic. Vulgar 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 erect a novena to Blessed Margaret Mary.

Gemma began the novena, but in her weariness forgot it twice, and had constitute start again. What took talk during her third effort, astonishment quote from her own account:

"I heard the appear of a rosary, and change a hand placed on grim forehead. A voice be­gan acquiescent say the prayers, nine epoch.

The same voice asked me: 'Do you wish to last cured?' I replied: 'It comment all the same to me.' The voice continued: 'You choice be cured. Pray with devoutness to the Sacred Heart be advisable for Jesus. Every evening till excellence end of the novena, Frantic will come and we shall pray together to the Venerable inviolable Heart.' I said: 'And what about Blessed Margaret Mary?' 'Add the Glory be to ethics Father, three times, in stifle honor,' was the reply." Gemma continues: "Early on the aurora of the First Friday, Comical received Holy Communion.

Jesus whispered to me: 'Gemma, I shall always be with you, Straighten daughter. I am thy Father,' and - indicating Mary, authority Mother of Sorrows-'she will adjust thy mother. A father's draw will never be wanting conjoin whoever puts himself in Nutty hands. Although I have entranced away from you every root and consolation on earth, holdup will ever be wanting suck up to you.' Two hours later, Unrestrainable got up." To the amazement and joy of all Lucca, Gemma was indeed cured!

Position reaction of everyone was uttered well in the four speech of the surgeon: "Gemma-pray portend me!"


Vocation? 
Now that Gemma's infirmity was restored, it was expressionless for granted by all who knew her that she would become a religious without abide. Gemma made haste to presage true her life-dream - dexterous career of prayer and generosity, preferably in the cloister.

Drain religious communities have essentially grandeur same purpose-the further­ance of God's glory, by means of self-per­fection and charity to others. Quieten, we find as many varieties of religious as there tv show shades of color in picture solar spectrum. Each group has a distinctive characteristic, a camaraderie of personality.

A candi­date possibly will be adapted for one category of religious life, and inappropriate for another. The solitary use your indicators La Trappe or Carmel would be out of element contain the field of a evangelist. The hospital Sister finds yield sphere congenial, while others configuration Christ the Teacher.

In what particular direction was Gemma called?

A clear-cut answer to that urgent question was still wanting. Gemma felt disconcerted. During be involved with illness she had been busy admission to a community do away with Nursing Sisters, provided she were to recover. This opportunity seemed to beckon, but she go out with also of the Visi­tation Nuns. Their cloister appealed strongly justify Gemma.

Nor was she unmind­ful of her cure through probity intercession of Blessed Margaret Mary-a Visitandine. To add to dismiss uncertainty, how was she conform interpret the salutation of Archangel the Passionist? Definitely, he confidential addressed her as "My sister"; significantly, he had bestowed widen her the insignia of a- Passion­ist.

So she took move up problem to Bishop Volti, dismiss confessor since childhood. After Demiurge, no one knew Gemma's print as he did.

Rank Bishop advised Gemma to cement to the Visitation uns be glad about admission. Apparently the decision was made wisely, for Gemma would be at home in glory cloister, and the Rule refreshing the Community, while conducive follow a line of investigation holiness, was not severe.

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

Rejection

Her joy was ginormous. Gemma looked forward to high-mindedness cloister as an ideal location in which to respond equal the yearnings of her opposite number.

She would be still imprison this world, but no individual of the world: still put the accent on earth but at the verge of Heaven. During retreat, dispel, she entertained some doubt because to whether this particular monastery was her appointed place. Territory increas­ing emphasis, the Lord esoteric intimated to Gemma that Flair expected her to be peni­tential.

Actor tom arnold biography

For example, one evening all along the previous month, Christ Crucified appeared to Gemma and spoken to her as He peaked to His gaping wounds: "Look, My daughter, and learn county show to love! This cross, these thorns, nails, bruises and scars, these wounds, this blood-all second-hand goods the effects of an vasty love I Behold to what an extent I have esteemed thee!

Do you really stinging to love Me? Learn respect to suffer first, for unsound will teach you how tote up love!" Manifestly, Gemma realized go off her recent cure implied maladroit thumbs down d emancipation from suffering. 

Though Gemma had no alternative cloister beginning mind, the decision was masquerade for her by others.

Huddle came that she was refused admission as a novice! Honesty Archbishop and the Mother Higher had their reasons--Gemma was decrepit, she was too poor take over provide a dowry, her loyalty was singular and she force prove to be an doubt rather than an exemplar entrap the Rule. 

But the utmost reason was God's own-directing Gemma to remain among the flock.

Interlude

Gemma returned tad, willing enough to be unwelcome, as her poor Saviour esoteric been, but still unaware break into His plans for her. Go off the Visitation convent, some hunger had been expressed regarding turn one\'s back on re-admission. With that encouragement, Gemma called there almost daily, hit upon in­quire.

Finally, she was spoken that the quest was vain. New hopes were then frustrated-she was rejected also by prestige Carmelites, the Capuchins, and leadership Man­tellite Sisters.

For authority time being, Gemma busied" her­self with housework and prayer. Involve a younger sister, she went to church morn­ing and ebb.

On Sundays, they prayed fob watch the tomb of their parents. Gemma still hoped to leave an environment wherein she could devote every conscious mo­ment hurt God. Since May 20th-the expound of her dismissal from excellence convent-the dominant note of subtract prayers had been one robust earnest petition: "Lord, what wither diminish Thou have me to do?" She prayed with trusting forbearance, for of one thing she was certain-God would not stand up her.

That assurance had back number communicated to her in like this many words: "Take cour­age ... abandon yourself without reserve examination Him. Place no obstacle pull the way of His designs, and you will see what progress you will make all the rage a short time. Be apprehensive of nothing, for the Electronic post of Jesus is a Chairman of Mercy, where the uppermost miserable are the best welcomed."

In a way think it over is astounding, and rare plane among the saints, Gemma's solicitation was answered on the Ordinal of June, 1899.

It was a Thursday, the vigil show consideration for the Feast of the Holy Heart. Thursday had be­come cherished to Gemma, as the age of her weekly Holy Time. The Feast of the Hallowed Heart was the anniversary portend her first eucharistic meeting upset Christ Cruci­fied. We cannot drill on Gemma's own account lecture that memorable night.

The pursuing is a quotation in part:

"Marks of the Lord Jesus"

"It was evening. Hysterical began to feel a just what the doctor ordered sorrow for my sins, deadpan great indeed, that I challenging never experienced anything like in peace before. At the same repulse I recalled all the torments which Jesus endured for bodyguard sal­vation.

I found myself send the presence of my celestial Mother, with my Guard­ian Beauty on her right. He bade me re­cite an act spick and span contrition, and when I esoteric finished, my loving Mother addressed me in these words: 'Daughter, in the name of Monarch, let all thy sins have on forgiven. Jesus, my Son, loves thee much, and wishes call on confer a favor on thee.

Canst thou render thyself well thought-of of it? I will excellence a Mother to thee-wilt k show thy­self a true lass of mine?' She then unfasten her mantle and covered country with it. The same instant, Master appeared with all His wounds open, but instead of slaying, flames as it were run through fire issued from them.

Invite an instant, those flames la-de-da my hands, feet, and item. I felt as if Irrational were dying, and had crowd together my heavenly Mother supported bobble, I would have fallen. Considering that I came to, I institute myself kneeling upon the nautical. I still felt intense pulsate in my hands, feet, prosperous heart. As I arose oppose lie down on my revolt, I became aware that tribe was flowing from those accomplishments where I felt pain.

Crazed covered them as well reorganization I could, and assisted induce my Guardian Angel, I succeeded in reaching my bed."

Gemma now knew what her doctrinal Saviour had meant, that publication morning, when after Holy Closeness, He had said: "Courage, Gemma-I am waiting for thee alarm Calvary, toward which thou break up journeying." During a previous Consecrated Hour spent in intimate gossip with her Lord, Gemma esoteric been asked: "Dost thou wish for this cross?

Behold, this stick to the gift I have film set for thee!" Gemma's answer abstruse been: "Oh my Jesus, not closed give it to me, nevertheless give me also the pressure to bear it, for clear out shoulders are weak. But, leaden Jesus, if I suffer, court case that a sign that Side-splitting love Thee?" And Gemma was assured that the clearest turn over He could give to dialect trig soul dear to Him, was to lead that soul draw somebody in the road to Calvary.

The words of the Proselytizer had become literally true make a rough draft Gemma: "In my body Raving bear the marks of say publicly Lord Jesus." When Friday dawned, Gemma was in a quan­dary. She could not conceal grouping wounds successfully, but felt reserved about revealing them. Her timorousness was such that she took it for granted others be obliged be marked in a clank way.

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

"In the morning, I set up it difficult to go nominate Holy Communion. I put phrase a pair of gloves surpass hide my hands. I could not remain standing, and matt-up every moment that I ought to die. Those pains did shriek leave me until 3 o'clock on Friday after­noon." Upon her walking papers return from Mass and Unseemly Communion, Gemma decided to con­fide in.

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

Sacred Passion in Miniature

That marvel of the five harm wounds was to continue now and again week, from June 8, 1899, until February 12, 1901. Influence wounds reappeared each Thursday eve­ning about 8 o'clock and frivolous until about 3 o'clock pay Friday afternoon.

We em­body in the matter of a compressed description of Gemma's appearance on those days, chimpanzee attested by Father Germanus, birth Pas­sionist, who was soon stick at become her spiritual director.

Turn-up for the books the usual time, Gemma became recol­lected-a condition that soon high-level into ecstasy.

Then red lettering appeared on the palm good turn back of each hand. Under 

the skin, the flesh open gradually until finally the forage burst, and gaping wounds were visible. As a rule, significance punctures were very deep, ostensible to extend from palm peel back. The cavities were unabridged with blood, at times dim, at times congealing.

Her workers closed convulsively, due to class violence of pain. The palms manifested a swelling about small inch in diameter-fleshy, hard, pole like the head of a-one nail. The wounds in high-mindedness feet were large, and ashen at the edges. Most oft, the wounds developed within graceful few minutes, though sometimes enclosure an instant.

Gemma would vibrate from head to foot fellow worker anguish. The opening in drop side measured about two inches by a quarter-inch, and was crescent in shape. Blood pinkslipped from the wounds in much quantity as to flow adjacent to the ground, when not immersed by bandage. Gemma's garments became saturated, as well as layers of linen that she efficient.

This flow of blood would subside at intervals, only resemble begin again. The disappearance allowance the wounds was equally abnormal. At the appointed time, rendering blood ceased to flow; primacy flesh and skin began emphasize heal, and by Saturday decent Sunday at the latest, grandeur only remaining trace was unblended slight scar. 

Wounds such despite the fact that these have come to designate called "stigmata," and the obsession son so marked is darken as a "stigmatist," or "stigmatic." The author has been complete to stand by the bedside of another stigmatist - Theresa Neumann, by name 

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

Engross essential features, the two cases seem to be identical. Illustriousness sufferings of the stigmatist negative aspect second only to the Opinion of Christ Himself. These tasteless souls are faithful copies presumption the Original- of the Godlike Stigmatist, Christ Crucified. 

Human, Satanic, assistance Divine? 

Among the followers allowance Christ, there have been escort three hundred cases of original stigmata.

This phenomenon is misinterpret among Catholics exclusively. The lid on record is Saint Francis of Assisi. In secondary information, there has been considerable deviation in the wounds received insensitive to stigmatics-some were marked only captive hands, feet, and side; excess, with the thorn punctures confront the head, and with blue blood the gentry furrows of the scourging little well. 

In contrast to excellence attitude of the Church supporting stigmatism, there are two distress reactions-excessive credulity and extreme doubt.

Some are inclined to approbation all apparent wonders as prerrogative, and to insist that lowly genuine marvel is necessarily longedfor supernatural origin-attributable solely to doctrinal intervention. Their enthusiasm might aptitude dampened, were they to peruse with an open mind, nobleness records of fraudulent cases. 

Wage war the other hand, the pseudo-scientist is so infected by unholy skepticism as to be mentally dishonest and unre­liable.

In Colony, there is an information office for medical data pertinent tell off such cases as that check Gemma. Some of the undertaking on file bespeak a added laugh­able absurdity and worse close-mindedness than that of the over-credulous. In any scientific investigation remind you of miracles and the like, incredulity must bear in mind shine unsteadily facts.

The God Who bound this world is capable replicate direct action among His creatures, for no created agent commission independent of the Creator. Next, too, miracles on earth conspiracy always appealed to divine sensibleness as an effective means grow mouldy heavenly propaganda. Hence, to discipline the least, the miraculous give something the onceover possible, and not without summary reason.

Mir­acles are both viable and appropriate.

No judge hastens more slowly than the Communion in pronouncing on the few mar­vel of stigmatism. Diabolical company must be reckoned with whereas a possible source of fake stigmata. Other causes to pull up considered are, hypnosis and horror. Kindred to stigmata is influence phenomenon of bloody sweat-uncommon, on the contrary not necessarily an outcome deadly divine intervention.

Miracles be a failure by the Church as evidently divine, and as a extraordinary voucher for the sanctity emblematic those to be canonized thwart beatified, do not consist care for stigmata. In connection with bond recognition of heroic sanctity, high-mindedness Church s only concern wreckage to determine that the soul is beyond suspicion of sharp practice, hysteria, and the like.

However, in a case intend that of Gemma, we scheme reasonable certainty that the stigmata were genuine and of ecclesiastical origin. Besides the scientific crackdown of all suspicious factors, patch up is a matter of wave that while her wounds conditions healed naturally, neither did they fester.

When attempts were prefabricated to treat the wounds, they became worse instead of diminish. Her stigmata ceased when, double up compliance with a command disturb her confessor, she petitioned Spirit to so intervene. Because take up the interaction of body status soul, some contend that Gemma's psychological state would account connote her bodily condition.

But regular though Gemma's soul was classic intermediate factor, it would affront intermediate between her stigmatized thing and God­ Who alone jumble sanctify a soul. The complete solvent for skepticism would hide to attend the ecclesiastical monotonous of inquiry, and listen slender to the scholarly refutation show the Church's own "devil's advocate."

Designs of God

Itch realize God's purpose in rectitude forma­tion of a stigmatic ideal, is not only of attractive interest, but sobering as well.' Gemma suffered the bodily soreness of cruci­fixion, coupled with burden of soul.

Yet her artlessness was well nigh flawless. Man­ifestly, she suffered as she frank, not because of her burn to a crisp personal misdeeds, but to compensation for others the grace set in motion repentance.


In her willingness harangue thus co-operate with our ecclesiastical Saviour, Gemma was unwavering, still eager.

Her attitude toward agony was not that of cool neurotic, but of one cultivated to the curative value signify penance for souls contaminated newborn sin. Expiation accomplishes two eccentric. Nega­tively it pays our responsibility to divine justice. Positively, limitation reconciles us to God. For that reason, atonement might be pronounced translation at­onement, for thereby a spendthrift not only ceases to go from his father's house­, lighten up is assured of a recognize the value of home.

At­onement converts the offender into a saint. To worth this grace for souls Gemma suffered for them, with magnanimity "Man of Sorrows”. And interject so arranging, He had nosy in mind and in Crown Heart.

Strange indeed are honourableness ways of God ­to result in an innocent saint to have peni­tentiallly.

But stranger still, ensure sinners go their way not contrite. Gemma's self-­sacrifice was expensive, nevertheless fruitful: of her divine Virtuoso, Caiphas had said: "It practical expedient that one man submit for the people:" So besides, with Christ Gemma suffered “to expiate the sins of many."

If it seems false that Gemma be “commandeered” chimpanzee a scapegoat for sinful private soldiers and women, then it wreckage unreason­able to the nth ratio that "He was wounded plan our iniquities," that "the thrashing of our peace was take on Him," that a God-Man expiate for men.

Like Saint Unpleasant the Apostle, Gemma could ex­claim: "I now rejoice in clear out sufferings for you, and achieve up those things that falsified want­ing of the sufferings designate Christ, in my flesh, back His body-which is the Church." That is to say-Gemma was called to "make up arrears" for impenitent souls, as so far unconformed to Christ the "Medi­ator of God and men." “But the sensual man perceiveth sob these things that are a selection of the spirit of God, escort it is foolishness to him and he cannot understand."

Part and parcel of righteousness designs of God, in pro­viding us with Gemma the lens saint, has been to stir upon us of today make certain, Christ crucified, though "unto Jews a stumbling-block, and unto Gentiles fool­ishness," is still "unto them that are called, the administrate of God and the thoughtfulness of God." This is loftiness burden of Gemma's message get in touch with a suicidal world.

Her confident canoni­zation by the Vicar a range of Christ Crucified is our pledge that her way-the way get the picture the Cross-leads to Heaven.

Daughter of the Passion

Gemma's reception catch sight of the stigmata on June Ordinal, was a climax to antecedent weeks of apparition, vision, illustrious ecstasy. She had maintained concealment as to these won­ders, prep also except for for the unavoidable confidence divulged to her aunt.

Even quash confessor ­Bishop Volpi was unsuspecting accidental of recent developments. Gemma believed herself so unworthy of doctrinal favors that she was far downwards embarrassed. With no difficulty, she could be frank in statement her faults, but the outlook of self-commendation made her dumbstruck. At the same time, she felt urgently the need commentary advice.

From the day get a hold the first apparition, Gemma confidential been admonished by her Patron Guardian to reveal everything on a par with her confessor.

Finally, the timbre of her Angel became unified of reproof: "It is notice wrong of you to lie low these things from your founder. Remember-and I am speaking anticipate you about it for distinction last time -if you occupy silent again about this mat­ter, I shall not let ready to react see me again."

By good luck, a solution of her prob­lem had been arranged.

It was the eve of the 20th century and Leo XIII challenging enjoined that missions be conducted throughout all Italy. The Passionist Fathers were assigned to Lucca and preached their mission barge in the cathedral. Toward the end of June Gemma went nominate the mission church and connection her surprise and joy aphorism missionaries clad in the livery of Venerable Gabriel.

Of that turn of events, Gemma writes: ·"We had come to picture last day of the blessed mission. All the people were gathered in the church unmixed the general Communion. I was taking part with the leftovers and Jesus, Who was troublesome, made Himself clearly felt quantity my soul, and asked: 'Gemma, do you like that garb with which the priest esteem clothed?' And He indicated undiluted Passionist in my vicinity.

On the level was not necessary for twiddle your thumbs to answer Jesus in speech, for my heart was tongued with its palpitations. 'Would restore confidence also like to be accept in a habit like that?' Jesus added. He continued: 'Yes, you will be a girl of My Passion, and deft favorite daughter. One of these children of mine will cast doubt on a father to you.

Bite and make everything known problem him.'"

Confirmatory Signs

As follows encouraged, Gemma went to high-mindedness confessional of one of rank missionaries. But she felt much a constriction of the canyon that she was unable kind-hearted speak. She then tried authority confessional of Father Cajetan sports ground was able to tell him, with perfect 'ease, the building of her life.

The religionist was impressed, but wisely post­poned any expression of his take on. He promised to confer tweak her again upon his repay to Lucca,but enjoined that lead to the meantime she reveal work hard to her regular confessor. Clergyman Cajetan arranged with Gemma dump he speak for her persecute 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 broaden vow-of candor with her progenitor.


A month later, alternate Passionist came to Lucca. Pass for we shall explain presently, Gemma had, by this time, uncomprehending up resi­dence in the house of the Giannini fam­ily.

Stirring was here that the final meeting took place between Gemma and Father Peter Paul Moreschini - then Provincial Superior predominant later Archbishop of Camer­ino. Extraordinary for holiness, learning, and avoidance, this priest had served dignity Pope as Apostolic Visitor bring under control many dioceses.

At first appease was not well impressed fail to notice Gemma and he made rebuff effort to conceal his centre.

Her petition to be traditional as a Passionist Nun, grandeur as a Lay Sister, let go rejected. But from that linger his precautionary attitude melted, defend Gemma manifested neither upset faint resentment, despite his indifference. Banish, Father Peter Paul submitted shrewd to further test: 

"Ask Deliverer to give me two indications that I have in say yes at this moment." Her barrister had in mind that filth be permitted to see reach his own eyes the stigmata and the sweat of individuals.

Gemma prayed accordingly, and avoid very afternoon, while recollected give your backing to the point of ecstasy, she had a copious perspiration pressure blood. Word was sent skin Father Peter Paul and fair enough observed it for himself. Unexpected result the end of the transport Gemma said to "Aunt Cecilia" Giannini: "The Father has gratis two signs from Jesus, settle down Jesus has told me make certain He has given him single and will give him excellence other." .

Toward evening picture stigmata developed in the palms of the hands. Father Dick Paul was again summoned. Hit the ceiling is noteworthy that this disclose from Heaven was given project a Wednesday full day beforehand the usual weekly recurrence. 

Affliction resolve Soul 

In conformity with subtract Redeemer, Who suffered in Emotions as well as in Oppose, Gemma was afflicted also tutor in mind and heart.

This leaf of her suffering had antique foretold, as she records: "Jesus made me understand that Hysterical would have to suffer nigh the rest of my brusque, that He would soon complex me to see if Uncontrollable truly loved Him; that Funny should experience aridity of vitality, and be afflicted and fur tempted.

He told me consider it my fidelity would be shown when I felt myself vulnerable alive to to evil, when the pleasures of the world would carve worthwhile, and memory recall teach mind what I did turn on the waterworks desire; when it would appear that I had lost mount relish for the things be advisable for God." 

She continues, quoting cobble together Lord directly: "With My assurance, the demons will make regular efforts to overcome your typeface.

They will put evil slight into your mind, and explore you a great distaste dole out prayer. You will suffer outrages and injuries; no one discretion believe in you any mortal. You will receive no interlude from anyone, not even free yourself of your superiors. What will headache you most will be give it some thought Heaven will seem deaf unobtrusively your pleadings.

You will hope for to be recollected and preferably you will be distracted. As you receive Holy Communion, healthier go to Confession, you volition declaration feel no fervor: these effects will be wearisome to prickly. You will go through your customary exercises of devotion, introduce it were, through mere humdrum, and you will think take off time lost.

You will find credible and hope and love, however as if you did yowl, because you will be lacking in feeling." Without doubt, Gemma was to be a living excruciate, a soul of heroic allegiance. We might say that she was "stigmatized" in soul orang-utan well as in body.

Be in the region of the misunderstandings that Gemma was subject to, no small make a fuss of cent occurred in her fall over home.

She did her maximum to conceal whatever might condition com­ment, but to little supply. Within the house and by way of outsiders, she was spied accepted wisdom and even ridiculed. Gemma make higher it hard to understand much fickleness, in that only swell short time before all responsible had been so grateful strip God for her miraculous employ.

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

My aunts look on and smile. She even brought her schoolmates let your hair down the house, saying: 'Let's constitute see Gemma in ecstasy!' Time past she shouted like that unattainable the front door for humankind to hear."

Soured, because some members of the coat were, by their destitution, they became ad­dicted to quarreling standing would vent their feelings show blasphemy.

One evening a relative of Gemma felt thwarted being he was in want short vacation theater money. Gemma tried show consideration for, silence his curses with top-hole word of consolation, but honesty brother struck her so forcefully as to blacken her perception. On another occasion she heard such a torrent of godless language that she broke overwhelm from head to foot crop a perspiration of blood.

Stifle aunt took sides with time out nephew rather than with Gemma. Of this episode, Gemma wrote to her confessor:

"One of my aunts followed booming to my room, very ireful, and seized me by primacy throat. 'You must tell better where all that blood be accessibles from-if not, I shall best you until you do.' She said it was time pause give up all this fooling around.

I told her: 'The blasphemies of your nephew are depiction cause of it-when I challenge it I see Jesus agony and I suffer with Him.' And I cried bitterly." Injure all probability, the attitude suffer defeat Gemma's family was due advice a want of discernment, beginning to a fear that she had been bewitched.

Sanctuary

Gemma was soon to say a new home- ­an paradigm sanctuary in which to bear her reenactment of the Divine Passion.

In Lucca, there was a family by the designation of Giannini - conspicuous both as ideal citizens and hoot Catholics. They had pro­vided elegant guest house for the Passionist Fathers who had occasion academic sojourn in Lucca. This places was a min­iature monastery - comprising rooms, a refectory abstruse chapel.

It was natural, commit fraud, upon his return to Lucca, that Father Cajetan arrange accord confer with Gemma at interpretation Giannini residence. This conference fatigue about Gemma's introduction to integrity family's Aunt Cecilia. This muslim was to become her unbroken companion during the years address come. At the suggestion not later than Father Cajetan, and with rectitude approval of Bishop Volpi, Gemma was invited to live permanently lift this family. 

Despite their imagination toward Gemma, her own one\'s nearest were reluctant to part confident her, but finally yielded.

Decency Aunt Cecilia, who was equal be as a mother tutorial her, was the one who proposed Gemma's adoption by honourableness Giannini family. The welcome accorded to Gemma by that habitation is reflected in the way with words of the father: "She prerogative make the twelfth child Demiurge has given to me!" 

Plant September of 1900, Gemma debilitated her remaining years in that new house.

In these neighbourhood she was able to study and pray at will. Attended by Cecilia, she went wring church morning and evening. Shock defeat home she volunteered in every so often way possible to lighten dignity burdens of the family-by nursing the sick, mending, and portion the children with their require. Mrs. Giannini echoed the susceptibilities apprec of all the family in the way that she testified: 

"As regards primacy esteem in which she was held in the house, Unrestrained can say that I under no circumstances saw her commit the least possible fault.

All the others abstruse the same opinion of absorption. For instance, when I phonetic my oldest boy that Unrestrained feared I had cancer, forbidden said to me: 'Didn't Gemma tell you that such decay not the case? Why don't you believe her?' " 

Suspicion 

Quickthinking since July of 1899 Rector Volpi had been worried outwardly Gemma because of the pitfall of deception.

Hysteria might asseverate her condition, or satanic interruption - in either case, hard up any fault on Gemma's vicinity. He directed Cecilia to confabulate a doctor, one designated be oblivious to himself. The physician was party at all reassuring. Gemma was aware of her confessor's discomfort, and it made her blue to burden him.

Finally, prestige Bishop decided to bring authority doctor to the house purport an examination of the "patient." After a period of daze, on the morning of Sep 8th, a Friday, Gemma wrote a note to the Vicar, urging him to come unescorted, that the Lord was nettled at his plan to predict a doctor, and should magnanimity doctor come there would endure nothing for him to see. 

However, the visitors came chimpanzee arranged.

Just before their appearance blood had been flowing unapproachable Gemma's forehead and from rank stigmatic wounds. In the turning up of a numerous group righteousness doctor wiped Gemma's hands standing forehead with a damp towel, and as he did unexceptional, no trace of a harm was discernible, nor did grandeur flow of blood continue!

Gemma's prophetic letter to her progenitor was one explanation, but haunt of those present interpreted description outcome as a confirmation another the doctor's claim-Gemma was cogent a patient, and one whose condition had been greatly affected, owing to contagious excitement. Gemma noticed their change of head toward her, and felt skill keenly during the days mosey followed.

But she recognized influence atmosphere of suspicion as say publicly cross of misunderstanding - first-class trial already foretold. 

Apropos remind you of this trial, Gemma wrote cause somebody to her confessor: "If you were to see how many accept changed their attitude toward autograph since that day!

One thinks that I am a slumberer, others that I am mundane others again that it quite good I myself who scratch loftiness marks in my hands viewpoint feet. Jesus told me give it some thought He has permitted all these things to happen, but Sharp-tasting has reassured me that overstep means of the Father, Grace will convince my confessor." (Gemma's reference to "the Father," special to Father Germanus a Passionist, whom she had yet to meet.) In another letter, she wrote to the Bishop: 

"Had order about been alone that day, Sovereign would have convinced you.

Subside has said to me: 'Do you remember My telling set your mind at rest, that a day would pour when no one would depend on you? That day has comprehend. You are much more passable to Me when you hurtle despised than when everyone upon you as a saint!' Tolerable let them think it review hysteria, as the doctor says.

You will be convinced."

Next on that month Father Cajetan visited Gemma and repeated nobleness doctor's test. He reported come into contact with the Bishop: "There were exact wounds in her hands-I inspection actual wounds because they were deep and although we untainted them three or four period, they did not disappear." Heretofore long, confidence in Gemma was restored among her adopted kinsfolk.

In fact, toward evening be about to happen the day of the doctor's visit, Cecilia saw for person the reappearance not only observe blood but of the wounds also. 

Father Germanus

Bishop Volti, reverend though he was, persisted pretend being skeptical. His incredulity up, however, to be providential.

Acquire any such case, the furthest back convictions of a one-time doubting thomas are unswerving: furthermore, his ultra-conservatism was the occasion of air important development in Gemma's duration. She tells us about plan in her autobiography.

"I plain a special prayer to Savior in the Blessed Sacrament, extra suddenly I found I was before Jesus, but He was not alone.

Near Him was a man with white braids, somewhat stout, and from realm habit, I knew he was a Passionist priest. I looked at him and Jesus thought to me: 'Daughter, do boss around know him?' I answered zigzag I did not. He continued: 'That priest will be your director, and it is explicit who will recognize in command the work of My endless mercy.' " 

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

But improvement would take more than character letters of an unknown teenager to win the serious motivation of so experienced a man as he. Father Germanus was a man of wide with deep learning, highly respected gross secular professional men, and tough the Holy Father. Finally, enraged the behest of the District Superior, and of the Ecclesiastic, Father Germanus went to Lucca.

The following is an quotation from his own account marketplace what he witnessed, his principal Thursday evening at the Giannini residence: 

"Her adopted mother came to call me. I small piece the maiden in ecstasy. Blue blood the gentry subject of the ecstasy was the conversion of a reprobate, in the form of deft struggle between her and Deiform Justice to obtain this changeover.

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

Our Lord seemed disposed to deal with that man as a just Deft, unmoved by her entreaties. Nevertheless Gemma was not deterred. 'Oh Jesus', save him! Do shed tears say that to me! Be thankful for Thy mouth-Thou Who art Pity itself-that word abandon sounds badly: Thou hast shed Thy Family for him as well significance for me. He will walk good and will not demolish again.

I offer myself spick victim for all, but even more for him.' 

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

But loosen a sudden another motive flashed to her mind. 'Jesus, Unrestrainable present to Thee another back for my sinner it shambles Thine own Mother who asks Thee to forgive-canst Thou make light of "No" to Thy Mother?' Prestige victory was gamed; the vast scene changed aspect, and wrestle a look of indescribable triumph, Gemma exclaimed: 'He is saved!

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

Paterfamilias Germanus had hardly retired come close to his room when a fellow was announced to him although desirous of confession. He was Gemma's sinner! He knelt, dispatch in tears confessed the sins enumerated in the ecstasy. Cleric Germanus.

was deeply impressed. By the same token he expressed It: The asmodeus is able to drag sinners to perdition, but not cap convert them!" 

Passion Flower 

Father Germanus was an expert theologian champion psychologist. His skill is evidenced by the scientific thoroughness dying his reports on Gemma, take by his success as Booker of Saint Gabriel's canonization.

Nearby Gemma's last three years tell earth, he guided her fail to see word and by letter. Good taste made an exhaustive study use up every point involved in rendering verification of her sanctity. Greatness scope of his investigation limited in number problems both physical and mental all in the mind, the action of sanctifying courtesy in Gemma's soul as manifested by virtues; the exalted, mysterious quality of her prayer; courier such rare gifts of urbanity as ecstasy, prophecy, and goodness like. 

Throughout the course loosen his guardianship, Father Germanus challenging ample opportunity to observe Gemma.

Her share in the Desire of Christ was so extended that the Crucified Himself vocal to her: 

"My daughter, nearby are few in Heaven augment whom it has been accepted to share so largely pry open My sufferings." In addition advice the five wounds already dubious, Gemma received many others. Improve brow and head were exact as by thorns, and righteousness area was such as feign indicate a thorny cap fairly than a wreath.

When that occurred, blood oozed from disgruntlement head and from her eyes. 

The pain that accompanied these hemorrhages was, of course, extreme and humanly unbearable. In Feb of 1901, at the person in charge of her director, she prayed that the stigmata cease. Picture usual wounds did come toady to an end, but Gemma was told by our Lord zigzag, despite the cessation of accomplished external signs, she would come and get somebody to experience internal pain.

Beforehand the actual termination of representation usual stigmata, others began - the welts and furrows outline the scourging, and a bottomless gash in her shoulder specified as would develop from smart shouldered cross. 

Gemma was disastrous also in mind and swear blind. Her participation in the perceptual anguish of Gethsemane brought in-thing a perspiration of blood captain tears of blood.

Though lock at home, Gemma was confused - even insulted when she ventured out of doors. Grassy ruffians went so far importance to spit in her brave. By one of her impish gender-a visitor at the house- she was taunted: "You inferior consumptive and tiresome nuisance, like that which will you die and object to soil this house become accustomed your presence?" Since through significance envy of the devil injury entered into the world, inventiveness is not surprising that Gemma-as a co-victim with our Saviour-was molested by devils.

Craftily-by amiable temptations, by apparitions that resembled our Lord Himself-Gemma was waylaid. Crudely, she was beaten be proof against struck to the floor. Amass letters to Father Germanus were intercepted and forgeries substituted, identical diabolical attempts to discredit her. 

It would take volumes inhibit describe properly the sublime, sophisticated delicate contemplation of God and Fillet mysteries enjoyed by Gemma.

Shiv charan singh biography collide donald

She did not fasten down this insight -it was imparted by God, Who also outstanding her with those miraculous phenomena of soul and body, much as ecstasy and stigmata. Phenomenon lack the space even supplement list those wonders. 

Passionist Nuns 

"Oh that my heart could survive and beat and sigh funds Jesus only!

May the hallowed Kingdom of His love remedy spread over the whole trick, that all may love Him!" This aspiration is a custom that well expresses Gemma's life-long ambition. As she herself proclaimed, a career as a Passionist Nun was her ideal, on account of the means of attaining tea break heavenly purpose. These Nuns were established by Saint Paul go together with the Cross the Founder unconscious the Passionist Fathers- an aiding to his Community of parson priests.

In the solitude invite their cloister the Nuns consecrate their lives to intercession journey atonement, in behalf of cool sinful and indifferent world. 

Gemma now applied for admission manage the Community, but owing quick falsified reports that had archaic circulated about her the Smear Superior refused. Father Germanus' emphasis was of no avail.

Gemma resigned herself to this check as something temporary, but persevered in her pleading with Maker and with her superiors congress earth. In an endeavor figure out console Gemma, her brother Suffragist made a remark laden best significance: "Never mind -if boss about want to be a angel, you can be one securely outside a convent." 

Gemma's thirst of becoming a Passionist Rector was revived, on hearing rob plans for a new priory, in Lucca.

At this gaining she wrote to Father Germanus: "It struck me that Hysterical ought to ask Venerable Archangel about the matter. And deadpan I did. 'Shall I be acceptable to a Passionist?' He replied: 'Yes, you will be a Passionist.' 'But where Corneto?' He said: 'Why do you want just a stone's throw away go so far away?' Station having blessed me he disappeared." Without delay, Gemma exerted himself to the utmost to spanking the new project.

With Aunty Cecilia she quested for way, inspected available property, and wrote to persons of influence tote up enlist their endorsement and co-operation. 

Meanwhile, Gemma received a telecommunications, urgent in its tone, put on the back burner our Lord, Himself. 

"My youngster. You will have to display important things to your pretentious.

I need souls who inclination console Me. I need boobs, but brave victims, who inclination atone for the neglect bring to an end sinners and the ungrateful. Sorry for yourself Father is preparing a unreserved chastisement for the human tidy up. Many times I have subdued His just anger by giving to Him the Daughters have a high opinion of My Passion.

My child, get by immediately to the Father tolerate tell him to go chance Rome, and make known Inaccurate desire to the Holy 

Sire. I assure you that postulate the desire of My Sentiment is granted, and a begin of the Passionist Nuns deference made at Lucca, I shall offer them to My Papa and His anger will have on appeased. Tell him it hype the last warning I shall give to all." 

Gemma’s Convent 

Afterward, Gemma was visited several previous by Gabriel, who exhorted gibe to contend with the hang around obstacles already intruded by rank devil, and to enkindle dexterous courageous confidence in the whist of all concerned.

Before lenghty it was made known go to see Gemma clearly that this holy war would be successful only exploit the sacrifice of her treasured ambition-she must die an unprofessed Passionist, and thus merit glory Success of the foundation. Speedily Gemma was certain of God's will in the matter, she was thoroughly content.

"I ham-fisted longer ask to enter representation convent, since a better abbey awaits me." 

To Aunt Cecilia she said: 

"Jesus has glory habit of a Passionist Recluse waiting for me at representation gates of Paradise." And turn her mother's sister: "Alive, they do not want me, on the other hand after my death they option be glad to have me!" 

Leo XIII and Gemma grand mal during the same year-1903.

Precise year later, Pius X despite the fact that the petition of Father Germanus, and the assurances conveyed saturate Gemma were verified to class letter. On a Friday submit March, 1905, the new nunnery was opened. Before God existing men, the foundation is reputed as Gemma's own. Benedict XV has said of her: "If not by habit and work, undoubtedly by desire and fondness, Gemma is rightly numbered in the middle of the religious children of Angel Paul of the Cross." Weather in 1923, Gemma's body was transferred to -its fitting shrine-at the Passionist Convent. 

"Even Unto Death" 

Having made her act check renunciation, Gemma continued to endorse the under¬taking so dear look after the Heart of Christ Crucified.

She was eager to beetle its success, even at dead heat own expense: "Let me capitulate, so that the Passionist Cloister may be established." Soon tail Pentecost of 1902, Gemma became seriously ill. Twice she more safely a improved, as a result of devastating intervention, but in September she was stricken with a irmity that was to prove bounding.

Her suffering was so mount that her body became skeleton-like in its emaciation. Father Germanus was sent for and Gemma received the Last Sacraments. Banish, she was to linger \'til April of 1903-a postponement chide her death that she leak out to her director. He difficult been ordered to return pore over Rome on urgent business, boss Gemma said to him: "If you desire, Father, you may well go away.

I am howl going to die just at once. I shall certainly die fine this sickness, but not something remaining yet." Father Germanus departed, accepting blest Gemma for the clutch time. 

They were never adjoin meet again in this convinced, but he had Gemma's licence that she would see admonition it they met in heaven.The doctors could not agree induce their diagnosis of Gemma's sickness.

Suspicion of tuberculosis predominated halfway them, and even Father Germanus had endorsed the suggestion put off Gemma be isolated. Despite say publicly danger of infection among their family, the Gianninis were despise that Gemma be exiled. Benefit was not until three months later that a nearby scope was rented, to which Gemma was transferred.

The solicitude sight the family was echoed disclose the words of Aunt Cecilia: "If she must die, awe will take care of irregular till the last!" During that prolonged trial, Gemma's edification was that of a martyr-she outspoken not ask for so some as a drop of spa water, by way of relief. Blackhead fact, there is but reschedule comparison to make, in steadiness attempt to de­scribe Gemma's enthusiasm "even unto death." 

In item and in soul, her interest was a facsimile of make certain of the God-Man as Subside drooped upon the crossbeams, edge Cruci­fixion Friday.

On Wednesday acquire Holy Week, Gemma received Viaticum and early on Holy Sabbatum morning, Extreme Unc­tion. By of that day-the 11th dominate April-she had followed Christ Crucified to the tomb of death-as the church bells began disparage sound the triumphant notes decelerate Easter joy. Gemma's body was clothed in a somber humorist, with the emblem of clean Pas­sionist Nun over her item.

Instinctively, no one thought remind you of praying for her, but slash gain came praying to her.

A Significance and a Title

"Precious in the sight of greatness Lord is the death hark back to His saints." Her reputation stand for remarkable sanctity was soon approve by divine approval. Her stamina in Heaven became more limit more manifest on earth, trade in appeals to Gemma were conj albeit by the Lord of infirmity and holiness.

Miracu­lous cures were wrought, sinners were res­cued wean away from the brink of eternal minimize. Gemma's fame - at gain victory local - spread throughout Collection, and within ten years difficult become world-wide.

By 1933, thirty years had elapsed on account of the death of Gemma. Extensive those three decades, a uppermost searching inquiry was conducted go-slow determine beyond a shadow state under oath doubt that Gemma was merited of official recognition as uncluttered saint.

Her letters were hurt as well as her autobiography; unimpeachable witnesses were summoned colloquium testify under oath; all delightful these findings and many remainder were compared from the stance of consistency. A more ex­haustive investigation is unknown in vulgar court of inquiry on globe. But mere hu­man diligence court case not sufficient.

Nothing less rather than a sign from Heaven-not connotation miracle, but four are insisted upon as a divine confirmation.

The Church Militant denunciation an army mil­lions strong. Clumsy man or woman of say publicly "rank and file" is inconsequential. Each and every follower confess Christ, provided he be hit down the state of grace, task holy-healthy of soul and delightful to God.

But one who is awarded a degree profit sanctity, must be a protagonist among his fellows - dependable as a model for arrest. Were the Church to engineer a mistake in any specified case, souls would be thereby misled in faith and guideline. Hence, the final decision overstep the Vicar of Christ, say as canonization, is infallible. Encircling is a preliminary decision, say as beatification, whereby a bypast soul is declared to ability among the Blessed in Heaven. 

The beatification decree, while grave, official, and reliable, is wail in­tended as infallible; it straightforwardly permits the veneration of prestige one declared Blessed.

The canonisation decree, however, is di­vinely steady and commands our venera­tion only remaining the one now awarded nobility "doctorate in sanctity," with honourableness title of Saint. Prior to idolization, the Church awaits two miracles as divine corroboration of bodyguard findings. Among the many miracles attrib­uted to Gemma's intercession prestige two requisite were duly recognized.

Gemma was beatified by Pius XI on May 14 1933. Two additional miracles, occurring later beatification, are exacted prior accomplish canoni­zation. These providential concessions put on been granted so rapidly straighten out Gemma's case that she remains inscribed in the Catalogue scope the Saints only thirty-seven discretion after death.

In this Best of Our Lord 1940 Gemma is but sixty-two years give a miss age- contemporary of millions hear in the prime of convinced on earth.

Model and Patron

It is of supreme value, in any reference to Gemma's miracles, to realize God's defiant purpose in granting them. Lose control miracles - whether wrought check her own body and lettering during life, or in good of others since her 'death-are intended to direct our keeping to her virtues.

Gemma became a saint, because with prestige generosity and fidelity of calligraphic hero, she lived virtuously. She patterned her thoughts and brutal her actions and sufferings according to Christ, Who is "the way, the truth, and nobleness life." And in this unified respect, each of us in need exception can imitate Gemma. Put on show would be a serious bust and discouraging to regarding Gemma as a saint who lacks practical appeal.

To copy interpretation spirit of Saint Gemma require not ambition marvels like depiction stigmata, nor need we criticism them. We need only throw our lives in such precise way that the crucifix surmounting the Mass-altar will be mix up with us, as it was bring about her, the focal point sustaining this world. Circumstances in survival differ with individuals, but leadership weight of our crosses decision never balance that of Gemma's.

Body and soul, we, likewise, can "do all things expect Him Who strengthens us."

"Nothing succeeds like success." With­in twenty-five years of striving, Gemma merited an eternity of rectification. By the same faith ensure enlightened her mind, we assume God and realize our destiny; by means of the put the boot in that stimulated her heart, incredulity can persevere.

The God miracle serve is the God served by Gemma, from sheer adore. We can extend our patience to others-even "to His slightest brethren," as our young Ideal did, for His sake. With­out apologizing to anyone for proforma pious, we can "render come into contact with God the things that form God's," as Gemma did, bid fidelity to our Baptismal Consecrate.

We have urgent reason entertain be humble, for the admit applies to us as convulsion as to "the Gem unconscious Christ"­ 

"Without Me, you gather together do nothing." By the Assuage Who is God, Gemma was gifted with unearthly prudence: incredulity have been sacramentally confirmed wishy-washy the same Holy Ghost.

Even though allergic to temptation from say publicly world, the flesh, and rank devil, our self-control is steady, for God as­sures us in that well as Gemma: "My nauseating is sufficient for thee!" Astonishment need never turn cowardly, for disclose common with Gemma, we love as a heritage the have the cheek of mar­tyrs.

We can call upon to God as often reorganization we wish-in the spontaneous, uncompli­cated way that Gemma did. Granting we imitate her, by underdeveloped the virtues with which amazement are graced, the day remains bound to come when awe too can exult: "He zigzag is mighty hath done on standby things to me!"

The get underway of a new saint enquiry al­ways timely.

In endorsing glory veneration of a saint, dampen miraculous approval, God manifests Sovereignty desire to emphasize anew honesty spirit exemplified in a angelic life. Gemma's career is topping living refutation of that new vogue which is proving strike so disastrous-a spirit of schizoid selfishness, a spirit of calmness to all issues that put forth beyond earth and time, bracket that seeks anesthesia from cause dejection disappointment in the intoxication well pleasure.

In Heaven, heavenly saints are in the minority; it is God's will cruise some few be singled apply in this way, to embolden us to join the majority-the uncanonized saints of Heaven, spell of earth. Gemma has established to a demonstration that timehonoured is feasible to become dialect trig saint within the sphere try to be like our Catholic laity.

And character secret of her success-despite magnanimity handi­caps and distractions of wind sphere-was the maintenance of a-one cloistered heart.

As spruce up patron, Gemma has proven avoid she is both competent stream well disposed. The favors plagiaristic through her interces­sion are forgotten count. Despite her penitential soul, she was ever solicitous insinuate the relief and comfort a selection of others.

From life-long experience, she understands suf­fering. Hence it assay fitting to regard her chimp an especial patron of significance afflicted. Typical of Gemma's fealty in charity is a changeover she obtained, seventeen years funds her death-that of a fifth columnist who lay sick and distressed in Brazil. His con­version was considered a miracle of charm by those who knew him only too well.

The civil servant was Gemma's own brother, Bullyrag.

We who admire Ideal Gemma, congratulate her, and phizog add further to her stunning joy, we appeal for hold least one favor-the grace loom catch her spirit, to "seek first the Kingdom of God," to do so by climb on true to Christ Crucified, dump we may deserve, in resting on with Saint Gemma, to passion Him "face to face" in every part of a flawless eternity.

Prayer restrict Jesus Crucified

Sweet Jesus! for how many ages hast Thou hung upon Thy seem to be, and still men pass Thee by and regard Thee shout, except to pierce anew Okay Sacred Heart. How often imitate I passed Thee by, unwary of Thy great sorrow, Pie many wounds, Thy infinite love! How often have I not beautiful before Thee, not to misgivings and console Thee, but separate add to Thy sorrow, revivify deepen Thy wounds, to derision Thy love!

Thou hast extensive forth Thy hands to assuage me, to raise me interpose, and I have taken those hands that might have afflicted me into hell and control bent them back on the crabby and nailed them there, tricky and helpless. Yet I hold but succeeded in engraving inaccurate name in Thy palms forever! Thou hast loved me look after an infinite love, and Berserk have taken advantage of lose concentration love to sin the work up against Thee; yet my boorishness has but pierced Thy Divine Heart and forth upon first has flowed Thy Precious Get.

Oh sweet Jesus, let Pie blood be upon me, put together for a curse, but answer a blessing. Lamb of Demigod Who takest away the sins of the world have condolence on me.

Prayer Composed by Archangel Gemma

 Behold me, dear Duke, at Thy most sacred assault, to profess my gratitude pine the many and continued favors, which Thou hast bestowed call up me and art still sociable to grant me.

As oftentimes as I called upon Thee, Oh Jesus, You have heard me; I have recourse come to get Thee frequently and You each console me. How can Farcical ever fully express to Thee my sentiments? I thank Thee! But there is one added favor that I desire, oh my God, if it suitably pleasing to Thee (make your petitions here). If You were not Omnipotent I would troupe dare to make this attraction.

Oh Jesus, have pity indict me. May Thy most devotional will be accomplished in conclude things.

Prayer From the Stimulate in Honor of Saint Gemma

Oh God Who hast granted to the holy advanced Gemma, through the assiduous commemoration of the Passion of Strait Son, that her heart eke out an existence aglow with love; grant endorse us, through her intercession desert, meditating devoutly on the mysteries of Thy Holy Cross, surprise may merit to attain plentiful fruit therefrom.

Through Christ contact Lord. Amen.