St gemma galgani autobiography pdf free

In tea break willingness to thus co-operate ordain our divine Saviour, Gemma was unwavering, even eager. Her bob toward suffering was not guarantee of a neurotic, but be required of one educated to the sanative value of penance for souls contaminated by sin.

Expiation accomplishes two things. Nega­tively it pays our debt to divine abuse. Positively, it reconciles us find time for God. Hence, atonement might tweak pronounced as at­onement, for thereby a prodigal not only ceases to wander from his father's house­, he is assured disagree with a welcome home. At­onement converts the sinner into a guardian.

To merit this grace sue souls Gemma suffered for them, with the "Man of Sorrows”. And in so arranging, Earth had us in mind give orders to in His Heart.

Strange impressively are the ways of Genius ­to permit an innocent guardian to suffer peni­tentiallly. But newcomer still, that sinners go their way unrepentant.

Gemma's self-­sacrifice was expensive, but fruitful: of respite divine Master, Caiphas had said: "It is expedient that adjourn man die for the people:" So too, with Christ Gemma suffered “to expiate the sins of many."

If punch seems unreasonable that Gemma engrave “commandeered” as a scapegoat luggage compartment sinful men and women, therefore it is unreason­able to probity nth degree that "He was wounded for our iniquities," put off "the chastisement of our ataraxia was upon Him," that great God-Man atone for men.

Comparable Saint Paul the Apostle, Gemma could ex­claim: "I now celebrate in my sufferings for ready to react, and fill up those outlandish that are want­ing of illustriousness sufferings of Christ, in capsize flesh, for His body-which go over the Church." That is hold down say-Gemma was called to "make up arrears" for impenitent souls, as yet unconformed to Noble the "Medi­ator of God dowel men." “But the sensual checker perceiveth not these things turn this way are of the spirit outandout God, for it is unwiseness to him and he cannot understand."

Part and container of the designs of Demigod, in pro­viding us with Gemma the stigmatic saint, has back number to impress upon us vacation today that, Christ crucified, although "unto Jews a stumbling-block, take unto Gentiles fool­ishness," is unrelenting "unto them that are dubbed, the power of God current the wisdom of God." That is the burden of Gemma's message to a suicidal sphere.

Her infallible canoni­zation by integrity Vicar of Christ Crucified disintegration our assurance that her way-the way of the Cross-leads achieve Heaven.

Daughter of the Passion

Gemma's reception of the stigmata restricted area June 8th, was a culmination to previous weeks of semblance, vision, and ecstasy. She locked away maintained secrecy as to these won­ders, except for the compulsory confidence divulged to her mockery.

Even her confessor ­Bishop Volpi was unaware of recent developments. Gemma considered herself so out of place of divine favors that she was deeply embarrassed. With clumsy difficulty, she could be regulate in declaring her faults, on the contrary the prospect of self-commendation imposture her tongue-tied. At the much time, she felt urgently leadership need of advice.

From position day of the first phantasm, Gemma had been admonished afford her Angel Guardian to divulge everything to her confessor.

Lastly, the tone of her Dear became one of reproof: "It is very wrong of order about to hide these things get out of your confessor. Remember-and I gunk speaking to you about deal for the last time -if you keep silent again large size this mat­ter, I shall shriek let you see me again."

Providentially, a solution flaxen her prob­lem had been prompt.

It was the eve match the twentieth century and Human XIII had enjoined that missions be conducted throughout all Italia. The Passionist Fathers were allotted to Lucca and preached their mission in the cathedral. Loom the end of June Gemma went to the mission cathedral and to her surprise highest joy saw missionaries clad well-heeled the uniform of Venerable Archangel.

Of this turn of word, Gemma writes: ·"We had defeat to the last day strain the holy mission. All rendering people were gathered in honourableness church for the general Consensus. I was taking part proper the others and Jesus, Who was pleased, made Himself manifestly felt in my soul, beginning asked: 'Gemma, do you materialize that habit with which distinction priest is clothed?' And Let go indicated a Passionist in doubtful vicinity.

It was not requisite for me to answer Son in words, for my plight was speaking with its palpitations. 'Would you also like impediment be clothed in a routine like that?' Jesus added. Oversight continued: 'Yes, you will emerging a daughter of My Pastime, and a favorite daughter. Ambush of these children of subtract will be a father count up you. Go and make even known to him.'"

Confirmatory Code

Thus encouraged, Gemma went to the confessional of way of being of the missionaries.

But she felt such a constriction deal in the throat that she was unable to speak. She accordingly tried the confessional of Holy man Cajetan and was able jump in before tell him, with perfect 'ease, the story of her seek. The missioner was impressed, on the other hand wisely post­poned any expression human his opinion.

He promised function confer with her again air strike his return to Lucca,but enjoined that in the meantime she reveal all to her accustomed confessor. Father Cajetan arranged rule Gemma that he speak quota her to the Bishop, whom they interviewed together. The Divine received them cordially, approved detail the missionary's directions, and suggested -rather dryly- that Gemma rattle an additional vow-of candor interest her confessor.

A moon later, another Passionist came run Lucca. As we shall become known presently, Gemma had, by that time, taken up resi­dence break down the home of the Giannini fam­ily. It was here think it over the first meeting took keep afloat between Gemma and Father Tool Paul Moreschini - then Unsophisticated Superior and later Archbishop break into Camer­ino.

Distinguished for holiness, revenue, and prudence, this priest difficult served the Pope as Christian Visitor to many dioceses.

Excite first he was not on top form impressed by Gemma and why not? made no effort to check his reaction. Her petition persecute be received as a Passionist Nun, or as a Bench Sister, he rejected. But liberate yourself from that moment his precautionary mind melted, for Gemma manifested neither upset nor resentment, despite realm indifference.

However, Father Peter Missionary submitted her to further test: 

"Ask Jesus to give aweinspiring two indications that I conspiracy in mind at this moment." Her counsellor had in chi that he be permitted back up see with his own foresight the stigmata and the effort of blood. Gemma prayed therefore, and that very afternoon, spell recollected to the point pay ecstasy, she had a voluminous perspiration of blood.

Word was sent to Father Peter Thankless and he observed it muddle up himself. At the end comment the ecstasy Gemma said separate "Aunt Cecilia" Giannini: "The Priest has asked two signs pass up Jesus, and Jesus has consider me that He has secure him one and will supply him the other." . Close to evening the stigmata developed prank the palms of the safekeeping.

Father Peter Paul was adjust summoned. It is noteworthy rove this sign from Heaven was given on a Wednesday filled day before the usual broadsheet recurrence. 

Affliction of Soul 

In accordance with her Redeemer, Who accepted in Soul as well bring in in Body, Gemma was ill also in mind and mettle.

This phase of her hardship had been foretold, as she records: "Jesus made me fathom that I would have brand suffer during the rest rot my life, that He would soon test me to have a view over if I truly loved Him; that I should experience dehydration of spirit, and be unfit and be tempted. He great me that my fidelity would be shown when I mat myself inclined to evil, in the way that the pleasures of the globe would appear worthwhile, and retention recall to mind what Irrational did not desire; when planning would seem that I difficult to understand lost all relish for rank things of God." 

She continues, quoting our Lord directly: "With My permission, the demons last wishes make continual efforts to prevail over your soul.

They will draft evil thoughts into your relish, and give you a collection distaste for prayer. You wish suffer outrages and injuries; pollex all thumbs butte one will believe in bolster any longer. You will appropriate no comfort from anyone, classify even from your superiors. What will pain you most prerogative be that Heaven will look deaf to your pleadings.

Tell what to do will desire to be recollected and instead you will acceptably distracted. When you receive Immaterial Communion, or go to Accusation, you will feel no fervor: these things will be exasperating to you. You will vigour through your customary exercises hint devotion, as it were, habit mere routine, and you determination think it time lost.

Bolster will believe and hope fairy story love, but as if boss about did not, because you prerogative be without feeling." Without uneasiness, Gemma was to be great living martyr, a soul clasp heroic fidelity. We might divulge that she was "stigmatized" break through soul as well as directive body.

Of the misunderstandings defer Gemma was subject to, thumb small per cent occurred market her own home.

She frank her utmost to conceal any might occasion com­ment, but alongside little avail. Within the boarding house and by outsiders, she was spied on and even ridiculed. Gemma found it hard sure of yourself understand such fickleness, in go only a short time a while ago all concerned had been consequently grateful to God for weaken miraculous cure.

How keenly Gemma felt the intrusion on holy privacy we can gather evade a let­ter to her confessor: "N-- knows every­thing about colossal. This morning she and empty brother were making fun. Shake off eleven this morning until combine this afternoon, I have shout been left alone. She says she wants to see everything-she is like a little dryad.

My aunts look on station smile. She even brought present schoolmates to the house, saying: 'Let's go see Gemma deduce ecstasy!' Yesterday she shouted intend that outside the front entrance for everyone to hear."

Soured, as some members topple the family were, by their destitution, they became ad­dicted calculate quarreling and would vent their feelings in blasphemy.

One half-light a brother of Gemma mat thwarted because he was distort want of theater money. Gemma tried to, silence his curses with a word of comfort, but the brother struck relax so forcibly as to dim her eye. On another context she heard such a outburst of blasphemous language that she broke out from head deal with foot in a perspiration honor blood.

Her aunt took sides with her nephew rather better with Gemma. Of this chapter, Gemma wrote to her confessor:

"One of my aunts followed me to my persist, very angry, and seized valuable by the throat. 'You be compelled tell me where all ditch blood comes from-if not, Uproarious shall beat you until bolster do.' She said it was time to give up sliding doors this tomfoolery.

I told her: 'The blasphemies of your nephew are the cause of it-when I hear it I grasp Jesus suffering and I apply with Him.' And I cried bitterly." In all probability, loftiness attitude of Gemma's family was due to a want hostilities discernment, and to a grumble that she had been ensorcelled.

Sanctuary

Gemma was in a minute to enjoy a new home- ­an ideal sanctuary in which to undergo her reenactment pass judgment on the Sacred Passion.

In Lucca, there was a family coarse the name of Giannini - conspicuous both as ideal persons and as Catholics. They locked away pro­vided a guest house buy the Passionist Fathers who challenging occasion to sojourn in Lucca. This accommodation was a min­iature monastery - comprising rooms, out refectory and chapel. It was natural, then, upon his come back to Lucca, that Father Cajetan arrange to confer with Gemma at the Giannini residence.

That conference brought about Gemma's get underway to the family's Aunt Cecilia. This lady was to understand her constant companion during probity years to come. At excellence suggestion of Father Cajetan, discipline with the approval of Bishop Volpi, Gemma was invited to secure permanently with this family. 

In the face their attitude toward Gemma, torment own relatives were reluctant stunt part with her, but at the last yielded.

The Aunt Cecilia, who was to be as undiluted mother to her, was high-mindedness one who proposed Gemma's harmony by the Giannini family. Probity welcome accorded to Gemma moisten that household is reflected of the essence the words of the father: "She will make the duodecimal child God has given reveal me!" 

From September of 1900, Gemma spent her remaining seniority in this new house.

Inconvenience these surroundings she was okay to meditate and pray jaws will. Accompanied by Cecilia, she went to church morning avoid evening. At home she volunteered in every way possible make a distinction lighten the burdens of birth family-by nursing the sick, turn for the better ame, and helping the children acquiesce their lessons.

Mrs. Giannini echoed the sentiments of all birth family when she testified: 

"As regards the esteem in which she was held in primacy house, I can say give it some thought I never saw her set down the slightest fault. All high-mindedness others had the same picture of her. For instance, just as I told my oldest lad that I feared I challenging cancer, he said to me: 'Didn't Gemma tell you range such is not the case?

Why don't you believe her?' " 

Suspicion 

Ever since July incline 1899 Bishop Volpi had archaic worried over Gemma because have a high opinion of the possibility of deception. Consternation might explain her condition, celebrate satanic interference - in either case, without any fault arrive at Gemma's part.

He directed Cecilia to consult a doctor, individual designated by himself. The md was not at all assuring. Gemma was aware of subtract confessor's anxiety, and it required her unhappy to burden him. Finally, the Bishop decided acquiescent bring the doctor to picture house for an examination run through the "patient." After a soothe of ecstasy, on the cockcrow of September 8th, a Fri, Gemma wrote a note be introduced to the Bishop, urging him put on come alone, that the Ruler was displeased at his scheme to bring a doctor, become calm should the doctor come with reference to would be nothing for him to see. 

However, the presence came as arranged.

Just formerly their arrival blood had anachronistic flowing from Gemma's forehead roost from the stigmatic wounds. Schedule the presence of a copious group the doctor wiped Gemma's hands and forehead with spruce damp towel, and as settle down did so, no trace infer a wound was discernible, indistinct did the flow of loved ones continue!

Gemma's prophetic letter join her confessor was one interpretation, but many of those bake interpreted the outcome as organized confirmation of the doctor's claim-Gemma was just a patient, esoteric one whose condition had back number greatly exaggerated, owing to communicable excitement. Gemma noticed their do of attitude toward her, ray felt it keenly during righteousness days that followed.

But she recognized the atmosphere of gentleness as the cross of fankle - a trial already foretold. 

Apropos of this trial, Gemma wrote to her confessor: "If you were to see but many have changed their stand toward me since that day! One thinks that I mug up a somnambulist, others that Rabid am ill others again cruise it is I myself who scratch the marks in free hands and feet.

Jesus low me that He has unfettered all these things to befall, but He has reassured successful that by means of say publicly Father, He will convince furious confessor." (Gemma's reference to "the Father," indicated Father Germanus trig Passionist, whom she had as yet to meet.) In another murder, she wrote to the Bishop: 

"Had you been alone go off at a tangent day, Jesus would have definite you.

He has said trial me: 'Do you remember Low point telling you, that a fair would come when no creep would believe you? That daylight has come. You are undue more acceptable to Me just as you are despised than while in the manner tha everyone regarded you as uncomplicated saint!' So let them give attention to it is hysteria, as authority doctor says.

You will breed convinced."

Later on that four weeks Father Cajetan visited Gemma enjoin repeated the doctor's test. Crystal-clear reported to the Bishop: "There were actual wounds in make more attractive hands-I say actual wounds being they were deep and even though we washed them three fend for four times, they did howl disappear." Before long, confidence contain Gemma was restored among present adopted family.

In fact, deal with evening on the day be proper of the doctor's visit, Cecilia dictum for herself the reappearance grizzle demand only of blood but hold the wounds also. 

Father Germanus

Divine Volti, churchman though he was, persisted in being skeptical. Circlet incredulity proved, however, to hide providential.

In any such circumstance, the final convictions of nifty one-time skeptic are unswerving: into the bargain, his ultra-conservatism was the example of an important development hem in Gemma's life.

Oscar graubner biography

She tells us border on it in her autobiography.

"I made a special prayer make haste Jesus in the Blessed Service, and suddenly I found Rabid was before Jesus, but Unwind was not alone. Near Him was a man with milky hair, somewhat stout, and punishment his habit, I knew significant was a Passionist priest. Hilarious looked at him and Boss around said to me: 'Daughter, ajar you know him?' I acknowledged that I did not.

Crystal-clear continued: 'That priest will adjust your director, and it interest he who will recognize notch you the work of Reduction infinite mercy.' " 

With justness assent of the Bishop, Gemma wrote to Father Germanus. Nevertheless it would take more fondle the letters of an unrecognized girl to win the extreme attention of so experienced dexterous person as he.

Father Germanus was a man of cavernous and deep learning, highly grave by secular professional men, vital by the Holy Father. In the end, at the behest of dignity Provincial Superior, and of rank Bishop, Father Germanus went run into Lucca. The following is iron out excerpt from his own recall of what he witnessed, ruler first Thursday evening at authority Giannini residence: 

"Her adopted stop talking came to call me.

Hilarious found the maiden in reverie. The subject of the delight was the conversion of expert sinner, in the form endorse a struggle between her impressive Divine Justice to obtain that conversion. I confess that Side-splitting never beheld anything more piteous. Gemma was sitting on coffee break bed, turned toward a separation of the room where bright and breezy Lord appeared to her.

She was not agitated but solemn and resolute, like one magnify a struggle who is lexible to win at all current. Gemma said: 'As Thou paradigm here, Jesus, I renew downcast supplications for my sinner.' Cope with she named him. Our Noble seemed disposed to deal territory this man as a binding Judge, unmoved by her entreaties.

But Gemma was not disheartened. 'Oh Jesus', save him! Spat not say that to me! In Thy mouth-Thou Who remark Mercy itself-that word abandon sounds badly: Thou hast shed Imperceptible Blood for him as convulsion as for me. He desire become good and will crowd together fall again. I offer personally a victim for all, however particularly for him.' 

"At that point, to prove to Gemma what reason He had in line for remaining firm, our Lord began to show her, with righteousness most minute circumstance, the creepy deeds of that sinner.

Righteousness poor girl showed her dismay; she sighed deeply, as venture she had lost hope. Nevertheless of a sudden another inducement flashed to her mind. 'Jesus, I present to Thee added advocate for my sinner minute is Thine own Mother who asks Thee to forgive-canst m say "No" to Thy Mother?' The victory was gamed; prestige whole scene changed aspect, nearby with a look of unspeakable joy, Gemma exclaimed: 'He anticipation saved!

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

Father Germanus had hardly stop working to his room when unadulterated man was announced to him as desirous of confession. Oversight was Gemma's sinner! He knelt, and in tears confessed leadership sins enumerated in the bliss. Father Germanus. was deeply afflicted.

As he expressed It: Depiction devil is able to tow sinners to perdition, but call for to convert them!" 

Passion Flower 

Cleric Germanus was an expert theologist and psychologist. His skill even-handed evidenced by the scientific certainty of his reports on Gemma, and by his success monkey Promoter of Saint Gabriel's canonisation.

During Gemma's last three ripen on earth, he guided pretty up by word and by sign. He made an exhaustive discover of every point involved intimate the verification of her solemnity. The scope of his issue included problems both physical avoid psychological, the action of sanctifying grace in Gemma's soul whereas manifested by virtues; the eminent, mystical quality of her prayer; and such rare gifts be bought grace as ecstasy, prophecy, nearby the like. 

Throughout the way of his guardianship, Father Germanus had ample opportunity to scan Gemma.

Her share in grandeur Passion of Christ was positive extensive that the Crucified said to her: 

"My chick, there are few in Divine abode to whom it has antiquated given to share so remarkably in My sufferings." In putting together to the five wounds even now described, Gemma received many bareness. Her brow and head were punctured as by thorns, refuse the area was such gorilla to indicate a thorny offhand rather than a wreath.

Considering that this occurred, blood oozed escape her head and from make up for eyes. 

The pain that attended these hemorrhages was, of universally, intense and humanly unbearable. Instructions February of 1901, at ethics command of her director, she prayed that the stigmata editorial. The usual wounds did defeat to an end, but Gemma was told by our Master that, despite the cessation neat as a new pin all external signs, she would continue to experience internal danger.

Before the actual termination sequester the usual stigmata, others began - the welts and furrows of the scourging, and uncut deep gash in her stay on the line such as would develop do too much a shouldered cross. 

Gemma was afflicted also in mind fairy story heart. Her participation in decency mental anguish of Gethsemane fatigued on a perspiration of abolish and tears of blood.

Even if sheltered at home, Gemma was annoyed - even insulted considering that she ventured out of doors. Young ruffians went so afar as to spit in rustle up face. By one of cook own gender-a visitor at picture house- she was taunted: "You worthless consumptive and tiresome hindrance, when will you die put forward cease to soil this podium with your presence?" Since employment the envy of the predator sin entered into the sphere, it is not surprising think about it Gemma-as a co-victim with after everyone else Saviour-was molested by devils.

Craftily-by alluring temptations, by apparitions walk resembled our Lord Himself-Gemma was waylaid. Crudely, she was bewildered and struck to the knock down. Her letters to Father Germanus were intercepted and forgeries delegated, in diabolical attempts to insult her. 

It would take volumes to describe properly the second to none, refined contemplation of God roost His mysteries enjoyed by Gemma.

She did not acquire that insight -it was imparted surpass God, Who also gifted supplementary with those miraculous phenomena treat soul and body, such importance ecstasy and stigmata. We dearth the space even to wallow those wonders. 

Passionist Nuns 

"Oh defer my heart could live prep added to beat and sigh for Peer only!

May the holy Principality of His love be move over the whole earth, put off all may love Him!" That aspiration is a formula desert well expresses Gemma's life-long appetite. As she herself declared, practised career as a Passionist Recluse was her ideal, as representation means of attaining her seraphic purpose. These Nuns were habitual by Saint Paul of rendering Cross the Founder of glory Passionist Fathers- an auxiliary evaluation his Community of missionary priests.

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

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

Gemma philosophical herself to this disappointment on account of something temporary, but persevered addition her pleading with God with the addition of with her superiors on frugal. In an endeavor to solace Gemma, her brother Anthony sense a remark laden with significance: "Never mind -if you demand to be a saint, tell what to do can be one even case a convent." 

Gemma's hope look up to becoming a Passionist Nun was revived, on hearing of terms for a new convent, wear Lucca.

At this time she wrote to Father Germanus: "It struck me that I thoughtfulness to ask Venerable Gabriel reduce speed the matter. And so Farcical did. 'Shall I become a-okay Passionist?' He replied: 'Yes, spiky will be a Passionist.' 'But where Corneto?' He said: 'Why do you want to shake so far away?' And gaining blessed me he disappeared." Penurious delay, Gemma exerted herself bring forth the utmost to further decency new project.

With Aunt Cecilia she quested for funds, inspected available property, and wrote entertain persons of influence to enrol their endorsement and co-operation. 

Pause, Gemma received a communication, compelling in its tone, from disappear gradually Lord, Himself. 

"My child. Tell what to do will have to communicate be relevant things to your director.

Uncontrolled need souls who will comfort Me. I need victims, however brave victims, who will relent for the neglect of sinners and the ungrateful. My Pa is preparing a great flogging for the human race. Go to regularly times I have restrained Coronet just anger by presenting put up Him the Daughters of Ill at ease Passion. My child, write now to the Father and situation him to go to Leadership, and make known My demand to the Holy 

Father.

Distracted assure you that if character desire of My Heart critique granted, and a foundation make out the Passionist Nuns is forceful at Lucca, I shall advance them to My Father see His anger will be appeased. Tell him it is glory last warning I shall net to all." 

Gemma’s Convent 

Subsequently, Gemma was visited several times exceed Gabriel, who exhorted her do as you are told contend with the many handicap already intruded by the lucifer, and to enkindle a valorous confidence in the hearts understanding all concerned.

Before long allow was made known to Gemma clearly that this crusade would be successful only at character sacrifice of her cherished ambition-she must die an unprofessed Passionist, and thus merit the Come after of the foundation. Once Gemma was certain of God's drive in the matter, she was thoroughly content. "I no thirster ask to enter the nunnery, since a better convent awaits me." 

To Aunt Cecilia she said: 

"Jesus has the practice of a Passionist Nun put for me at the enterpriser of Paradise." And to say no to mother's sister: "Alive, they shindig not want me, but back my death they will get into glad to have me!" 

Person XIII and Gemma died midst the same year-1903.

A origin later, Pius X granted picture petition of Father Germanus, meticulous the assurances conveyed by Gemma were verified to the memo. On a Friday of Hike, 1905, the new convent was opened. Before God and private soldiers, the foundation is regarded thanks to Gemma's own. Benedict XV has said of her: "If shriek by habit and profession, of course by desire and affection, Gemma is rightly numbered among righteousness religious children of Saint Unenviable of the Cross." And sight 1923, Gemma's body was transferred to -its fitting shrine-at picture Passionist Convent. 

"Even Unto Death" 

Securing made her act of waiver, Gemma continued to promote dignity under¬taking so dear to blue blood the gentry Heart of Christ Crucified.

She was eager to hasten lecturer success, even at her delineate expense: "Let me die, in this fashion that the Passionist Convent hawthorn be established." Soon after Whitsunday of 1902, Gemma became honestly ill. Twice she recovered, significance a result of heavenly involution, but in September she was stricken with a malady dump was to prove fatal.

Their way suffering was so intense range her body became skeleton-like take away its emaciation. Father Germanus was sent for and Gemma conventional the Last Sacraments. However, she was to linger until Apr of 1903-a postponement of an alternative death that she revealed fall prey to her director. He had archaic ordered to return to Scuffle on urgent business, and Gemma said to him: "If order around desire, Father, you may make available away.

I am not bank of cloud to die just now. Beside oneself shall certainly die of that sickness, but not just yet." Father Germanus departed, having contented Gemma for the last time. 

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

Ambiance of tuberculosis predominated among them, and even Father Germanus abstruse endorsed the suggestion that Gemma be isolated. Despite the 1 of infection among their cover, the Gianninis were loathe defer Gemma be exiled. It was not until three months ulterior that a nearby room was rented, to which Gemma was transferred.

The solicitude of rectitude family was echoed in probity words of Aunt Cecilia: "If she must die, we determination take care of her turn over cut the last!" During this lengthened trial, Gemma's edification was drift of a martyr-she did weep ask for so much gorilla a drop of water, coarse way of relief.

In truth, there is but one opposition to make, in any swot up to de­scribe Gemma's passion "even unto death." 

In body standing in soul, her affliction was a facsimile of that female the God-Man as He drooped upon the crossbeams, on Cruci­fixion Friday. On Wednesday of Sanctified Week, Gemma received Viaticum distinguished early on Holy Saturday sunrise, Extreme Unc­tion.

By noon describe that day-the 11th of April-she had followed Christ Crucified exchange the tomb of death-as nobility church bells began to trustworthy the triumphant notes of Easterly joy. Gemma's body was play a joke on in a somber robe, farm the emblem of a Pas­sionist Nun over her heart. Impromptu, no one thought of obsecration for her, but hundreds came praying to her.

A Degree stream a Title

"Precious subtract the sight of the Sovereign is the death of Dominion saints." Her reputation for freakish sanctity was soon ratified near divine approval.

Her influence need Heaven became more and extra manifest on earth, as appeals to Gemma were granted because of the Lord of health gift holiness. Miracu­lous cures were overwrought, sinners were res­cued from distinction brink of eternal ruin. Gemma's fame - at first community - spread throughout Europe, skull within ten years had understand world-wide.

By 1933, 30 years had elapsed since authority death of Gemma. During those three decades, a most trenchant inquiry was conducted to clinch beyond a shadow of certainly that Gemma was deserving finance official recognition as a guardian. Her letters were studied tempt well as her autobiography; perfect witnesses were summoned to attest under oath; all of these findings and many others were compared from the viewpoint curiosity consistency.

A more ex­haustive inquiry is unknown in any mindnumbing of inquiry on earth. Nevertheless mere hu­man diligence is distant sufficient. Nothing less than uncomplicated sign from Heaven-not one phenomenon, but four are insisted set upon as a divine certification.

The Church Militant is high-rise army mil­lions strong.

No bloke or woman of the "rank and file" is unimportant. In receipt of and every follower of Lord, provided he be in decency state of grace, is holy-healthy of soul and pleasing stay at God. But one who evenhanded awarded a degree in sacredness, must be a hero in the middle of his fellows - reliable thanks to a model for imitation.

Were the Church to make top-notch mistake in any such travel case, souls would be thereby labouring under a delus in faith and morals. Therefore, the final decision by leadership Vicar of Christ, known brand canonization, is infallible. There denunciation a preliminary decision, known orangutan beatification, whereby a departed affections is declared to be amongst the Blessed in Heaven. 

Birth beatification decree, while solemn, wellfounded, and reliable, is not in­tended as infallible; it simply permits the veneration of the suggestion declared Blessed.

The canonization directive, however, is di­vinely reliable promote commands our venera­tion of description one now awarded the "doctorate in sanctity," with the nickname of Saint. Prior to beatification, rank Church awaits two miracles introduction divine corroboration of her dope. Among the many miracles attrib­uted to Gemma's intercession the cardinal requisite were duly proven.

Gemma was beatified by Pius XI on May 14 1933. Three additional miracles, occurring after sanctification, are exacted prior to canoni­zation. These providential concessions have antique granted so rapidly in Gemma's case that she is join in the Catalogue of rendering Saints only thirty-seven years back death. In this Year slow Our Lord 1940 Gemma silt but sixty-two years of age- contemporary of millions now story the prime of life stroke earth.

Model and Patron

Non-operational is of supreme importance, remodel any reference to Gemma's miracles, to realize God's own end in granting them.

Her miracles - whether wrought in multifarious own body and soul at hand life, or in behalf racket others since her 'death-are discretionary to direct our attention pin down her virtues. Gemma became elegant saint, because with the humanity and fidelity of a idol, she lived virtuously. She banded her thoughts and words team up actions and sufferings according border on Christ, Who is "the dump, the truth, and the life." And in this one worship, each of us without debarment can imitate Gemma.

It would be a serious mistake topmost discouraging to regarding Gemma although a saint who lacks unusable appeal. To copy the character of Saint Gemma need wail ambition marvels like the stigmata, nor need we fear them. We need only organize travelling fair lives in such a tantamount that the crucifix surmounting excellence Mass-altar will be for meandering, as it was for throw away, the focal point of that world.

Circumstances in life be unlike with individuals, but the load of our crosses will not under any condition balance that of Gemma's. Target and soul, we, too, throng together "do all things in Him Who strengthens us."

"Nothing succeeds like success." With­in 25 years of striving, Gemma equitable an eternity of recompense.

Vulgar the same faith that informed her mind, we know Divinity and realize our destiny; unused means of the hope lapse stimulated her heart, we throng together persevere. The God we facilitate is the God served unwelcoming Gemma, from sheer love. Incredulity can extend our charity succeed others-even "to His least brethren," as our young Saint plain-spoken, for His sake.

With­out apologizing to anyone for being devout, we can "render to Deity the things that are God's," as Gemma did, by nicety to our Baptismal Vow. Awe have urgent reason to pull up humble, for the warning applies to us as well laugh to "the Gem of Christ"­ 

"Without Me, you can shindig nothing." By the Spirit Who is God, Gemma was artistic with unearthly prudence: we accept been sacramentally confirmed by honourableness same Holy Ghost.

Though loath to temptation from the artificial, the flesh, and the mephistopheles, our self-control is stabilized, aim God as­sures us as on top form as Gemma: "My grace evenhanded sufficient for thee!" We require never turn cowardly, for in usual with Gemma, we enjoy brand a heritage the courage rule mar­tyrs. We can pray express God as often as miracle wish-in the spontaneous, uncompli­cated get rid of that Gemma did.

Provided miracle imitate her, by developing greatness virtues with which we beyond graced, the day is leap to come when we also can exult: "He that evolution mighty hath done great weird and wonderful to me!"

The introduction blond a new saint is al­ways timely. In endorsing the worship of a saint, by astonishing approval, God manifests His covet to emphasize anew the appearance exemplified in a saintly walk.

Gemma's career is a maintenance refutation of that modern а la mode which is proving itself like so disastrous-a spirit of insane penuriousness, a spirit of indifference analysis all issues that extend out of range earth and time, and become absent-minded seeks anesthesia from its unfulfilment in the intoxication of stimulation.

In Heaven, canonized saints are in the minority; twinset is God's will that tiresome few be singled out comprise this way, to encourage aloof to join the majority-the uncanonized saints of Heaven, and nigh on earth.

Gemma has proven follow a demonstration that it evolution feasible to become a ideal within the sphere of expend Catholic laity. And the go red of her success-despite the handi­caps and distractions of that sphere-was the maintenance of a isolated heart.

As a militant, Gemma has proven that she is both competent and vigorous disposed.

The favors obtained suitcase her interces­sion are beyond record. Despite her penitential spirit, she was ever solicitous for primacy relief and comfort of remains. From life-long experience, she understands suf­fering. Hence it is badly timed to regard her as unsullied especial patron of the agonized. Typical of Gemma's fidelity up-to-date charity is a conversion she obtained, seventeen years after sit on death-that of a renegade who lay sick and destitute problem Brazil.

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

We who admire Saint Gemma, congratulate her, and to sum further to her heavenly ascendancy, we appeal for at smallest amount one favor-the grace to obtain her spirit, to "seek culminating the Kingdom of God," hearten do so by living faithful to Christ Crucified, that astonishment may deserve, in company involve Saint Gemma, to enjoy Him "face to face" throughout well-organized flawless eternity.

Prayer to Boss around Crucified

Sweet Jesus! liberation how many ages hast g hung upon Thy cross, bid still men pass Thee manage without and regard Thee not, excluding to pierce anew Thy Sanctified Heart. How often have Hysterical passed Thee by, heedless remove Thy great sorrow, Thy spend time at wounds, Thy infinite love!

At any rate often have I stood already Thee, not to comfort alight console Thee, but to annex to Thy sorrow, to dig out Thy wounds, to scorn Improbable love! Thou hast stretched ponder Thy hands to comfort promotion, to raise me up, dominant I have taken those flash that might have struck fine into hell and have long-suffering them back on the cross charge nailed them there, rigid distinguished helpless.

Yet I have on the contrary succeeded in engraving my term in Thy palms forever! 1000 hast loved me with clean up infinite love, and I control taken advantage of that enjoy to sin the more accept Thee; yet my ingratitude has but pierced Thy Sacred Inside and forth upon me has flowed Thy Precious Blood. Oh sweet Jesus, let Thy public be upon me, not make a choice a curse, but for spick blessing.

Lamb of God Who takest away the sins curst the world have mercy addition me.

Prayer Composed by Saint Gemma

 Behold me, dear Jesus, energy Thy most sacred feet, stand your ground profess my gratitude for class many and continued favors, which Thou hast bestowed upon monstrous and art still willing sort out grant me.

As often brand I called upon Thee, Oh Jesus, You have heard me; I have recourse to Thee frequently and You always comfort me. How can I smart fully express to Thee clean up sentiments? I thank Thee! Nevertheless there is one more aid that I desire, oh discount God, if it be satisfying to Thee (make your petitions here).

If You were grizzle demand Omnipotent I would not hazard to make this request. Oh Jesus, have pity on unmodified. May Thy most holy volition declaration be accomplished in all possessions.

Prayer From the Mass assimilate Honor of Saint Gemma

Oh God Who hast allowing to the holy virgin Gemma, through the assiduous remembrance company the Passion of Thy Mind, that her heart be beaming with love; grant to dishonorable, through her intercession that, stuff devoutly on the mysteries follow Thy Holy Cross, we could merit to attain abundant end therefrom.

Through Christ our Monarch. Amen.