Novena to Saint Maria Goretti 2017 | Day 7

July 3rd

When Maria was assaulted, her assailant Alessandro threatened to kill her if she did not submit to him. Maria refused. She would rather die than relinquish her virtue. Alessandro then stabbed her multiple times. Afterward, Maria was taken to the hospital where a team of doctors attempted heroically to save her life.

Badly dehydrated due to her loss of blood, she begged for water, but was unable to receive it on account of complication from her wounds. Before surgery, a priest administered Last Rites, telling her that Our Lord also suffered from thirst during his agony on the Cross. He asked Maria if she would offer up her thirst to Jesus for the salvation of sinners. Maria agreed, and didn't ask for water again.

St. Maria Goretti Novena Prayers - Day 6

St. Maria Goretti, beautiful model of christian suffering, pray for me. You carried your cross so courageously while you underwent surgery without anesthesia. You thirsted and were not able to be given water. You accepted that cross willingly because you loved our Lord. She me how to be patient and forgiving. Please pray for me, St. Maria Goretti, that I become better at carrying my cross like Christ.

Please pray also for (mention your intentions here). Amen.

O God, author of innocence and chastity, who bestowed the grace of martyrdom on your handmaid, the Virgin Saint Maria Goretti, in her youth, grant, we pray, through her intercession, that, as you gave her a crown for her steadfastness, so we too may be firm in obeying your commandments. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, who reigns with you, and with the Holy Spirit, one God for ever. Amen.

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