The Life of a Saint

By: Rachelle N. Brown

Ms. Lambert

Introduction to Catholicism (A-3)

October 24, 2009

Thesis:

This project explains the life of Maria Goretti and highlights important facts that occurred in her life. It will also give specific dates and will tell when she was canonized, beatified, and venerated. Furthermore, it will tell the story of a twelve year old who was a virgin-martyr and help others to understand who she is and why she was declared a saint.

A. The Early Life of Maria Teresa Goretti.

1. When was Maria Goretti born?

a. Maria was born on October 16, 1890.

2. An explanation of her family

a. Her mother was Assunta and her father’s name was Luigi.

b. She was the third child of six children.

c. She was called “little Madonna” because she was a holy young child.

3. Family poverty

a. Her family became very poor so they had to work for other farmers.

B. The Big Move

1. Why did her family have to move?

a. They had to move because the family became poor.

2. The Serenellis

a. A family that consisted of a father and a son. This was the family that Maria’s family would live with.

3. A breathtaking tragedy.

a. Her father passes away when she is nine.

C. The Unwanted Advances

1. How did Maria die?

a. Maria was stabbed 14 times.

D. Santa Maria Basilica

1. Where is she incorrupted?

a. She is incorrupted at Santa Maria Basilica.

2. Captured and Tried.

a. Alessandro is captured and tried shortly after her death.

3. Forgiveness is given.

a. Maria’s family forgives Alessandro.

E. The Conclusions

1. When is her feast day?-July 6

2. Patron- crime victims, teenage girls, children of Mary

3. Beatified- April 27, 1947

4. Canonization- June 24, 1950

5. Attributes- 14 lilies, farmer’s clothing, and occasionally a knife

Maria Teresa Goretti was born on October 16,...