Book review: St. Maria Goretti: In Garments All Red

St. Maria Goretti: In Garments All Red by Fr. Godfrey Poage, C.P. (87 pages)

Most people know the story of young Maria Goretti who chose to die, rather than commit a mortal sin. Few, however, know the amazing and beautiful story that preceded and followed Maria’s death. How did Maria make such a remarkable decision at such a young age? What happened in the hours that followed the stabbing, as Maria lingered between life and death? And perhaps one of the greatest questions: What happened to Alessandro Serenelli, the man who fatally wounded Maria?

This little book tells the story of Maria: her family and their struggles, her own virtuous life, the great martyrdom she accepted, and finally, her canonization. Following the Epilogue are pictures of the home where Maria lived, the chapels created in her memory, her canonization, and pictures of her mother and Alessandro years after her death. The book ends with the homily given at Maria’s canonization, as well as prayers and novena specifically dedicated to Maria. This book is an inspiring must-read for all young people.