Model for the Young

The Church celebrates the memorial of Saint Maria Goretti, a Virgin and Martyr. As I was preparing for Mass this morning, I happened to look at the Ordo, the book that guides the liturgical year of the Church, and saw that Saint Maria was martyred in 1902, 110 years ago. Saint Maria was born into a poor and had a hard childhood. It is said that she was a pious girl and devoted to prayer. Rather than yielding to an aggressor, she defended her chastity and was stabbed to death. We know that chastity is a virture and a gift from God. We talk about chastity to our young people, letting them know that relations are meant for the marriage bond. Being chaste allows a husband and wife to truly give themselves to each other. All of us are called to live holy and chaste lives. These are gifts from God and He gives us the grace that we need to live them each day. By being people of prayer, we can learn to keep those communication lines with God open each day. We can grow in our conversation with God so when times of temptation arise, He can help us overcome what is going on at that time and avoid falling into sin. The pious and prayerful nature of Saint Maria Goretti is an example for all of us. We pray for our young people that they may be open to God's will in their lives. May we all listen to the voice of God, following His will, and following where He will lead us. Saint Maria Goretti, Pray for Us!!!