Saint Gemma Galgani

As her illness had taken a toll on her strength, Saint Gemma Galgani was not able to return to school. She remained at home and taught her sisters and brothers.

At her beatification, one of her brothers said, "Gemma always brought the olive branch." She lovingly cared for the needs, both spiritual and physical, of her family, often at the neglect of herself. She had no use for fancy clothes, and adorned herself in simple, extremely austere black dresses.

One day to please a relative, not wanting to offend him by refusing his gift, Saint Gemma Galgani wore a gold watch and a gold cross and chain when she went outdoors.

When she returned home, who should come to her but her Guardian Angel. He scolded her: "Remember, the spouse of the Crucified King should wear no ornaments but thorns and crosses." She immediately pledged never to wear nor speak of things of the world.

She went back to the severity of the clothes she had been wearing, and when she ventured out, she donned a simple black cloak to cover a shapeless black dress and a straw hat. This did not detract from her fine patrician looks, but instead enhanced them.

Her Guardian Angel stressed obedience! He would repeat over and over again: "Obedience! You must obey! You must be like a dead body; whatever is asked of you, you must obey quickly and joyfully!"

He was not above reproaching her, scolding Saint Gemma Galgani: "If you do not obey, I will not show myself to you, again."

He taught her that to disobey would always lead to sin. He told her there was no shorter road to heaven than through obedience!

©1996 Journeys of Faith (P)1996 Journeys of Faith

Beautiful testimony

This beautiful testimony is heartfelt in its narration. So simple yet so powerful. God Bless

Saint Gemma

It was a quick read that covered much of her life. It was very interesting and you learn a great deal about this Saint. It will make you interested in finding out more about her.

It was excellent!

It was good, there is a great video of this on GabiAfterHours youtube channel. Bob and Penny are awesome on doing these stories of Saints!

Moving account

The story was put together very well. Very moving and hard not to listen to.