Blessed Gianna Beretta Molla
A Woman's Life

Giuliana Pelucchi
140 pages
Pauline Books and Media
$14.95
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From the Publisher
An attractive woman.
Physician.
Mother of four.
Enthusiastic downhill skier.
Experienced mountain climber.
Opera aficionada.
Passionate for her husband.
Single-minded toward her children.
Uncompromising for her patients.

In 1962, she made a quiet, heroic choice.
In 1994, the Church proclaimed her “blessed.”

Review
The life of a modern-day saint is chronicled in the poignant testimony of those who knew Gianna Beretta Molla best: her siblings, her husband Pietro, and her beloved children. The deep love Gianna lavished on them shines forth as they attempt to recreate the life of an extraordinary woman who lived an ordinary life. From her involvement in Catholic Action to her ministry as a physician and her role as a devoted wife and mother, Gianna's life exemplified sacrificial love. In her fourth pregnancy, when the choice had to be made as to whether to save her life or the life of the baby, Gianna didn't hesitate to 'lay down her life' once again. Her deep faith and desire to do God's will permeated all she undertook.

Gianna, truly one who loved life, enjoyed mountain climbing, skiing, and painting, and was an accomplished pianist. A daily communicant her entire life, Gianna's faith guided and sustained her throughout her short time on earth. Gianna Beretta Molla was beatified by Pope John Paul II on April 24, 1994, the Year of the Family. In heartfelt tributes to their mother, her children assure that her legacy will continue.

This biography is an easy read with many family pictures enriching the story, an inspiration for all who consider themselves living ordinary lives. Gianna's sister, Sr. Virginia surmises, "Holiness, after all, consists in carrying out one's responsibilities well" - wisdom Gianna undoubtedly embraced.

Terri Nausieda is coordinator of Adult Faith Formation at St. Robert of Newminster Parish, Ada, MI.

Copyright © 1998-2007, Daniel J. Pierson.
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