By 
A Reflection on Saint Maria Goretti
Most of us are probably familiar with Saint Maria Goretti. She was hardly more than a girl when she died for chastity rather than giving in to her attacker. She modeled Christ on her death bed as she forgave the troubled man who attacked her and ultimately took her life. Although this poor man took her life in this world, no one could take her everlasting life in Jesus Christ, and as a woman of faith she gives great example for our troubled times.
It is sad that faith seems to be so weak for so many in these times. We are probably all tempted to ask, “Are there young women (and men) like Maria in the world today”? Let us be assured that there are and let us never forget to support them. At the same time, we have to face the reality that too many young people, and truly people of every age are caught up in foolishness and focused only on this world in ways that ultimately brings great devastation.
Let us pray that the confusion that so many, young, and old, are experiencing may be diminished by the clarity and faith of Saint Maria. Her faith and her commitment to Jesus Christ as her Lord was so strong and clear that she was able to defend her chastity to the death. May she inspire those who have too easily relinquished their chastity to trust in God’s abundant mercy. If only they will repent of their sins against chastity the Lord will welcome them into His loving embrace and allow their iniquities to be washed in His Precious Blood. Saint Maria is a powerful reminder that mercy without heartfelt repentance is meaningless. She died in a spirit of humble repentance for the sins of her attacker and ultimately gave her life because she was not willing to allow her body to be defiled sinfully.
Saint Maria Goretti, pray for us!
Joseph Strickland
Bishop Joseph E. Strickland was named the fourth bishop of Tyler in September of 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI. Prior to being named bishop, he served a number of roles in the diocese, including vicar general, judicial vicar, and pastor of the Cathedral parish. He was ordained to the priesthood in 1985. 