6th July - Saint Maria Goretti - Independent Catholic News

6th July - Saint Maria Goretti - Independent Catholic News: Martyr. Born in Ancona, Italy, in 1890, Maria was the eldest daughter of a peasant family, known for her cheerful and devout nature. When she was just ten her father died. Two years later, a young neighbour, Alessandro Serenelli, became obsessed with Maria and started constantly pestering her. One day he tried to rape her. When she fought him off he stabbed her several times. She was taken to the hospital, but she died the next day, after forgiving him.