Saint Gianna Beretta Molla: Patroness of Mothers, Doctors, and Unborn Children

ST. GIANNA BERETTA MOLLA

Saint Gianna Beretta Molla was an Italian pediatrician and mother who gave her life for the sake of her unborn child. She is celebrated for her selfless love and commitment to both her family and her faith. Her feast day is April 28.

Saint Gianna Beretta Molla, born on October 4, 1922, in Magenta, Italy, was an extraordinary woman whose life has become a shining example of love, selflessness, and courage. From a young age, she demonstrated a strong faith and a deep desire to help others, particularly through medicine. She pursued a career as a pediatrician, using her skills to care for children and families in need.

Gianna was born into a devout Catholic family and was the 10th of 13 children. She had a strong sense of vocation, both in her professional life and in her personal relationships. After completing her medical studies, she began practicing as a pediatrician. Her work was not only a career but also a calling to serve God’s people, especially the sick and vulnerable.

In 1955, Gianna married Pietro Molla, and together they had four children. During her pregnancies, Gianna faced significant challenges, but her deep faith and devotion to her family remained unwavering. During her fourth pregnancy in 1961, she was diagnosed with a tumor in her uterus that threatened both her life and that of her unborn child. Despite being advised to undergo a life-saving abortion or hysterectomy, she chose to carry her child to term, even though it meant putting her own life at risk.

Her decision was one of extraordinary love and faith. Saint Gianna Beretta Molla’s willingness to sacrifice her own life for her unborn child is a powerful testimony to the sanctity of life and the depth of her maternal love. On April 21, 1962, she gave birth to a healthy daughter, Gianna Emanuela, but Gianna’s health deteriorated rapidly after childbirth. She died a week later, on April 28, 1962, just days after the birth of her child.

Saint Gianna’s story has inspired countless people around the world. Her commitment to both her faith and her family led Pope John Paul II to declare her blessed in 1994, and she was canonized a saint on May 16, 2004. She is considered the patron saint of mothers, unborn children, and those who work in the medical field.

Her feast day is celebrated on April 28, the anniversary of her death. Gianna's life and legacy continue to inspire those who are committed to living out their faith through acts of love and self-sacrifice. Her willingness to give everything for the life of her child reflects her deep understanding of the sanctity of life and the importance of living in accordance with God’s will.

Feast Day

28-4-

Birth Date

4-10-1922

Died Date

28-4-1962

Canonised Date

16-5-2004

Mesero, Italy (In the Church of Saint Stephen)

Saint Gianna Beretta Molla, beloved mother and doctor, you lived your life with courage, faith, and love. Intercede for us, that we may embrace the will of God with the same trust and dedication you did. Help us to be strong in our responsibilities, to love and care for others, and to protect the sanctity of life. May your example guide us in our daily lives and inspire us to live with charity and selflessness. Pray for us, Saint Gianna, that we may grow in holiness and love for God. Amen.
ST. GIANNA BERETTA MOLLA

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ST. GIANNA BERETTA MOLLA

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