ST GERARD MAJELLA, OCTOBER 16

“It is true that sometimes we find ourselves confused and weak. But there is no confusion with God, there is no weakness with God’s power, because it is certain that in our battles the divine majesty helps us with a powerful arm. And so we can be joyful and grow in strength, by accepting God’s will. And so live in most holy works for all eternity.”

From a letter of Saint Gerard, January 22, 1752

Gerard Majella was born in Muro Lucano, Italy on April 6, 1726, into a family of humble circumstances. From his parents Gerard learned the love of prayer and sacrifice. When his father died, Gerard, being the only son, had to provide for his family by working as a tailor.

At the age of fourteen he sought to enter the Capuchin friary but was rejected because of his poor health. After a short time as the domestic servant of the bishop of Lacedonia, he returned to tailoring but earned a minimal income.

In April 1749, after attending a Redemptorist mission in Muro, Gerard succeeded in getting himself accepted by the congregation. Following a trial period and a year of novitiate in the house of Deliceto, he professed religious vows on July 16, 1752.

Gerard was noted for his observance of the Redemptorist rule, and collecting money for the material needs of the community. His presence to people who were weighed down by poverty and illness was a sign of hope to them. Gerard had great empathy and trusted in the love and compassion of God.

During his few years as a lay brother in the Congregation, Gerard was remarkable for his apostolate and patience in sickness, love for the poor, deep humility in the face of false accusations, heroic obedience, spirit of penance, and constancy in prayer. He wrote numerous letters of spiritual direction. The Lord favored him with many spiritual gifts, including prophecy, the reading of people’s hearts, and the gift of miracles. He died at Materdomini on October 16, 1755.

Gerard was beatified by Leo XIII on January 29, 1893, and canonized by Saint Pius X on December 11, 1904. He is invoked as patron of mothers, especially in cases of pregnancy. Couples hoping to conceive a child also seek Saint Gerard’s intercession.

The shrine of Saint Gerard Majella is at the Basilica in Materdomini, Italy.

(1) Living Redemptorist Spirituality, Prayers, Devotions, Reflections, North American Commission for Partnership in Mission.