St. Gianna Beretta Molla
Mother, Physician, Patron of Unborn Children
📖 Life of St. Gianna Beretta Molla
St. Gianna Beretta Molla (1922–1962) was an Italian pediatrician, wife, and mother, known for her heroic witness of faith, love, and respect for life. Born in Magenta, Italy, she was the tenth of thirteen children and from an early age cultivated a deep spirituality and dedication to prayer.
She graduated in medicine and surgery in 1949, specializing in pediatrics. Gianna saw medicine as a mission and served with generosity, especially to the poor, elderly, and children. She actively participated in Catholic Action and the Society of St. Vincent de Paul.
She married Pietro Molla in 1955 and together they formed an exemplary Christian family. Gianna was a dedicated mother of four children, harmonizing her vocation as a doctor and wife with motherhood.
During her last pregnancy, she faced a serious health problem and, to save her daughter's life, chose a procedure that put her own life at risk. Gianna gave herself totally to maternal love, saying: "If it is necessary to decide between me and the child, do not hesitate: choose the child. Save her!". She died on April 28, 1962, one week after giving birth.
🌟 Legacy of St. Gianna: Witness to the Gospel of Life
Spiritual Legacy
St. Gianna is an example of sacrificial love, courage, and defense of human dignity from conception. Her canonization in 2004 was witnessed by her husband and children, a milestone in Church history.
Model of Motherhood and Medicine
As a doctor, Gianna saw her profession as a mission from God. As a mother, she lived motherhood with joy, faith, and total dedication. Her witness inspires healthcare professionals, mothers, and all who defend life.
Miracles and Intercession
Several miracles are attributed to her intercession, including the miraculous birth of children in impossible medical situations. St. Gianna is an inspiration for pro-life centers and Catholic hospitals around the world.
📅 Feast Day
Feast of St. Gianna Beretta Molla
Liturgical Celebration
The feast of St. Gianna is celebrated on April 28, the date of her death. It is a day to pray for mothers, healthcare professionals, and the defense of life.
Traditions and Customs
Masses, novenas, and pro-life actions are promoted in her memory, especially in hospitals and maternity support centers.
🛡️ Patronage
Primary Patronages
- • Mothers: Patron of mothers and motherhood
- • Physicians: Patron of doctors and healthcare professionals
- • Unborn Children: Patron of unborn and pro-life causes
- • Families: Patron of Christian families
Special Intentions
- • Pregnancy: Intercessor for pregnant women and mothers in labor
- • High-risk Births: Intercessor in high-risk deliveries
- • Pro-Life: Defender of the dignity of life
- • Medical Ethics: Example of Christian ethics in medicine
🙏 Prayers
Prayer to St. Gianna
"St. Gianna, example of maternal love and courage, intercede for all mothers, doctors, and unborn children. Help us to defend life and to live the faith with generosity."
St. Gianna Beretta Molla, pray for us!
Short Prayer
"St. Gianna, patron of mothers and unborn, pray for us!"
Related Saints
St. Thérèse of Lisieux
The Little Flower, known for her "Little Way" of spiritual childhood.
St. Joseph
The foster father of Jesus and husband of Mary, patron of fathers and workers.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
First native-born American saint and patron of Catholic schools.